Bariatric Surgery Before and After

It has been almost a year and a half since I began my bariatric surgery journey. I attended my first informational meeting with my husband, half-thinking it would never actually happen. After we left, I felt a spark of motivation and decided it was time to take my life back and truly commit to this journey.

The first six months were spent preparing for bariatric surgery, and then came the big day. It has now been almost 10 months since my surgery, and during that time I’ve gathered tips that have helped me stay focused and on track. These tips carry me through the days when I feel like giving up, and I’ve learned that by sticking with them, the weight will continue to come off.

Bariatric Surgery Before and After

Bariatric Surgery Tips For Successful Weight Loss

 My Bariatric Surgery Before and After Story

Post Bariatric Surgery Tips

1. Drink at least 8 glasses of Water. I find this is easily accomplished with these tips on drinking water to help lose weight.

2. Consume your Recommended Minimum Protein Amount. My favorite way to sneak in extra protein when I didn’t feel like eating was with Premier Protein High Protein Shakes. They are portable so I didn’t have to worry about carrying around extra things with me.

3. Get active and stay active. Start with small distances and gradually increase how far you go each day. Don’t take on more than you can handle, but make an effort to try new activities when you’re able.

4. Keep a food and drink log. In the beginning, you’ll start with protein shakes and slowly add foods back in. Logging what you eat and drink helps ensure you’re getting enough of the right nutrients.

5. Find and attend a local support group. This was something I personally struggled with, but I know that attending a support group helps keep me accountable. Support groups are also a great way to learn about new products, get recipe ideas, and talk with people who are going through or have already gone through the same journey.

6. Identify your triggers. If you know you can’t go to a fast-food place and order a healthy option, don’t go. If eating out with friends makes you crave dessert, suggest ordering in or ask them to stop for dessert elsewhere on the way home. Pay attention to what makes you want to slip and avoid those situations until you feel more in control. This is a lifestyle change, and over time, some things will naturally become less important as you get healthier.

7. Keep your appointments. Even if you don’t think you’ve lost weight, attend all appointments with your surgeon, medical providers, and dietitians. They can help identify changes in your body and address any concerns early on.

8. Be honest. People can only help you if you tell them the truth. Don’t say what you think they want to hear, share what’s really going on. Be honest with yourself, too. The weight didn’t come on in a few days, weeks, or even months, and it won’t come off that quickly either.

9. Use bariatric surgery as a starting point. Think of surgery as a fresh start for your eating habits. Don’t fall back into old patterns, or nothing will change. Make healthy choices and stick with them, knowing you’re building a better lifestyle.

10. Take ownership and be proud. You’ve done something amazing for yourself, so accept the compliments that come your way. When you stumble, acknowledge it, get back up, and start again. Don’t belittle yourself, be proud of how far you’ve come and commit to moving forward.

These are the post-bariatric surgery tips I’ve found most helpful. I’m proud to say that as of today, I’m 80 pounds lighter than I was before surgery. I’ve had slips along the way, but I remind myself daily to get back up and keep going. My family’s support helps me take this journey one day at a time. I still have 30 pounds to go, and I know it will take longer than the first 30, but I’m determined to keep moving forward and hope to one day share that I’ve reached my goal.

Bariatric Surgery Before and After Photos

For more information check out  Why I had the Gastric Sleeve for my Bariatric Surgery! Read what I learned after my Gastric Sleeve that I wished I knew before.

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