Worried about getting a bypass :(

Thank you Ronnie,

I am glad to hear that I wasn't the only one with buyers remorse. I didn't experience pain after surgery, just a little discomfort, didn't take any pain killers once I was home, and was only in the hospital overnight. But more than physical discomfort there is a level of psychological afterthought as well. Something I was not prepared for, but overcame gradually with the help of my family.

I too am a foodie, and my family likes to get together at the dinner table every evening, to eat and catch up on our day. The first week after my bypass, I didn't even sit at the dinner table, so I felt my life, as I knew it, changing drastically. But now, I've gone back to the table, with my small plate, and realized, life is so much more than food, it's about family.

I did take a photo prior to surgery, and my daughter has been taking a photo of me every 2 weeks. It's amazing how I've already had to start changing sizes.

Thank you for replying, I appreciate you reaching out to me. I hope you don't mind if I reach out, now and then, to ask for advice. I promise I won't overwhelm you.

Take care,

Diane

I am happy you are finding your way.

Using a small plate is a great idea!

By using a small plate (that matches the larger one of your family, if possible) will make it look as if you are having a meal the size of others.

As you know, even if you wanted to, there is no way you could eat the same quantity (and probably the same food items) as the others without getting ill.

I am a VERY visual eater so small plates have worked wonders.

In my Pre-WLS days , when I would 'diet', I'd rather eat a mini bagel than half a regular size. Whole was better than half in my mind's eye. Or, I'd slice the full size into 3 or 4 pieces and eat the top and bottom only.

There's one more thing I found worked, although many friwn at it...if I wanted something that someone else had, I'd take 1 small bite. Believe it or not, it satisfied me.

Anyway, feel free to contact me whenever and as often you like.

Have a g.reat day!

Ronnie

Using a small plate has been great for me. It has brought me back to the table.

I am only 6 weeks out, but I also taste a small bite of just about anything that attracts my attention. It satisfies my palate without having a serving. One bite is more than enough. Some people may frown upon this practice, but it works for me, and I'm dancing to the beat of my own drum.

What I love best about this surgery is that there is automatic portion control. In the past, I had issues with portion control, and now it's built in, so that's great. I measure my food, but I can determine when my pouch is full.

Thanks, have a great day too!

Hi!

I'm happy that you have found what works. I mentioned in another post that I do the small plate and 'taste', too.

Just be careful what dance you dance. The first year is very forgiving, but after that, not so much. Last thing you want to do is to slip into the bad habits that got us here in the first place.

A warning...Many people think they WILL NEVER gi back, statistics tell us differently.

Have a great day!

Ronnie

I will keep that in mind. I heard that the first year is a gift, but after this honeymoon period, it is not as easy to lose weight.

I am very appreciative for all your great advice!

Thank you!

Diane

You are very welcome!

Minor correction: biotin will not prevent hair loss due to telogen effluvia. It may help the hair grow back faster, but it won't prevent the thinning in the first place :)

Thank you for the clarification!