A Year of Later: Revisiting my Bariatric Transformation
Today marks a huge milestone. It was my last day in my Bariatric Program. I never imagined how quick this bariatric transformation would have been when I signed up for it in July 2022.
I’d like to share the lessons I have learned if given the chance to relive this transformative experience. I am not going to dwell on my negative habits that lead me here. This blog post is my way of providing an alternative experience to undergoing weight loss surgery.
Keep in mind that everyone’s bariatric journey is different. The symptoms, order, and intensity of experiences can differ significantly or might not even happen for some people. In sharing my journey, I aim to reach out to those facing similar struggles. I hope to offer comfort, provide laughter, and a sense of community.
My New Healthy Self: A Focus on Health and Happiness
If you are unfamiliar with my story and need some historical context, I recommend that you catch up by reading this post. This blog post isn’t just about the weight I’ve lost; instead, it’s about my journey of achieving a healthier body.
Twelve months after surgery, I’ve lost approximately 38% of my total body weight. This new chapter is a lifelong commitment, and I am ready to face the challenges that a healthy body may bring. My primary focus is to maintain a healthy body weight inside and out. Furthermore, I continue to enjoy this journey as my new, healthier self.
Laying the Groundwork: Mindset, Lifestyle, and Support
Lesson 1: Seeking Professional Guidance – Getting Referred to a Weight Management Clinic or Dietician
Visiting the weight management clinic helped me reinforce healthy habits and revisit my relationship with food. Ultimately, it was the Weight Management clinic that recommended bariatric surgery as a weight-loss option.
I couldn’t deny its efficacy once I was aware of all the benefits that came with bariatric surgery. Guidance from a specialized clinic or dietician can help you make an informed decision when considering weight loss surgery.
Lesson 2: Thorough Research – Seeking Second Opinions and Informed Decision Making
I needed a second opinion after my referral to the bariatric clinic. I conducted further research to better understand the benefits and risks of bariatric surgery for weight loss. This decision wasn’t an easy one to make. It was important that I seek medically-based information that considered my health history as well.
My General Practitioner played a pivotal role in helping me see the potential benefits of undergoing bariatric surgery. I hoped that she would answer the questions I had, given my medical history.
“Let’s evaluate the odds. You are more likely to die of a heart attack because of type 2 diabetes. When it comes to bariatric surgery the risks are lower.” she said.
She continued; “As you age, the window for faster recovery with minimal complications from the surgery becomes smaller”. As much as her statement was direct, it struck a chord with me.
Eventhough I trusted my doctor, I continued to search for information. Bariatric Specialists, podcasts and former patients from the bariatric community provided me with the insight I needed.
Lesson 3: Family Involvement – Sharing Your Decision and Managing Expectations
Talking to my family about my decision was a priority, since the process would indirectly affect them. Discussing dietary changes and the recovery process throughout the weight loss surgery journey was key. They needed to know what my transition may look like. It was important for them to understand my motivation for surgery.
While they were generally supportive, some concerns and differing opinions arose regarding the risks associated with the procedure. I found myself feeling defensive when sharing the potential benefits of being free from medication and metabolic illness.
Looking back, I wish I had been better prepared to respect their views without letting them cloud my own perspective. Even the ones that love you the most may not agree with you, however like my loved ones, they will eventually support your decision. Their disapproval for the surgery stems from a lack of knowledge and not for your decision to improve your life.
Lesson 4: Financial Preparation – Saving for Added Costs and Unpaid Expenses
Budgeting for unpaid leave and the costs not covered by medical benefits or insurance was important. My budget included 2 weeks of unpaid leave and the supplements required for surgery preparation and recovery.
I took 4 weeks off from work despite my clearance to return after 2 weeks. As a precaution, taking an additional two weeks off allowed me time to heal and re-energize. Having that money to see me through that unpaid leave allowed me to concentrate on healing and recovering.
Adapting to New Bounds: Diet, Exercise, and Recovery
Lesson 5: Meal Planning and Protein Management
Plan your meals, gather the necessary kitchen tools, and carefully consider your protein intake. Feel free to consult your bariatric book if you are unsure. Even though my soft foods era was not the most exciting, having a plan in place helped immensely. A documented plan helped monitor food tolerance while consuming foods during the recovery process.
Investing in a high-quality blender is key to keeping your food options interesting during the soft foods stage. Cooking your own soup allows you to control texture and taste for easy digestion. It also allows you to control fat and salt content, which are important as you are phasing in new foods.
Remember that protein shakes aren’t always necessary if your regular diet meets your daily protein requirements (typically 60-80g). Your meal plan may include foods fortified with protein like dairy. If you are meeting your protein goals, you may not need to take protein supplements.
Lesson 6: Movement and Hydration for Recovery
Movement and hydration are essential for a successful recovery following weight loss surgery. In the days after your discharge, you will experience pain in your gut from the gas and constipation. To alleviate pain and minimize the risk of complications to blood clots, it’s crucial to move regularly. During my hospital stay, I found that hourly walks in the corridor were incredibly helpful in reducing pain.
In terms of hydration, I found it challenging to drink without experiencing discomfort. Sucking on ice chips throughout the day and night helped me stay hydrated while minimizing those achy feelings. Constipation is a common side-effect of surgery. If I had started drinking smooth moove tea from day one, it would have helped tremendously.
Lesson 7: Mental Health and Relationship Support
The bariatric journey is not just about physical changes, but also psychological ones. I saw a mental health professional to discuss psychological barriers to my weight loss journey. I had to address a dysfunctional relationship with food and calorie counting, and body dysmorphia. Regular check-ins helped me stay grounded and develop strategies to cope when challenges arise.
Fostering open and honest communication with your partner is vital to ensure they don’t feel left behind. By acknowledging and celebrating milestones together, you can strengthen your relationship and grow as a couple.
Acknowledge that this journey is like an onion. It has many layers. Having those tools to help you cope will build your resilience.
Lesson 8: Understanding Hair Loss and Regrowth
Hair loss from rapid weight loss is common, especially with bariatric patients. Research for hair loss products to help regrowth is promising but the research is inconclusive. Everyone’s experience with hair regrowth is unique and heavily dependent on their weight loss journey. Allow your body the time it needs to heal and adjust, as this may save you both money and anxiety.
Living the Bariatric Life: Expectations, Maintenance, and Well-being
Lesson 9: Savvy Shopping Strategies during Weight Loss
With rapid weight loss comes the need for new clothing and being mindful of your budget. When looking for smaller clothes during your transition phases, shop for items on sale and invest in belts. You will morph into smaller sizes very quickly and a belt will help you cinch up those pants until you need a new pair. This approach will help you adapt your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
It may be time to invest in higher-quality clothing once you’ve maintained a consistent weight for a year or two. Don’t forget to smile when you see yourself in smaller sizes trying on new clothes in the changing room. Embrace this milestone as a testament to your hard work and dedication throughout your weight loss journey.
Lesson 10: Embracing Your Unique Bariatric Transformation
Remember that your bariatric journey is unique, and it’s essential to be patient and kind to yourself. It’s normal to experience plateaus, and when they occur, it can be easy to blame yourself or feel discouraged. However, acknowledge that these moments are your body’s way of adjusting and adapting to the changes you’re experiencing.
During a plateau, don’t lose hope. Revisit your bariatric plan, adjust your exercise routine, and trust that your body will catch up to your efforts. Persistence and self-compassion are key to navigating these challenging periods. Keep in mind that you’re making lasting changes to your health, and the results will come in time.
Conclusion: Reflecting on My Bariatric Journey and the Lessons Learned
As I reflect on my bariatric journey, I’m reminded of the incredible transformation I’ve experienced both physically and mentally. Through the highs and lows, I’ve discovered invaluable lessons that have shaped my outlook on health, self-care, and personal growth.
I am not sure where I would be today, if I didn’t acknowledge my health situation and acted accordingly. Embracing my emotions, thorough research, family involvement, and savvy decision-making were integral in my health transformation. Armed with the tools and coping mechanisms I have learned; it has helped me reframe my mindset for a healthy self.
My experience with weight loss surgery is not cookie cutter. It’s essential to remain adaptable, patient, and compassionate with oneself. Hopefully my lessons may provide you insight into your own weight loss journey.
Despite any challenges, I am grateful for the progress I made and the lessons I have learned. Most of all I appreciate the dedicated support I have received from my loved ones. I’m confident that I’ll continue to thrive and grow in this exciting new chapter of my life.
In closing, here are some resources that helped me get answers when I needed them most. I hope they offer you a better understanding of the process and help you make informed decisions along the way.
Bariatric Web resources:
Bariatric Surgery – St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton (stjoes.ca)
Home – Ontario Bariatric Network
Bariatric Surgery – Obesity Canada
Weight-Loss (Bariatric) Surgery | HealthLink BC
Weight loss surgery – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Definition & Facts of Weight-loss Surgery – NIDDK (nih.gov)
