Rewards to Treating Pre-Op Period as a Gift (Long)

     I began this lifestyle change at 5'4", 271 pounds in January. I learned as much as I could, and began to practice everything into permanent habits for healthy living. I started taking multi-vitamins, not drinking before, during, or after meals, and logging my lean & green meals in MFP. I have severe arthritis in my knees, and started water aerobics and lap swimming to get my cardio in. I detoxified from sugar and simple carbs. I stopped alcohol and dramatically decreased caffeine. I had a few off plan moments, but learned to get back on plan as quickly as possible, and more on.

     By mid-April, I had lost 38 pounds and was sitting on a BMI of 40, with no co-morbidities. My insurance requires that I be at or above a BMI of 40, as documented at pre-admissions testing. I considered just continuing on and doing it on my own... but then realized that I've regained 100+ pounds twice doing it "my way" and that I needed the VSG and associated metabolism re-set to make my new healthy lifestyle permanent.

     My surgeon worked with me, and moved my 05/21 pre-admissions testing for VSG 05/27 up a week to 05/14. I worked with the NUT to shift to a 1700-2000 calorie diet to maintain. I worked on being patient and not so driven by the scale. I had to eat steel cut oatmeal and drink most of my water to "make weight", but I did it.  My surgeon is allowing me to resume my lean & green 1200 calorie plan and do one day of full liquid prior to surgery because he is confident I will resume losing and gladly forfeit "food funerals".

     I appreciate having this pre-op time to get my head in the game and to develop some of the healthy habits my long term success will depend upon.  I thank all of the no-nonsense Veterans who helped me with my learning curve by sharing their experiences.

Wow you've done extremely well losing the weight. When is your surgery date? I agree with detoxing from sugar and simple carbs. I am like you, I had no co-morbidities with a BMI of 41 and have lost 3 pounds. Not alot but I am making progress! Have you done any of your lab work, EkG, or endoscopy? Sounds like your on you way to the losers bench! Keep up the good work!

A hearty CONGRATULATIONS on your committment and determination to make it work.  You sound like you are well prepared and on your way to huge success.  Good luck and do keep us informed.  

You have a great attitude, and I think you will have great success with the VSG.  I also used my pre-op time to practice eating slower, eating smaller meals, avoiding liquids around mealtimes, etc.  I was so glad I did. 

Best of luck with your surgery and weight loss journey.  I'll save you a spot on the loser's bench (smile)

Carol