Jenny R
If you only knew...
Dec 17, 2008
Post from TMB a pre-op asked about what you wish you only knew prior to surgery. Here's what I shared.
http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/TX/a,messageboard/board_id,4845/cat_id,4445/topic_id,3812342/action,replies/
Is there anything you wish you would have known/done prior to surgery that would have made you experience better, easier, etc?
* Don't assume you will be cured of your obesity.
* Don't think once you've work out some of your food issues others won't arise to take the place of ones you've already faced head on.
* Don't assume you won't struggle with wanting to eat something naughty ever again in your life.
* Do research and see what kind of lifestyle suits you best - one of moderation versus one of absolute nevers.
* If you choose a moderated lifestyle be prepared to call yourself out if moderation turns from once in a while thing to once a day thing.
* Do find support groups and cling to them vehemently. People who know where you're coming from will be better able to "hear" your struggle versus someone who's never been here.
* Be prepared to fall flat on your face. Be prepared to claw yourself back to a standing position, only to fall back down, breaking a nail and scratching your cheek on the way down while you're at it - only to claw your way back up once again. Choosing to stay down after the last fall will only make it harder to get back up. So never give up!
* Don't take supplementation lightly. WLS is about getting healthier - not trading up malnutrition for a better body. Stay on top of your vitamins and bloodwork.
* Choose to stay away from trigger foods if you can identify them. If you can't practice moderation with something back away from it and stay away (and stay open to your actions always. Notice new habits that aren't normal and choose to face them head on before they become commonplace.)
* Learn about optimal nutrition and how your body works optimally. Understand fiber and protein and healthy fats and carbs. Learn to make your body work for you instead of against you. It's a lot bigger then just avoiding Doritos and Oreos just cause they're Doritos and Oreos IMO.
* Listen to your body very closely as time goes on. Understand what makes you hungry after eating it. If pot roast doesn't stick with you for very long then the next time you eat it pair it with a salad or more veggies.
* Don't freak out when you're able to eat more and feel like you wonder if you've ever had surgery. It's normal to be able to eat more. Just follow the rules of protein first, complex carbs second, etc.
* Get used to not drinking with meals for life. That is an absolute never do ever again IMO.
* Love yourself - no matter what. Love your excess skin that used to be filled with debilitating fat (it can be removed some day down the line if you want). Love your actions - even if they're wrong. Love your brain and crazy thinking you might have. Loving yourself no matter what you face will make the action of sticking with the rules much easier even if you make some questionable choices. NO you're not a piece of dirt if you screw up. You're human. Now back on the ball cause you're worth it! And if you believe you're worth it then it doesn't take too long to get your head back into the game.
* Believe you will succeed. Choose a goal that's maintainable. Don't let regain get into the double digits of pounds. Be consistent. Be accountable. Be strong. And believe you will do whatever you need to do for life to forever remain successful.
