8 days post surgery and just booked a family vacation to an all inclusive in Mexico. How exciting to not feel horrified by the idea of a swimsuit! I think it will be the perfect celebration of the huge life changes I'm making now!

So, now for the questions. I will be 3 months post op when we travel. My husband has expressed concern that it might be really tough for me to be in that all you can eat environment. I guess it might be, but I also wonder if there might also me some benefits. For example, I will be able to get food anytime I want it. Knowing my past relationship with food, this is a good thing. I'm less likely to over indulge if I know I could always come back for more in a couple hours if I want. That way, I won't feel like I need to eat much at each sitting. I don't know, maybe I'm overthinking it.

Anyway, any tips for success at an AI? Any cautions?

I'll plan to use the fitness center while there, and I don't mind not having alcohol. That's never been a big draw for me anyway.

Thanks,

Christi

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

This is actually a great danger. Grazing is what kills most of the success from WLS people (well and drinking empty calories). Please try to be mindful of your eating (log). But it could also be great. I am starting to learn that just because they set up a sandwich bar, doesn't mean I can't turn it into MY salad bar.

I've never been but I'm sure there are a fair amount of good options to eat. Just be mindful and enjoy!

You are going to feel so sick if you eat too much so I don't think that will be too big of an issue. I went on a cruise two weeks pre op and only gained ONE POUND. I counted my calories and went walking every single day. It was annoying getting up hours before everyone but it paid off greatly. That was pre surgery

Sent from my XT1585 using the BariatricPal App

Love all inclusive in Mexico... I have found that being at the pool and the beach you don't really think about eating... Last resort I went to didn't allow eating at the pool nor were their any buffets, all meals were served by waiter serve. You sound like you have a great support system, go and enjoy!!! Mexico is wonderful and remember a small tip goes a long way!!!

Be sure to get to visit the spa at the resort too

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Edited May 19, 201610 yr by nyteacher125

I'm getting sleeved on July, and have a cruise booked for the week of Thanksgiving. I am having those same concerns myself.

Sent from my SM-G900V using the BariatricPal App

I went on a cruise just 6 weeks after my procedure. Everything was just fine. Just order EXACTLY what you want- no more- no less. They will bring it to you looking beautiful and you'll be eating right along everyone else. You really don't need any explanations because it is amazing that thin people typically eat like this!

I am dating a wonderful man now and he has never had a weight problem. His refrigerator has exactly the same things in it that mine does. We go out to eat all the time and just order really healthy options. it is almost a non-issue now.

You will do great! Have fun!

Such good suggestions! It's going to be HOT when we go (August), so I think the beverages will be key. I usually would drink sodas throughout the day, occasional Water and occasional slushy type drink. So, I guess water and tea it is. I thought about bringing along some Protein drink mixes to stir into skim milk, but ugh, I'm already sick of those.

The spa is high on the list! For me, this week is about pampering, not food, and I'll probably continuously stress that point in my mind. My children get to enjoy the kids club while I get massages, snorkel, and lay on the beach and read. Perhaps the new and improved me will even try something more physical. Not sure if I'll be up for kite surfing or SUP, but I'd definitely enjoy a little sea kayaking.

My mantras for the week:

1. Be cautious of grazing

2. There are tons of healthy food and drink options too

3. Be active

4. It's about pampering myself, not about food

5. Sashimi!!!!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Anyway, any tips for success at an AI? Any cautions?

I'll plan to use the fitness center while there,

You may be over-focusing on food as a main attraction. Think more about everything else that will be available to you. I'm glad you mentioned the fitness center. Make a list of other activities that are on the menu. Plan to be bold by trying something you've never done but have fantasized. The resort may well offer lessons for it. The trip is about a change of scenery and new experiences. There's nothing new about eating.

Have a great time!

Swim with dolphins! Great experience

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Yes, to sashimi!

Yes to hydration!

Yes to fresh veggies and a little fruit.

Yes to dancing, swimming, walking, moving, moving, moving!

And a big ole yes to the spa!

I have been to 3 AI resorts in Mexico since my surgery in August. I have really had no issues at all. Plan to drink plenty of water, since it is hot and you can dehydrate much easier than you think. Eating is never a issue. The resorts usually serve smaller portions if there are sit down meals, since the have multiple courses. There is multiple protein options at all meals, so it is easy to find something. Once I get my plate, I portion out what I want to eat (i.e. cut the protein portion in to what I can eat). At first the waiters are concerned the first day that you don't like anything, but after that they get use to you leaving food on your plate and don't say anything. Personally, I get so caught up in the beauty of the place and being able to sit back and relax by the pool that I forget to eat as much as I should. My husband has to remind me that it is time to eat. Go enjoy! Have a great time!

I just went to an all inclusive in Cancun a few weeks ago. It was awesome. It was mostly buffet during the day with sit down options if you preferred.

I drank far too much vodka. I drank far too many beers and I had a blast.

As far as food, my restriction is great so I do graze more than I should. That said, the buffets were gorgeous and I ate better and more decadently than I do at home. Chunks of gorgeous cheese. Freshly grilled salmon, sashimi, pork carnitas, pickled cactus, grilled veggies, omelets, filet mignon, cerviche, olives...

I tasted a dessert or two. I ate a bit of fruit but not much. I was so full of the yummy stuff above, I didn't touch bread, Pasta, rice or any other starchy fillers. Didn't need to.

Our resort was huge so I easily logged 20K+ steps a day without even finding the fitness facility. I danced all night, swam all day, paddle boarded (fell a lot -- the Water was choppy) and had a blast.

I came home to a 1 pound gain after my week away, which turned into a 4 pound loss the day after. I assume that was water retention from the long flights.

Eat, drink, enjoy. Just eat quality Protein and skip the junk. It's more filling, more satisfying and MUCH more decadent. Get your money's worth!

Yay! I love hearing the success stories from those who've gone since surgery. It's making me even more excited, and definitely easing my worries. Last time I went to one, I was 255 pounds and feeling miserable. I was hot and sweaty and had to take my CPAP with me. Walking around Chichen Itza was a nightmare on my big out of shape body. I'll still won't be at goal by the time we leave, but I can't wait to see what a difference the weight loss makes!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App