Pre-surgery tips

As most of you know, I was where you are now a year ago. I have been so blessed, I want to share that blessing by "escorting" the Marcher 2005 group through this rebirth. Here are a few tips for what you can be doing now: 1. Start loading up on protein now. It will help you to heal. Try different protein shakes until you find one you like. Avoid high carb ones--learn to read labels now. (My personal favorite is unjury from unjury.com) 2. Get off the caffeine, tobacco, and carbonated drinks now so you won't have to deal with withdrawal at the same time you are recovering. I am a major caffiene addict and managed to avoid the headaches by cutting back to 1 cup of coffee, then mixing in 1/2 and 1/2 with decaf, then cutting it out. It only took a week. 3. Also, take pictures and measurements before surgery. There will be times when you don't see your progress later, or when the scales don't move, that you will want to refer back. Often you will lose inches when you are not losing pounds. I recommend measuring on your surgery day every month. It is funny how you will lose at different parts of your body at different times. 4. Start walking NOW. Don't wait for surgery. The better shape you are in, the lower your risk. 5. Follow your doctor's pre-surgery diet rules. It takes will power now, but it will be easier after surgery. This is not so much a test of your will-power as it is an effort to reduce risk and make your surgery recovery go smoother. 6. Try to stay busy. Everyone has attacks of nerves, especially the last 2 weeks before surgery. Focus on why you are doing this. You are not taking an unnecessary risk--you are making a choice to do something to reduce the risks to your health. You are doing the best thing that you have ever done for yourself. There will be some tough days. It is worth it!!! Joy Surgery 3/1/2004 Size 22 => Size 8

Thanks Joy that really helps alot I've copied your advice into my weight loss journal

Thank you so much for your advice. My surgery is on 3/1/05 and I am both equally excited and nervous. I would like to add to your advice also about starting vitamins/supplements as well. I have never been a vitamin taker and have started a few weeks ago and have notice a difference already. Thanks for your advice.

You are SO right! Also, I found that Hair, Skin, and Nails vitamins from GNC help with the hair issues. Sure made my nails grow too! I still lost hair at about 4 months out, but it grew back faster, and I think I lost less. When I quit them at 6 months out, it started falling out again, so I know it helped. Joy

Joy thanks for your words of encougement and ideas to prepare for surgery..They are much appreciated..I am starting to get a little nervous..just trying to keep busy..Donna 8 more days

Thank you soooooooo much for this information as I am getting nervous and excited and this will really help Janice