Kpw

When I was making my decision for surgery, I did not talk about it with anyone but my husband. It took me (us) over 6 months to make the decision to go ahead with surgery. Once I made the decision I only told my son-26, daughter-28, sister and two close friends. I told them that I had made the decision, wanted to let them know and I was open to any and all questions but I was not asking their opinion. Everyone of them was very supportive. My mother, who is 93 years old and I former RN, I waited until 5 days before my scheduled surgery to tell her I was having the surgery. I was worried about her stress if I told her too soon and also didn't want to have any push back from her because she was fearful of what might happen. In my opinion, this is where most of the unsolicited opinions come from, their fear for you. Well, surprise to me, my Mom was completely positive and supportive. Her only question was did I do my research on the surgeon. After the surgery, I told anyone I wanted. I really don't care what they think, I just didn't want anyone to make me more nervous than I already was about the surgery before hand. I am 4 months out of surgery, and when anyone comments on how much weight I've lost and asks me what I am doing, I am always honest. I have only ever had one negative comment and that was "I know someone who had the surgery and gained all the weight back." Even that comment really just serves as a reality check to me on how this isn't an easy way out and I have to stick to my plan as this is a permanent life change for me. Just FYI, people can surprise you. Maybe because I told them upfront that my decision had been made and I was telling them because I trusted that they will be supportive. Good luck!

Diane, I am now 4 months out. In the beginning I had to get most of my protein in shakes, I had 2 a day to get my required protein in at first. I would also add liquid (pasteurized) egg whites to my shakes to get more protein. Now I still have a protein shake every morning for breakfast. I also eat one protein bar a day. I know how hard it is to hit 1000 calories, but you will get there. I always eat protein first, followed by vegetables (rarely do I have room for fruit or carbs) and I have to eat 5 times a day. I eat mostly chicken, ground turkey, lobster (my secret treat), fish, egg whites and shrimp for protein. I don't tolerate beef and being lactose intolerant cheese products are out for me but I know others eat cheese sticks as a protein source. Other than the shake and the bar, I cook mostly whole foods and use olive oil for cooking. (I used Pam before, but I need the calories so I just use the oil.) Good luck and let me know how your doing. Karen

You were about the same starting weight and height as I was when I started this journey. I, too, lose very slowly. On average, I lose 1-2 pounds a week and lost very little right after surgery. I am now 4 months out and only 25 lbs left to my goal! Here is what I have discovered: I DO NOT LOSE if my calories stay under 1000. I DO NOT LOSE if my protein intake is not sufficient (between 60 -80 grams). As long as I make the concerted effort to stay over 1000 calories and maintain my protein, I will steadily lose. It was not as fast as I expected, but my doctor tells me that when you have more to lose it comes off faster. I noticed when you lose slow that it gives your body better ability to adjust. The other thing that has helped me is not comparing my weight loss to others, but instead take photos of myself every month so I can see the difference the weight loss has made for me. Don't lose faith!