What worked for you ?

[Lily22 13]

I see so many successful stories of people losing even 50-100 lbs in the firs 6 months. Now since my surgery date is in December I want to know How you did it ? what routine did you do or try to do that you would recommend for us to do?? I know lots of people say exercise and try to get the Protein down but since so many of you have gone through and have had lots of success I would like your opinion or just describe what you felt worked for you. Can't wait to see some of the replies.

[skinnygirlwithin 693]

I followed my doc/nuts guidelines and didnt wavier from it. (with one exception -the amount of Water & Protein - i didnt awlays get it all in the begining)

But i didnt eat anything before i was supposed to... and i don't drink adult drinks - maybe once a month & didnt try any till i was about 6 months. and NO soda, my last soda was almost a year ago Nov 30th.

I do not eat any Pasta, rice, or breads & def NO white flour - I think this has been a HUGE help... After 6 weeks of fluids, shakes & soft foods... i kind of was "weened" off of it... so i just stayed away from it... i am a Pasta /bread girl .... or i was.... I am not saying that it isnt hard to stay away cause there are times, but i know if i have just a little, that will be my gateway down the wrong path...

Good Luck!!!

[bikrchk 1,313]

Exercise, hydration and get the Protein down is the best advice I can give! Also, don't be afraid to EAT! Particularly if you commit to an exercise program your body needs calories (in a balance of protein, fat and carbs). I set my MFP so I get 70+g of protein per day. That's 25% protein, 45% carbs and 30% fat, though I try to exceed in favor of protein whenever possible. While losing I hung between 1000-1200 calories per day. I did not lost "fast" but that was intentional. I wanted to land my maintenance calories in the most manageable (read highest) place possible for long term success.

[Bufflehead 6,358]

I weighed and measured everything I ate and kept it high Protein and low carb. I tracked everything I ate on MyFitnessPal and stuck to the rules and macros issued by my bariatric team. Three small meals, no Snacks other than Protein Shakes. For the first six months I ate NO grains, NO refined sugar, and NO starchy vegetables. I only exercised in moderation -- I believe strongly that exercise is excellent for your health but has basically no bearing on weight loss.

[Rogofulm 2,440]

Okay, here's my formula: I'm all-in with my doc's guidelines to minimize carbs and focus on lean Protein and fluids – AND take all my Vitamins and supplements. I have one 30g Premier Protein shake every morning to kick things off, a 24oz tumbler of Fluid (Crystal Light Decaf iced tea) throughout the morning, lean Protein and maybe a few veggies for lunch, another 24oz tumbler of Fluid throughout the afternoon, a healthy (low-carb, no starch) dinner, one last 24oz tumbler of fluid throughout the evening, and maybe a couple of Snacks, like low-cal Greek yogurt, as needed. I haven't had a bite of processed sugar since surgery, and don't miss it. I don't really worry about calories because they take care of themselves, and my secret weapon "comfort" snack (or meal replacement) is beef Jerky (low-fat and tons of protein). I try to walk 40 minutes per day, and try to go to the gym on Saturdays. Lather, rinse, repeat. I go to tons of social eating events and quite a few restaurants, but always plan ahead in order to control what goes in my mouth. If necessary, I bring my own food and drink. And I Celebrate each and every scale and non-scale victory while focusing on enjoying the ride. So far, so good! You may notice that this involves a somewhat selfish, or self-centered approach. I kind of think that's necessary in order to always keep your program as one of your top priorities. Stuff happens along the way, but we can't let it derail our journey. Don't leave the possibility of failure as an option. That's "old thinking". A positive, I'm gonna do this, no matter what! attitude really helps. Good luck!

[Lily22 13]

Thank you all for your answers. they are all greatly appreciated.

[ProjectMe 909]

I've only posted a couple of times...haven't felt comfortable. I began this journey in June with the PreOp requirements my local military base requires to be eligible for the sleeve surgery. Through nutrition classes and support group meetings, I have lost 40 pounds. My surgery is just around the corner on Dec. 16th. I mention all this because I want to continue my success with Wls tool and I believe the only way I will be successful is by following the lead of successful people like yourselves. So thank you for sharing your lifestyles! I will definitely be copying and editing to create my customized lifestyle!