My Gastric Bypass Journey- A personal weight loss story- Rules of engagement

If you are following me you will already know that in 2016 I made the decision, along with my physicians, to undergo Gastric Bypass Surgery. This article is related to following the rules set forth by my surgeon and how important I find it to comply. As of this date I have lost 88 pounds in 7 months thanks to this surgery and my new life habits.

Having half your stomach and significant amount of intestines removed is drastic. If you get to the point in your life where you require it, meet the requirements set forth by your health insurance and are considering it you are going to have to take it seriously. Of course you are going to follow the rules right? Wrong- alot of people don’t and then they don’t understand why it didn’t work for them. (This is different from complications which we have no real control of.)

What are the rules that apply to a Gastric bypass patient? Some depend on your surgeon. Research shows that compliance to the rules leads to a better outcome.

In order of importance here are the rules MY surgeon recommends:

1. Protein first- always. Either in liquid “shake” form or real food. Fish, Turkey, Chicken, Beef, Pork, etc 60-100 grams a day.
2. Vitamins- there are special “Bariatric” vitamin packs that meet this requirement. Google  patchmd for what I use.
3. Hydrate- As much as possible always and never less than 48oz a day. Recommended 64oz normally.
4. Healthy Carbs- Non starchy vegetables. Cucumbers, butter lettuce, tomatoes. Non starchy vegetables until you are in maintenance. (at goal weight)
5. Don’t drink with meals. No longer do you “wash it down” because you are actually “washing it through” and the point is to feel full.
6. NO ALCOHOL for the first year. Preferably EVER. It is empty calories, can throw off your sugar levels and will lower your inhibitions and possibly cause you to over eat.
7. Follow up visits with your Bariatric team. Lab work as directed. This helps you stay ahead of any complications.
8. Exercise. You do not need to become a marathon runner but you do need to move.  I find that walking works for me as well as some “strength training” with light weights.  Some people do find they love working out.  I do not.
9. Conscious eating. Pay attention. Eat slow. Appreciate the food.
10. Quality food. No more processed foods. (I have actually become a bit of a food snob- and a good cook!) I find that low carb, modified paleo and keto menus work best for me.
11. Support groups. There are many groups available on Facebook that I find helpful. Keto eating, Bariatric cooking and then of course there are the live meetings at my surgeons office.
12. Manage your bowels (this maybe should be number one) You will find that constipation is an ongoing issue due to the lack of fiber in your diet (early on after surgery) Keep track of when you poo. Stool softeners, probiotics, laxatives will be part of your life. Smooth move tea is a godsend!!

Until next time… Happy losing!