josephnyc

Oxford's approved my surgery (apnea, diabetes, etc.), scheduled for March 12. I'm about to start my 2 week liquid pre-op diet. My head is swimming in confusion, ambivalence, fear, etc. I'm 47, weigh 237lbs and 5' 8" My ideal (I think) weight is 185. I've been down to about 190 (at my wedding, 15 years ago and 2 years into Atkins), and I felt much, much better than now. I've been trying for 30 years to get to a healthy weight -- had moments of success, but always revert back to obese. I keep learning about what life is like after surgery, as well as the risks of the procedure during and after. Besides being terrified of surgery, I am a food addict (an overwhelming number of characteristics of any addiction apply to me and food). I don't know how I can change overnight from eating 4 slices of pizza before having the strength to stop (despite wanting to finish the pie) to eating 3 forkfulls? Any help would sure be appreciated! Thank you, Joseph

Thanks for the help. I understand about feeling full and being unable to put more food into me because of the pain and my body's reactions if I do. What I'm wondering is what the frustration of not being able to do that will be like? Will I feel emotionally unsatisfied every time I eat? I do . I cannot find a way to solve that problem. I am exercising and eating the way I am supposed too. I am losing weight. But the emotional part is really a challenge. I am telling you the head part is way harder than the body part for me! Sorry to hear it's difficult for you. I know quite well the significant role the mind plays in eating to excess. I see your surgery was in November, so there hasn't been too much time to adjust. I hope you're (justifiably) very proud of the accomplishment to date. In addition to the internal emotional stuff, I'm also concerned about the socialization aspect: There's not much that goes on when more than one person is involved that doesn't include eating or drinking -- and where food doesn't have a central role. I can imagine someone saying let's have dinner, or a party, or something and me thinking 'oh great, I'll have my 3 ounces -- how can I have fun?'

Thank you all so much for sharing! I hope I have the positive outlook that you all have after my surgery.

Thanks for the help. I understand about feeling full and being unable to put more food into me because of the pain and my body's reactions if I do. What I'm wondering is what the frustration of not being able to do that will be like? Will I feel emotionally unsatisfied every time I eat?