1. Love~Peace not Hate~ We all want to think our surgery is the BEST!!! Does RNY trump Lap Band? How about the DS? I wonder at times if people who are arguing how much better their surgery is, instead of arguing could we learn about the others? Can we slow down and stop selling our own procedure long enough to listen and hear what the other person is saying. We all have wisdom to contribute. Everyone no matter what surgery and no matter where you are in your journey.
2. No Drinking with Meals~ Yes, our surgeons told us from day one… DO NOT DRINK WITH MEALS! This was a lifetime commitment. Rest assured he was including alcohol in this mix. So when the meal begins we are to step away from the glass. Some think this will stretch the pouch, but in reality it pushes the food out of the pouch prematurely and this can lead to stoma enlargement. It can also case you to vomit when the food in your pouch becomes a slurry with the drink. Drinking alcohol with meals, is BIG time added calories and also a big risk for transfer addictions. Drinking with meals increases risk of weight gain.
3.Do you ask the mirror who is in the reflection?~ we tend to have body dysmorphia after bariatric surgery. Even after 100 pounds are gone we still look in the mirror and see the “fat person”. This is hard to change overnight. Just like there is phantom pain with a amputation, the phantom emotions are still there with sudden weight loss. Give yourself time, and be kind to your reflection. This could take some time of going within the self to explore “why we ate to the point of obesity” explore with kindness and compassion.
4.~Protein~ Everyone’s surgeon has different guidelines. Stay in communication with your surgeon here. Do they want you eating small frequent meals, or 3 regular meals a day? Do they recommend protein shakes? Remember what you do with your aftercare is your choice. Don’t go through surgery and the post op life with rose colored glasses on.
5. Holy Smoke~ There is no holy smoke, smoking is bad for the pouch! It can cause ulcers. Again, it is always about choice, but be informed. Many surgeons won’t even do surgery until they are SURE you have put the pack down! If you want to burn something burn calories..it’s much better for you.
6. Eat.Write.Move~ Eating a balance diet, keeping a food journal and exercising will bring balance into your life! Before you know you will be in love with the results and Your Life Balance will be in tune!
7.A Little T~Talk~ Most of us thought we became obese because we love to eat! I know I said that. In reality I had issues…anger and fear tied in with some shame and guilt. These emotions can cover any ounce of light one has. I did not start therapy until I was 5 years post op, I recommend therapy for everyone considering the surgery. There are so many changes that occur and it’s good to have someone you trust, and feel safe in their office to share your feelings and drop a load as the weight drops off.
8. Water~ It’s a glorious thing. The weight loss itself puts a strain on the liver and kidneys. There is a lot of toxic release in breaking down the adipose tissue. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, to flush the toxins from your body and it also helps keep you regulated. Flow like water…
True Transformation occurs at the level of Mind~Body~Soul…. These three things are the keys to your inner wisdom and your inner strength!! Unlock the door and find peace , harmony and balance in your life.
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