Round 3: Setting myself up for success

[ValerieInMexico 162]

Hi, in the intro section I explained that, after 19 1/2 years, I am going to have a "tune.up" Revision details in my other post

This is my third time with bariatric surgery, and I am ready this time. I am working, hard, on my three major obstacles to a healthy post bariatric life.

1. Small portions

I had my friend, Annoying Jan, come and stay with me for two weeks. She is 70, looks like senior Barbie, is incredibly active and is always dishing out advice. I decided to listen to her for a change. She spent time with me looking at Portion Control, frequency of eating, dealing with the evening hunger that has always defeated me. I told her "F Off!" A few times.... but she was patient. The first week was hell. The second week I began to eat like Jan, Small Breakfast, Small lunch, Small dinner and a very small evening snack. Very wonderful food. Organic eggs, fresh veggies and fruit, nuts, Beans, low fat cheeses, Soups, guacamole. We had "tapas" for dinner. Small portions of delicious things. Thought I would die at night, but I got into the swing of it. I tripled my Water consumption and took a lot of walks and completed a lot of tasks on my todo list. Also went to bed early. Its been two months and I have stuck with the routine. I am still friends with Annoying Jan. She made me walk up hill two kilometers last week. I did it, much to my surprise. Having a friend that believes you can do something is so helpful. She came with me to the surgeon consultation and is so supportive. She has not had bypass surgery, she is just really aware of what she is consuming and she has been studying me for years, trying to coach me. She believes in the surgery after doing research. Its the best for me and she will support me. I love Annoying Jan.

2. Timing drinking and eating

Target: No food after drinking anything for at least 20 minutes. I am going for 30. More difficult: No drinking while eating. Most difficult: No drinking for at least 30 minutes after eating. I am targeting 45 minutes. "OKay Google... set timer for..." is my most frequent phrase.

3. Getting the nutrients in

What a difference 20 years has made! I have planned for and ordered the special bariatric Vitamins and minerals. I am setting up reminders on my phone to alert me to take my pills. I have been reading labels and testing Protein powders for the past two months and have ordered everything I need. I have ordered several books, recommended on this forum site where I can find recipes to make nutritious smoothies and Soup.

I was 10 years old on my first diet. I am 62 now. I am blessed with no serious health issues, a strong body and a couple of really good friends. And now, I have this wonderful community to come to for inspiration.

I feel that all this pre surgical work, on setting up routine and dealing with night hunger is going to help me long term. I have gone through some serious health issues in the early years post my first by-pass, and turned my health around and that took about 10 years of work. I maintained most of my weight loss. now, I am ready to get the last 50 off.

Some of you might have an annoying friend who may be your biggest supporter if you are willing to accept their help.

Edited July 14, 2019 by ValerieInMexico
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[GradyCat 3,695]

Good luck on your next WLS journey.