FifiLux

It happens to us all as our bodies adjust.
We can be totally irrational about it, not giving ourselves the benefit of what we have achieved..... I had a 6 month check up with my surgeon on Wednesday and I was annoyed with myself as I was up (0.5kg) on previous weeks but that was just me being silly, he said my weight, 63kg, was "perfect" for me and my loss had been "incredible". I came away feeling much better BUT still want to get rid of that 0.5kg plus another 0.5/1kg

I am getting a nano keratin treatment tomorrow to hopefully relax the growth a bit.

It happens to us all as our bodies adjust.
We can be totally irrational about it, not giving ourselves the benefit of what we have achieved..... I had a 6 month check up with my surgeon on Wednesday and I was annoyed with myself as I was up (0.5kg) on previous weeks but that was just me being silly, he said my weight, 63kg, was "perfect" for me and my loss had been "incredible". I came away feeling much better BUT still want to get rid of that 0.5kg plus another 0.5/1kg

I wouldn't say extreme but once my hair stopped falling out and started the growth phase I did notice my scalp is itchier and I sometimes see dandruff, which I never suffered from before.
I recently switched to an oat milk based Shampoo which seems to be helping with the itch.
My hair is really annoying me as it is coming back thick (which it was before) but with a curl/kink to it so the crown part where so much regrowth is happening is all thick, puffs up and out but then the longer parts are thin. I asked my hairdresser to cut it all short a few weeks ago and she refused as she said it has such a kink to it that it would look worse shorter and I just have to try and brave it out another few months.

I love the VB dress.
I always keep an eye out for ones in a good deal but haven't seen full length like that (I hate my ankle and calf area being on show). Dress is lovely and you look fab.

Congrats on taking the first step!
As @FifiLux pointed out, the keys are really going to be reducing portion sizes and making good food choices. These will be really important after surgery, so getting started on them sooner rather than later is the right approach. By the way, fad diets like Low Carb and Keto may work for some people, but as you said, they don't work for you so there's no point going there.
It's also really critical you don't try to make drastic changes all at once. What you need to focus on is one sustainable positive change at a time until it becomes the new norm for you. People almost inevitably fail when they make wholesale changes to their diet and activity level simultaneously. Also, If after implementing a particular change it still feels like a challenge to you, then keep at it until that one is just part of what you do. Once you get to that point, only then is it time to try to make another change.
My suggestion is to pick no more than 2-3 things per month you want to change about your diet and activity level and start with the ones you think will be easiest first.
Changing subjects a bit, let's do some math here. To lose 6 pounds a month, you'd need to reduce your energy balance by -750 calories a day. This can be made up of lower intake, greater activity, or most likely both. At your current weight, walking ~3 miles an hour would burn ~200 calories per mile. Thus a 30 minute walk would burn ~300 calories and an hour walk would burn ~600.
Add in smaller portions of the same things you're eating now and 6 pounds a month will be easily attainable.
Keep us updated as you progress and the smart folks here will be glad to help.

My advice is to make changes to your diet and exercise in the next few months that you feel you can maintain for the rest of your life, as opposed to trying a fad diet (Keto, paleo, etc.) that is likely to be too extreme. Focus on basics like reducing your simple carbs and sugars, increasing your lean Protein and veggies. Start measuring your portions to make sure you are not eating more than you think. Start getting your 64oz or more of Water every day and cut out any sugar-sweetened drinks that you might drink (and also alcohol) because it's just empty calories.
Walking and light weights are really great, but remember that about 80% of your weight loss comes from your diet, and only 20% from exercise, so don't feel like you have to go crazy with joining a gym and working out, especially if you're starting from sedentary. Regular walking every day does amazing things.
At this stage, small changes can make a big difference. One thing I did right away was go through my cupboards and get rid of temptations. I stopped buying crackers, pretzels, Cookies, and sweets. I would still have a treat when I was out, but I would try not to bring it home. Since I work from home, not having things in the cupboards to tempt me was a huge help.
I was not required to lose weight before my surgery, but by making these little changes, plus the strict 2-week liquid diet, I ended up going from 251 lbs to 225 lbs in about 6 months. You can do it!

I know it is hard but try not to let her (and anyone else with a negative attitude) get to you.
You have taken a big step and congratulations on starting the journey to a new you.
Did the medical team say they wouldn't operate if you didn't reach the 34lb loss? I am sure they don't stop everything if you are just a few pounds short so don't stress if you can help it. You say it is a supervised plan so I presume they are used to helping patients follow it and adapt it to an individuals needs so that should be a help for you. You are so motivated (studying, saving etc) that you will do your best and any loss pre-surgery is a win.
I had sleeve surgery and in the months before I tried my best to eat smaller portions so I switched to an appetiser sized bowl and plate for most of my meals. I knew I would be using them after the surgery so figured may as well ease myself into it. I also tried to start eating slower - I am still not great at that but better than before.
food wise don't go so extreme that you then self sabotage at some point out of desperation for a food you love. We all have different reasons for getting to the size we do that needs surgical intervention, for me it was partly not knowing when to stop eating, too much carbs and alcohol and not exercising at all. I didn't have to go on a diet pre-op or do the liver reduction thing a lot of patients have to do but in the weeks before my surgery I went on holiday and ate everything I wanted so actually went up in weight so then when I returned I just cut down on things but still allowed myself an occasional treat, so instead of pastries for Breakfast I had Greek or skyr yogurts, shop bought sandwiches etc for lunch were swapped for homemade veg Soup, for dinners instead of pizza's, burgers and Pasta dishes I tried to have more chicken & veg based meals, cutting back on a lot of carbs. I swapped out rice and pasta for cauliflower rice or lentil pasta. These small changes helped me get back on track before my surgery but as I didn't have to follow a pre-surgery diet plan it was more for me, so as to get into good habits.
I am sure there will be plenty of advice and support here for you 💪

I know it is hard but try not to let her (and anyone else with a negative attitude) get to you.
You have taken a big step and congratulations on starting the journey to a new you.
Did the medical team say they wouldn't operate if you didn't reach the 34lb loss? I am sure they don't stop everything if you are just a few pounds short so don't stress if you can help it. You say it is a supervised plan so I presume they are used to helping patients follow it and adapt it to an individuals needs so that should be a help for you. You are so motivated (studying, saving etc) that you will do your best and any loss pre-surgery is a win.
I had sleeve surgery and in the months before I tried my best to eat smaller portions so I switched to an appetiser sized bowl and plate for most of my meals. I knew I would be using them after the surgery so figured may as well ease myself into it. I also tried to start eating slower - I am still not great at that but better than before.
food wise don't go so extreme that you then self sabotage at some point out of desperation for a food you love. We all have different reasons for getting to the size we do that needs surgical intervention, for me it was partly not knowing when to stop eating, too much carbs and alcohol and not exercising at all. I didn't have to go on a diet pre-op or do the liver reduction thing a lot of patients have to do but in the weeks before my surgery I went on holiday and ate everything I wanted so actually went up in weight so then when I returned I just cut down on things but still allowed myself an occasional treat, so instead of pastries for Breakfast I had Greek or skyr yogurts, shop bought sandwiches etc for lunch were swapped for homemade veg Soup, for dinners instead of pizza's, burgers and Pasta dishes I tried to have more chicken & veg based meals, cutting back on a lot of carbs. I swapped out rice and pasta for cauliflower rice or lentil pasta. These small changes helped me get back on track before my surgery but as I didn't have to follow a pre-surgery diet plan it was more for me, so as to get into good habits.
I am sure there will be plenty of advice and support here for you 💪

I know it is hard but try not to let her (and anyone else with a negative attitude) get to you.
You have taken a big step and congratulations on starting the journey to a new you.
Did the medical team say they wouldn't operate if you didn't reach the 34lb loss? I am sure they don't stop everything if you are just a few pounds short so don't stress if you can help it. You say it is a supervised plan so I presume they are used to helping patients follow it and adapt it to an individuals needs so that should be a help for you. You are so motivated (studying, saving etc) that you will do your best and any loss pre-surgery is a win.
I had sleeve surgery and in the months before I tried my best to eat smaller portions so I switched to an appetiser sized bowl and plate for most of my meals. I knew I would be using them after the surgery so figured may as well ease myself into it. I also tried to start eating slower - I am still not great at that but better than before.
food wise don't go so extreme that you then self sabotage at some point out of desperation for a food you love. We all have different reasons for getting to the size we do that needs surgical intervention, for me it was partly not knowing when to stop eating, too much carbs and alcohol and not exercising at all. I didn't have to go on a diet pre-op or do the liver reduction thing a lot of patients have to do but in the weeks before my surgery I went on holiday and ate everything I wanted so actually went up in weight so then when I returned I just cut down on things but still allowed myself an occasional treat, so instead of pastries for Breakfast I had Greek or skyr yogurts, shop bought sandwiches etc for lunch were swapped for homemade veg Soup, for dinners instead of pizza's, burgers and Pasta dishes I tried to have more chicken & veg based meals, cutting back on a lot of carbs. I swapped out rice and pasta for cauliflower rice or lentil pasta. These small changes helped me get back on track before my surgery but as I didn't have to follow a pre-surgery diet plan it was more for me, so as to get into good habits.
I am sure there will be plenty of advice and support here for you 💪

Had my consult at Banner University Medical center in Tucson. The team seems really nice and eager for you to succeed. My first appt with the dietician is Jan 29th and is supposed to be about 90 minutes. Lots of tests I need to have completed asap; sleep study, cardiology clearance, endoscopy, barium swallow, psych eval, chest X-ray, and a ton of labs. Gotta complete the 6 month supervised diet and lose 10% of my weight throughout the 6 months. They want to see a little each month and not a lot at real quick. I weighed 344 yesterday and they want me at 310 before surgery. I shared this in a Facebook forum and the 1st comment was, "Really, how do they figure you can lose that much in 6 mos? Wow. Good luck with that!" (Nothing like a little encouragement right off the bat! 😬 ) I replied that it's only 34 lbs & I need to lose 6 lbs a month. She said if she could lose 6 lbs a month she wouldn't need surgical help! I looked at her profile & it turns out she's a failed ESG from September because 'she likes food too much'. BUT now it's in my head that maybe I can't lose the 34 lbs in time. I'm definitely ready to get this going! I have studied this for so many years! I'm super excited to have finally taken this step & have saved money for the last several months to cover my deductible & most of my Out of Pocket max. The fat girl in me decided I needed a food funeral, so I had my last ever buffet yesterday. I hope this 6 months goes by quickly! I'm ready to feel better & move better. My knees & back need a break LOL! If y'all have any tips for losing the 34 lbs in 6 months, please share them. I know low carb/sugar free & keto..... but I've obviously never been successful with them or I wouldn't be this big.

Win: 9 months post op time flys!

Looking fab, and you still have your boobs so I am jealous

I have another appointment on Tuesday to get more stitches removed. Its been a process, I had anchor stiches, drains, regular stiches haha all the things. But I am ready for a solid stair master workout, heck I would even settle for a stationary bike sesh which is my least favorite form of cardio. He mentioned that doing lower body and core as long as I wasnt putting so much strain on my upper body would be fine, he suggested hiking too. I am back at work today so already I am feeling better about my day. Such as having my meals prepped, tracking, drinking my Water and going to walk short distances today too. So heres to getting back on track!

Not to make you jealous or anything @AmberFL but I went to the gym today 🤣
I was really looking forward to it after not having been for 2.5 weeks due to Christmas holidays so I can understand the frustration. It is worth it to be patient and take care of your new assets.

Not to make you jealous or anything @AmberFL but I went to the gym today 🤣
I was really looking forward to it after not having been for 2.5 weeks due to Christmas holidays so I can understand the frustration. It is worth it to be patient and take care of your new assets.

We all have done great this year and by being on this forum and the conversations in the topics we all do such great work supporting and motivating each other, I would have been lost without it and everyone

I hope everyone is kinder to themselves in 2025 and recognises that WLS is a lifelong journey and a tool to help us and that even when we make a misstep, such as panicking that we ate too much or didn't exercise enough, we need to see it for what it is, a blip, and we are still even with the blip most likely in a better place than pre-op.

Well done to all of us, as you say @Mspretty86 we got this!

Even though my surgery was in July 2023, due to all the complications I suffered, I only consider that my journey started in January 2024 and even then it was a struggle most days to just breath and get out of bed but I have been doing and feeling much better since around May/June this year after (what was hopefully) my final WLS related procedure. I now feel comfortable in myself and enjoy the lighter side of life.

Since the surgery I have lost almost as much weight as I now weigh (62kg/136lb/9.7st vs 58kg/127lb/9.1st lost) which amazes me, I didn't actually think it was possible to be this 'light'.

I didn't grieve food as I was just too exhausted most of the time to give it much thought so in a way I take that as a positive. I am trying my best to respect my new stomach in that I give it small yet good/nourishing food choices and allow myself the occasional treat and glasses of wine. I have enjoyed finding and trying out new recipes.
I took up aqua aerobics and pilates in February and used that to help build up my strength and then in October joined the gym which I love. I find it funny now how my body and brain tells me I need to get up and walk, and I obey, whereas in previous years I would have just ignored the notion and stayed on the sofa. I love the feeling of wanting to move and then being able to move, not restricted by the weight.
I also see in myself how I am changing, pre-op if I had a set-back or upsetting day I would usually sit on the sofa for hours/days and drink and eat on repeat but now I think it out, do an activity etc to get through - for example a couple of weeks ago my beloved cat of 16yrs had to go to sleep and it was so upsetting for me (and still is) and in times gone by I would have stayed in bed or on the sofa with a bottle (or three) of wine, popcorn, chocolate etc but this time I scrubbed clean the apartment one day, sorted somethings out for donations another day, went to the gym and just focused on the movements, went for walks. I just hope that I can keep up this sensible me for the years to come!
In the last year I have learned to listen to myself, take care of myself and not take sh*t from anybody and I intend to keep that up for 2025. Also for 2025 I look forward to continuing as I am doing now; mindful eating, exercise and enjoying life.
Happy New Year everyone 🎉

I have made this a few times and really like it (without the Pasta accompaniment)
https://motivation.ie/recipes/dinner-recipes/smoked-paprika-goulash-motivation-recipe/

Some other ideas you might like (all of which I have tested and gone back to again and again);

https://www.bariatricfoodcoach.com/lasagna-stew/ - I do not do the pre-slow cooker browning

https://skinnyfitalicious.com/crockpot-chicken-shawarma/#recipe - Love, make using chicken breast cubes/strips

https://bakingqueen74.co.uk/slow-cooker-spicy-bean-stew/

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/spiced-carrot-lentil-soup - I don't do the pre-slow cooker step, just bang it all in the slow cooker. I do keep back one carrot though and add it in after blending but sill with about 30 minutes left on the cook so there are some soft bites, I also add a lot more chili but that is to my taste.

https://www.bariatricfoodie.com/crockpot-curry-chicken/ - I skip step 1

https://www.bariatricfoodsource.com/blogs/bariatric-friendly-recipes/pureed-chicken-soup-bariatric-phase-3-soft-food - I just put all in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. I have added chili sometimes or other herbs.

https://motivation.ie/recipes/lentil-soup-with-crispy-bacon/ - again I just put all the ingredients (skip the oil & bacon) into the slow cooker.

Give it time @FifiLux. I say this as I’m sipping my cup of tea and eating crackers with labneh. Was probably into my 2nd year before I could do it and I do go slowly because I’m not a gulper and can’t drink lots of mouthfuls one after another. Sip, wait, take a bite, wait, sip, repeat. So you may not have been able to do it this Christmas, by next Christmas you may be able to sip your coffee and nibble on a mince pie.

In the last couple of weeks I realise that I grieve being able to have a cup of coffee at the same time as eating a snack. Like at the moment I want one of my Christmas mince pies to take a bite out of in between sips of coffee. 😢
Instead I will have my coffee now and then wait about 30 minutes to eat the pie, not exactly the same satisfied feeling.

I love the VB dress.
I always keep an eye out for ones in a good deal but haven't seen full length like that (I hate my ankle and calf area being on show). Dress is lovely and you look fab.

So tonight I put my chicken breast and veggies in a skillet with tex mex style spices and home made green Tomato salsa, bit of guac and Greek yoghurt. 297 cals
740 cals for the day.

In the last couple of weeks I realise that I grieve being able to have a cup of coffee at the same time as eating a snack. Like at the moment I want one of my Christmas mince pies to take a bite out of in between sips of coffee. 😢
Instead I will have my coffee now and then wait about 30 minutes to eat the pie, not exactly the same satisfied feeling.

Did a thing! Win: My mother has been a petite small lady all her life. She does not think about food, crave food, want food 😂😂😂. could you imagine not thinking about food?! She does not suffer from the disease of obesity. Welp I went home to visit and she was like I think you can wear these pants! The pants is her clothing; her closet resembles that of a small store. So many cloths! I'm like noooooo I will not be able to wear them. Welp I was able to fit in here wide leg size 8 pants from banana Republic WOW that is crazy!!!!