Ready 4 Changes

FYI.. I blend the Beans in bean with bacon Soup for the extra Protein.. funny how I used to grab a pizza or bag doritos... now I am thrilled with bean with a couple of Tablespoons of bean with bacon soup! Times they are a changin'

Hi All! October 21 surgery date, down 20 pounds since pre-surgery diet. Seeing some differences in dietary phases... I am still on full liquids but notice many people around same surgery date have moved onto soft and mushy.. I have "cheated" by having a few (2 tablespoons at a sitting) of mashed potatoes and gravy, and have incorporated 2 tablespoons of yogurt in the morning as well. Not that I am limiting myself to 2.. thats just what fills me up... I get most satisfaction from the broth of cream of potato and bean with bacon broth. Trying to incorporate a little of variety instead of crust chicken and beef broth. I have noticed a stall in my weight loss, do I need to add more Water daily to jump start again? I can not add more Protein... I feel pretty good that Im drinking almost 2 premier Protein shakes in daily approx 60 grams of protein. G2 has been my go to liquid more than the water.. It sounds weird, but I don't love water, or flavored water. Have made caffeine free ice tea... much easier for me to drink. I bought Premier Protein shakes at Sam's chocolate I add a banana in the morning, strawberry cream I add frozen (no sugar added) strawberries in the afternoon. Helps by having a bit of a routine to get in all in. If anyone has food tips and tricks, what works well, what doesn't... it would be great if we all could share:) Glad we are all in this together its nice.

If I were you I would definitely take a friend or family member. Travel in itself can be draining.. luggage, airport, taxi, etc... let alone after major surgery. Although I did not have significant pain, I was very nauseated and overall weak for several days. I am exactly two weeks post op today and feel good now in the mornings, but still get tired by mid afternoon. Your fears are valid, however you are in the right spot for support. We have all been where you are now, and are a few steps ahead of you. Although I don't want you to be "afraid" of the upcoming surgery, it is a significant procedure and I don't want you to underestimate the need for physical and mental support right after, it does take a toll on your body for a bit. But for me... it is certainly worth it. Good luck to you Blessings.

You are just in the first few hours of post op. You may not be feeling great and may have concerns or second thoughts. The fear is normal. Don't let yourself get stressed out. Its a process. Accept you are going to have a few rough days, followed by weeks of learning. Soon.. you will see results and be glad to made the decision. Prayers for good health Blessings.

I am two weeks post op... your fears are normal. You are exactly where you need to be... asking and sharing with people who have been exactly in your shoes. Education is power... I personally made the decision to move forward with the GS because the health issues I was afraid I was facing far outweighed the risks on the surgery for me. Good luck in your decision making process. Remember, one way or another, the decision has to be yours... this is your life, your desire to change, your health. Blessings.

My Dr. Also said as soon as I feel up to it. (He didn't mention my husband may be up to it.. before I was even considering it...) I am 2 weeks out... and the last few days my husband and I have had sex twice. Heading into TMI area... but being honest... first time... I was a little nervous, afraid he might hurt me with too much weight on my abdomen, so I held his body up with my hands a little... Second time, I was on top, so no pain or pressure on my stomach. Just a thought ladies and gents... kinda private and embarrassing,.. but a real question deserves a real answer. We didn't go through all this so our spouses and significant others wouldn't want us... this is a good thing. Its nice to be loved, just be careful.

NO Ibuprofen, NO Aleve. Call your DR for recommendation. They will probably suggest Tylenol.

G2 Gatorade was my go to drink for hydration... refreshing and not thick. I bought premier Protein shakes vanilla ( I blend in frozen,,, no sugar added strawberries) in the chocolate I blend in a banana . I will be two weeks post op- tomorrow. Key is small sips at a time, stop when you are full, alternate between shake and gatorade. You MUST stay hydrated... stay tough kiddo... dig deep for strength to push yourself. You did not so all of this to give up and end in the hospital. I have also bought chicken noodle and vegetable Soup to drink the broth... it tastes better than the plain broth... (no chunks unless blended) . Pour the broth in a coffee cup sip ... The flavor and warmth is a nice change from the cold Protein Shakes. You can do this... every day you will tolerate a little more liquid, and you will gain more strength. Make sure you are taking your multi Vitamin and B12. Good luck... don't give up.. it'll all be worth it Blessings

AND GENTS!

Stay strong ladies!!! We got this!

Congratulations on your decision towards a healthier life! You are not alone... we are all out here supporting you! Blessings!

I think anytime you are concerned.. you should call. If for nothing else, peace of mind and suggestions. I am anxious to see your progress. Stay calm... carry on Congratulations on your commitment! Blessings for a pain free day

My surgery is tomorrow. I am sure I will be in your shoes soon. However, I have read a lot from others who do indicate a bit of anxiety after the surgery. More like a buyers remorse.. "what have I done to myself" fear. It does seem to be common. The anxiety I will assume is related to the "unknown". I have confidence in you (and myself) that the fear will dissipate with understanding and a routine you we get used too. Stay online.. keep talking to people who are ahead of you in the process. Knowledge is power. It can calm you through the storm. We have tough challenges ahead of us and a severe learning curve. I do believe the pros out way the cons.. stay strong, don't give in to your anxiety. Talk and (walk) your way through it. I believe there is light at the end of the tunnel for us both Blessings.

Mind over matter.... Get your thoughts in order. You are worth the changes coming! Its not what you are losing... its what you will be gaining! I am not talking pounds... Im talking healthier lifestye! You are here like I am ... because you are overweight and not healthy. We deserve better. You deserve better. You have to get your thoughts right. No one is doing this TO YOU... You are doing this FOR YOU... dig deep, find the commitment and determination to get through it. YOU Will be happier and healthier IF you really want this. You are not alone. We all struggle or we wouldn't be here talking to strangers. My surgery is tomorrow... I have to remind myself every day why I am doing this... I want a better future for myself. Have faith in yourself. You can do this. Blessings.

Tomorrow is the BIG DAY! The pre-op diet... not great, I'm not going to lie. But I can do anything for a few days! It will be worth it! I am actually not that hungry... My body is accepting the changes, I know that will help me during the post-op as well. I prepared meals for my son and husband this week for when I would be in the hospital and recovering. A little tough, yes... but I am the one doing this ... not them, so they should not have to resort to take - out while I'm recovering. I feel like this is my opportunity to change the way we all move forward. A healthier mom, a healthier household I Have lost weight the last few weeks. down to 175 on my own. It does not make me question my decision... I have gained and lost so many times, I know that taking this drastic measure will help me maintain my weight and make me healthier in the long run. Surprisingly, I'm not nervous today.. I am getting myself ready for the hospital and I feel very content with my decision. I fear more for my future health if I do not go forward with the surgery. I am 45 with 3 children. When I look back at my mother when she was 45... she was healthier than I am today. Now, my mother is obese. My mother has type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension, joint pain, and back trouble resulting in surgery. She has trouble walking, and gets winded just walking in from the car. I do not want to become my mother. I see my future in her without the help of the gastric sleeve. Some people say I should not be having the surgery with a lower BMI and my current weight. Keep in mind, I have been much heavier, and BMI much higher.. I have lost 50 lbs on my own, prior to considering the surgery. In my mind I needed to "earn" it through my commitment to change. I am ready. I need help to maintain. I'm moving forward. Wish me luck. You all have inspired me! Although we are "anonymous"... Its nice to know we are not alone. I will keep you posted Blessings