Icelandgirl

I *really* appreciate everyone's thoughts! It is really affirming a lot of the feelings I have been having the past few days. One of the reasons I think I was feeling so emotional about it is connected to it being winter in the middle of the pandemic. I really enjoy cooking, and with all the isolation and every day feeling like the next, I'm realizing that planning meals has been a big part of my day. I also really like cooking for my family (definitely a "love language" for me!!!). When I first talked to my primary care doc about the possibility of surgery, she said that she thinks that loving to cook will ultimately be an asset to me. I think I need a plan for the next few months that is more real food. I enjoy cooking healthy meals with fresh ingredients. And I have had success losing weight with WW in the past this way (trouble is always keeping it off!). You have all made me feel stronger about advocating for this with the doctor. Even if it takes 3-4 months instead of 2, I need to do it in a way that I feel good about.

I'm at the beginning of this process. I had my first appointment with the doctor on Friday, and he outlined the pre-op diet he wants me to start immediately. In this clinic, they require people to lose 10% of their overall weight before surgery, and he said he expects it to take about 2 months. I was prepared for a few weeks of a really restrictive diet, but not 2+ months. Anyone else started their journey this way? Here's what he wants me to eat: 2 protein shakes (1/2 scoop, made with 8 oz almond milk) 2 protein bars Dinner of 10 forkfuls of protein, 10 forkfuls of veggies

I'm 5'1" and 220 lbs... There are no other insurance requirements for me, just the policy of his clinic. He'd like me to lose 20-25 lbs before surgery.