Six Months And Happy (Long Xpost)

[Terry H. 196]

My six month surgiversary was yesterday and I’m feeling great. I’m losing at a pretty consistent 14 lb a month rate right now and I think that is terrific. I don’t lose every day – in fact I often go up a pound or two and stall out for a few days and then lose for the next few.

Here is a roundup of my NSVs since I started losing weight pre-surgery last June:

• Now wear large t-shirts and polos down from 3-4x before
  
• 2x dress shirt as opposed to 5x before
  
• Pants size 46 down from a tight 62 before
  
• Walking has become very easy and I’m not intimidated by distance any longer
  
• One night I jogged to my car (parked in the far end of the lot) in the rain
  
• I’m doing deep Water aerobics 2x a week and regular water aerobics 1-2x a week
  
• Every physical aspect of my life is so much better and I have a tremendous boost in energy
  

So far, I’ve not had any issues with food worth mentioning. I’m finding it pretty easy to stick to the 600-800 daily calorie intake with 60-80g Protein and 30g net carbs or less. This site and others have proven to be very valuable to me because when I get the urge to splurge I look for something to inspire my inner chef and stay on track. My diet is as varied as fish tacos with low carb lavosh to slow cooked bbq pork with a no calorie BBQ Sauce. My restriction is very good and I only eat 2-4 oz of protein depending on the density. I’m working to add more fruits and veggies to my diet now but protein is first and the king of my plate. When eating at home, my wife and I make our own meals about 75% of the time. Prior to surgery I would have found this unacceptable. I think that was a symptom of my obsession with food. Now I see it as we both get what we want. When we do share a dish it fits my meal plan and she has lost about 20 pounds too. She also exercises with me very often. This has benefited us both. Going out to eat with my wife and/or friends has been fun too. I’ve learned to order whatever I want – and I want food that fits my plan. I don’t worry about wasting food. I order by taste so that I don’t feel deprived. Sometimes just an appetizer. Sometimes a full entrée with left overs. Sometimes a shared app and entrée. Taking food home is an option and because I ordered food I liked, I often have the leftovers for 2-3 meals.

Most of my fears before surgery have not been realized. I’m pretty comfortable with myself right now. I get impatient and want to lose faster but then I consult my logs and see how far I’ve come and that really helps. I’m now preparing myself for the possibility of plastic surgery at the end of my journey.

I wish everyone as much success as I’ve had so far.

[Lissa 2,631]

What an amazing post and an amazing journey so far! The fact that you have embraced the food changes so well is amazing! Your happiness shines out of both your picture and your post. Congrats and you'll be at goal very soon!!!

[Writergirl 230]

Thank you so much for sharing your story and your eating regimen. Congratulations on your huge success! I can tell how excited you are, and it's really motivating to me! Keep us updated on your journey!

[Cheles 75]

Awesome job! You are doing great!

[Ms skinniness 3,003]

WTG Terry! Keep it up! Your doing great!

[DDFinn 118]

It sounds like you are living life to the fullest! I hope I have as much success as you have had!

[baseballmom02 13]

CONGRATULATIONS !!!!! You are an insperation to all of us !! I get my sleeve May 7 . I am so excited and even more so after reading your post : )

[SleeveDreamer 383]

What a great story! It's awesome that your wife is so supportive. My husband has lost weight to since I have had my surgery! I wish ou continued success. You are a true inspiration to anyone contemplating the sleeve!

[Sergeant_Hotsauce 18]

Excellent summary and pin point accuaracy of what it takes to be sucessful.

[sleeveInSD 17]

Congratulations on your success! I have been antsy all day feeling a bit nervous for my surgery next week, but your post has been very inspiring and I'm back to feeling excited again! About that no calorie bbq sauce...do you have a recipie?

[Terry H. 196]

Thanks to everyone that responded to my post. It is great to get that boost!

[Terry H. 196]

Congratulations on your success! I have been antsy all day feeling a bit nervous for my surgery next week, but your post has been very inspiring and I'm back to feeling excited again! About that no calorie bbq sauce...do you have a recipie?

SleeveinSD,

I used Walton Farms calorie free BBQ Sauce. They have a bunch of no calorie sauces that range from not bad to yucky. This is one of the good ones (in my opinion).

Terry