Preparing Your Mind For Weight Loss Surgery

Undergoing weight loss surgery is a major decision that will permanently alter your life. To be successful, you must be prepared to make permanent changes to many of your present behaviors. Finding the inspiration necessary to maintain a healthy post-surgery diet and exercise routine can be challenging, but the rewards are worthwhile. Here are some things that help:

1. Seek support. Talking with others experiencing similar situations provides encouragement and serves as a helpful reminder that you’re not alone.


2. Trust the professionals. Your surgeon, nurses and medical team are your best allies. They will guide you through lifestyle adjustments before, during and after your post-hospital stay. Follow your physician’s orders closely, especially when it comes to getting enough rest and making any dietary changes needed to properly care for your body post-surgery.


3. Identify healthy ways to deal with your emotions. People frequently use food to celebrate happy occasions and alleviate negative feelings. Instead of turning to food when you’re having a bad day, call a close friend or perform a stress-relieving exercise, such as yoga. Serve as the driving force for healthier family celebrations by bringing a nutritious dish for everyone to sample and encouraging active family events.


4. Don’t demand perfection. Feelings of failure if you overindulge or miss a workout can derail your efforts. Think positively about your accomplishments and the great strides you’re taking toward better health. If you’ve lost as little as 5 to 10 percent of your body weight, you’re already reaping weight loss rewards. Simply recommit to your meal plan if you slip, and consider speaking with your doctor if you feel badly about your body image or have trouble adjusting your lifestyle.


5. Find a tangible way to document your progress. Log your food and water intake, exercise, weight and measurements along with how you’re feeling, or consider starting a photo journal that includes a pre-op photo and photos taken every month after surgery. Though it may sound tedious, keeping track of this information will help you feel more in control emotionally and physically. When you hit a weight loss plateau, a journal can help remind you of the good progress you’ve made as well as identify areas for continued improvement. These progress monitors can deliver the dose of motivation needed to keep going.

Are You Ready to Get Started? Take the Next Step

Find out if weight loss surgery is right for you by attending a weight loss seminar.

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