Advance Planning and Preparing Are the Key

     It only took me 60 years to figure this out, but advance planning and preparation are the key to a healthy lifestyle.  I spent the five months prior to VSG planning and preparing for my new life as a sleeved lady. I detoxed from sugar and simple carbs. I increased water intake and didn't drink prior to, during and after meals.  I practiced smaller bites and CHEWING. I transitioned to "lean and green" and learned as much as I could about the post surgery stages of eating. I stocked my kitchen and collected recipes. Looking back, I invested significant time and thought transitioning to my new, healthy life.  I was able to lose a significant amount of weight prior to my VSG 05/27/15, and I  have been steadily building on that success since.

     As I near my goal (my primary care says I can stop any time), it suddenly occurred to me that maintenance is the part of the process I've always struggled with. In the past, I've "finished" my diets and dropped into a black hole of the unknown. Based on my experience planning and preparing for surgery, it only makes sense that I would invest the same time and energy planning and preparing for maintenance.  I want it to be a smooth transition, building upon the changes I have already made.  So, I am working on a transition plan, preparing questions for my six month check up in November, reading as much as possible.  There is a tremendous amount of information on this site and on My Fitness Pal.  I am grateful for the knowledge and experience you all share.  I am committed to making sure that I maintain the healthy body I am working to achieve.

I was also in my 60's when I had my sleeve.  And I also did a lot of prep for my new life style.  The transition to maintenance is not as well defined, at least in my program.  I was terrified that I would regain the weight as I have after a life-time of failed diets.

What I found worked for me is keeping the attitude that maintenance is not "being done" with the diet.  It is just another plan with a few more calories and a little more flexibility.   Obesity is a disease.  The sleeve is a treatment but not a cure.  I am going to have to manage the obesity for the rest of my life.  The sleeve helps me do this. 

Please keep me posted as you transition to maintenance.  I think we all need lots of support in this important milestone in our process.

best wishes,

Carol

Wow, I wish your attitude could be jarred and passed around to those in need! Great job!!