Trouble shaking the "diet" mentality?

[jensjoy28 351]

So, I'm about 5 weeks post-op and I've been surprised at the number of times I've caught myself thinking like a person on a diet and then needing to remind myself, "oh yeah, this isn't temporary, this is forever"....any time in the past when I've embarked on a lifestyle change, however well-intentioned and permanent-minded I was at the get-go, it always ended.

It isn't so much a deprivation mindset, because I really haven't had cravings for my past indulgences (yet) but more the repeated surprise at my forever-diminished capacity.

[johnlatte 1,232]

I totally get what you are saying. The thing though to keep in mind, is that the further out you go, the easier it will be to slip back into those habits. The sleeve can be easily defeated, and a significant change in lifestyle is the only real way that we will be successful. That's tough, but this is a great time, during your honeymoon phase to get out of those bad habits and relearn how to eat for fuel and not recreation. It sounds like you've experienced that in the past, and I would urge you really concentrate on not only eating smaller portions, but eating a balanced diet. All the sleeve does is limit capacity, and as you go on, that capacity is going to get bigger. What the sleeve won't do is make good choices for you. That's where the hard part comes in. Good luck, it sounds like you are on your way.

[jensjoy28 351]

Thanks, Johnlatte, you are right. Fortunately, I feel like I was as mentally prepared for this as possible and had started seeing a therapist a while back to unravel and shake loose some things I knew we're standing in my way. Now I am much more "present" in my choices and why I am making them...much easier the other way, but ultimately led to much more pain

[johnlatte 1,232]

Thanks, Johnlatte, you are right. Fortunately, I feel like I was as mentally prepared for this as possible and had started seeing a therapist a while back to unravel and shake loose some things I knew we're standing in my way. Now I am much more "present" in my choices and why I am making them...much easier the other way, but ultimately led to much more pain

I think you are going to be just fine. Hang in there.

[DudeCar59 19]

I completely understand. It take serious time and effort to do this right, not to mention behavioral change (probably the hardest thing ever) and I'm on week 7 and kind of exhausted I am not giving up though, but just wanted you to know I feel your pain!