How many diets have you tried? If you're like me, you'll probably say too many to count. They never provide lasting results because most aren't sustainable for life. You end up depriving yourself and when things get hard, you give up. So, you eat more, gain more weight, vow to do better and start a new diet. The cycle continually repeats. Bariatric surgery broke this cycle for me, and it can for you too. Because it focuses on lifestyle changes, bariatric surgery works. According to the National Institute of Health, bariatric surgery is the most effective long-term treatment for obesity. Learning a few key tips will help you finally lose the weight for good. Dieting tips for bariatric surgery ... read more
The Best Dieting Tips for Bariatric Surgery You Have to See
The Best Ways of Talking About Your Bariatric Surgery
Talking about your bariatric surgery can be a touchy subject. Some people are strongly against bariatric surgery and may view you differently for having it. Most of these people are either uninformed, scared, jealous or a combination of the three. It's a personal choice who you tell and don't tell, however, any conversation about your upcoming surgery should focus on the health benefits. At a minimum, your family doctor and spouse need to know. You may want to consider telling your children too, as they'll see you getting thinner and may worry something is wrong with you. Family, friends and co-workers can either know or not know, depending on how close you are. Talking about your bariatric ... read more
How to Make a Healthy Meal Plan For Weight Loss
Many bariatric programs require patients to lose weight before surgery because the less you weigh at surgery, the lower your risk of complications. My surgeon required me to lose 50 pounds, so I researched healthy meal plans for weight loss. I also learned about nutrition in my pre-op nutrition classes. What I learned is that a high-protein diet, full of vegetables, lean meats and healthy fats can help me lose weight before surgery. And it did - I lost 80 pounds before surgery. I've included some of my favorite meal idea to give you some ideas to generate your menu. A healthy meal plan for weight loss includes a variety of high-protein foods, vegetables and healthy fats. The Most ... read more
The Behind-the-Scenes Truth on Bariatric Surgery Myths
As you start to explore bariatric surgery, you may come across some information that is incorrect. Some uninformed people may give you their negative opinions about surgery. I'm ready to bust those bariatric surgery myths and drop some truth bombs! I've heard so many of these phrases as I went through my journey, so I am sure you will too. People will say things like weight loss surgery is only for the severely, morbidly obese, and bariatric patients lack willpower. They've never tried diet and exercise, and most become alcoholics. And the granddaddy of them all - weight loss surgery is the easy way out. Well strap in and get ready, because I'm about to blow up these bariatric surgery ... read more
How to Lose a Lot of Weight Fast – The Right Way!
How many flashing ads have we seen that shout, "Lose 10 pounds in Three Days!" or "The Magic Fruit that's Better than Bypass!"? With the obesity crisis in America, it's no wonder people are anxious to lose weight - and even more people are looking to make money from it by providing unhealthy and unrealistic ways of losing weight. The National Institute of Health states that bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for obesity, so no magic fruit, pill, shake or 10-minute exercise is going to treat your weight issues as well as bariatric surgery. So, you may be wondering how to lose a lot of weight fast in a safe, non-gimmicky manner. Well, by following the basic tenants of a ... read more
What Happens at a Cardiac Clearance for Bariatric Surgery
For every pound of fat, there is a mile of blood vessels, according to Dr. Terry Simpson. All of these blood vessels mean the heart has to pump harder to get the blood flowing, putting more strain on the heart. For bariatric patients, this means we need to get a clearance from a cardiologist before surgery. Every program is different, and your program may not require cardiac clearance. You may want to get evaluated anyway, just in case of any underlying issues. They'll likely do an EKG in the office and discuss your medical history. The doctor may order further testing to evaluate your heart more thoroughly. The cardiac clearance for bariatric surgery includes an EKG, a review of your ... read more
How to Actually Stay Healthy Among the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has swept the entire world. Countries are shutting down. Schools are closing. Sports have been canceled. Events are being rescheduled. It's easy to start feeling panicked in situations like these. However, by following a few guidelines, you can protect yourself and your family as best as possible. As a bariatric patient, whether you're pre-op or post-op, it is more important now than ever to follow the basic habits of a bariatric lifestyle. Stay healthy among the COVID-19 pandemic by washing your hands, avoiding large crowds and disinfecting surfaces. Most of the information in this article is found from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site. This ... read more
Weight Loss Coloring Chart: One of the Best Ways to Stay Motivated
How many times during your past diets have you lost motivation and gave up? Perhaps the scale didn't move as fast as you wanted it to, or you were sick of feeling deprived of your favorite foods, or for some other reason, you lost motivation and gave up. You returned to your normal eating patterns, feeling defeated and like nothing was ever going to change. I went through this cycle so many times, and when I decided to go through bariatric surgery, I knew something had to be different. I knew I had to stay motivated during those tough times, so I created a weight loss coloring chart. This chart has made all the difference in my weight loss, and even as my journey progressed, I still used ... read more
Why the BMI for Bariatric Surgery Needs to be Lowered
Weight Watchers. Atkins. Jenny Craig. Keto. How many different diets have you tried with no lasting results? For many people, weight loss surgery is the last straw, a final attempt to lose weight. However, many people on the lower end of the obesity scale may not even qualify for bariatric surgery, despite feeling the negative effects of obesity. Most insurance companies require a BMI of 35 with an obesity-related medical condition. Some companies are, rightfully so, advocating to lower the requirement, as the guideline is a little dated. These guidelines were established nearly 30 years ago and haven't taken into consideration the advancements and newer understandings of the procedure. Most ... read more
This is What Happens at the Halfway Visit for Bariatric Surgery
Halfway through my bariatric surgery journey, I met one-on-one with my surgeon for a second time. While researching information for this post, I didn't find evidence of a lot of programs doing this type of appointment. However, my program did require it, and it was sort of a mid-program evaluation. My surgeon wanted to see if I was taking the program seriously and putting in the work required. He checked my list of bariatric surgery requirements and reviewed my test results thus far. We discussed the remaining requirements and decided on a type of bariatric surgery. The halfway visit for bariatric surgery is a mid-progress check to see how well you're adhering to the program. The Need ... read more
Why Your Nutrition Classes Before Bariatric Surgery Are the Best Motivators
Staying motivated during the lengthy pre-op process can be hard. Luckily, one of your pre-op requirements is nutrition classes. At your nutrition classes before bariatric surgery, you'll stay motivated to continue on the weight loss path because they hold you accountable. You'll set goals and weigh in each month, so you'll be able to track your progress. You learn new skills to help you before and after surgery. Being surrounded by like-minded people is energizing and encouraging. At your nutrition classes before bariatric surgery, you learn the life-long skills you'll need to be successful. Nutrition Classes Before Bariatric Surgery As I've said before, not all bariatric programs ... read more
My Best Bariatric Liquid Diet Ideas You’ll Want to Try
When many patients learn they'll be on a liquid diet for several weeks before and after bariatric surgery, all kinds of worry and anxiety arise. You wonder how you'll feel satisfied or have a variety of safe liquids to consume. Generally, most of the liquids are on the sweeter side, but there are some savory ones you can enjoy as well. You'll need to drink 48 to 64 ounces of liquids every day. I've created a 5-day sample menu with bariatric liquid diet ideas for you to use! With some creativity, you can easily plan for your liquid diet. While the bariatric liquid diet may worry you, with some planning, you can enjoy a variety of liquids and feel satisfied. Worried About a Liquid Diet? ... read more
The Most Difficult Problems with Being Obese
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 39.8 percent of U.S. adults are obese. Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30. The problems with being obese include many social and medical issues, like fitting into a movie theater seat and being at a greater risk of heart disease. When you lose weight, there are also difficulties, like making time for exercising and revising lifelong habits. Weight loss surgery can help make these issues easier. It's not always the answer, and I understand it doesn't solve any of your problems. Being thin doesn't necessarily mean you'll be happy. However, losing weight can help you gain life. While the ... read more
The Best Vitamins to Take After Bariatric Surgery
The information presented in this post is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not replace advice from a medical professional. Please consult a medical professional prior to starting any new diet or exercise program. I am not a medical professional nor a fitness trainer. Every effort is made to ensure the information presented in the following post is accurate and true. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and advice first and foremost. Post may contain affiliate links, which means I make a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read my full ... read more
Simple Food Swaps for Weight Loss You Need to Make
The information presented in this post is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not replace advice from a medical professional. Please consult a medical professional prior to starting any new diet or exercise program. I am not a medical professional nor a fitness trainer. Every effort is made to ensure the information presented in the following post is accurate and true. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and advice first and foremost. Post may contain affiliate links, which means I make a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read my full ... read more
Gastric Sleeve Recovery Time: The Truth on What Happens
The information presented in this post is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not replace advice from a medical professional. Please consult a medical professional prior to starting any new diet or exercise program. I am not a medical professional nor a fitness trainer. Every effort is made to ensure the information presented in the following post is accurate and true. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and advice first and foremost. Post may contain affiliate links, which means I make a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read my full ... read more
How to Make Puréed Food After Bariatric Surgery
The puréed diet phase is the third of five phases bariatric patients progress through after surgery. We've already examined the clear liquid diet phase and the full liquid diet phase. Now, we're going to continue focusing on hydration and protein, but add in new foods to get your stomach ready for solids. You'll purée food to the consistency of smooth applesauce and try one new food at a time. During the puréed diet after surgery, it's important to blend your foods to a smooth consistency without grit or lumps. Purpose of the Puréed Diet The purpose of the puréed diet is to get your stomach ready for solid foods. It's the bridge between your liquid diet and your soft foods diet. At ... read more
This is How to Determine Your Bariatric Surgery Success Rate
Bariatric surgery can and will change your life. While you're going through the process of bariatric surgery, you may be worried it won't work for you. After all, you've tried everything else and haven't been able to sustain weight loss. However, most bariatric surgery patients can maintain their weight loss and also have significant health and quality of life improvements. When it comes down to it, your willingness to change and stick to the lifestyle changes will ultimately determine how successful you are. Your bariatric surgery success rate is dependent on how well you use your tool. How Often Does Bariatric Surgery Fail? To determine bariatric surgery success rates, we need to ... read more
What to Expect at Your Overnight Sleep Study
An overnight sleep study could be one of the pre-op tests your doctor orders for you. They want to see if you have sleep apnea or another sleep disorder. They perform this test for a variety of reasons, but they want to be able to treat you if you have a dangerous sleep disorder. You won't need to bring much, just a few essentials. They'll hook you up to a few electrodes and have you relax. The room inspires relaxation, as they want you to be as comfortable as possible. I had an overnight sleep study as part of my pre-op testing, and it was an interesting experience. The overnight sleep study is a necessary diagnostic test to determine if you have sleep apnea or another sleep disorder. ... read more
How to Know if Weight Loss Surgery is Covered by Insurance
Obesity is super expensive. According to a 2016 article on Insure.com, obesity costs the United States $117 billion a year on medical expenses and lost productivity. Thankfully, bariatric surgery can be a solution to reduce these expenses. However, some insurance companies aren't covering weight loss surgery. To find out if yours will cover surgery, it's up to you to contact your insurance company. Many times when it is covered, you have to meet certain requirements to get approved. Approval time can vary, but you can call at the beginning of your journey to see what your coverage is. Each insurance plan is different, so you'll need to contact your insurance company to find out if weight ... read more
How to Pay for the Weight Loss Surgery Cost
How many of us have ever gotten excited about a new project, only to be halted by the money it takes to start it? Maybe your solution is to whip out that shiny piece of plastic called a credit card and deal with the aftermath later. The weight loss surgery cost can be no different, with pre-op testing, consults and various appointments. Let's not mention the gas involved in driving to these appointments and time missed from work. You can help yourself by checking with insurance to see what portion of the surgery they'll cover and if they have any incentives for losing weight. Getting your own financial house in order can really help in several ways too. You can also try to earn extra cash ... read more
The Forbidden Foods You Need to Avoid After Bariatric Surgery
If you are really quiet, you might be able to hear the sound of a post-bariatric surgery patient getting sick because they ate something they shouldn't have eaten. I've seen it happen so frequently among the bariatric community, and I have also succumbed to the lure of forbidden foods after my surgery. Yes, there are foods you need to avoid after bariatric surgery. While the foods vary greatly from person to person, generally, you'll want to avoid foods that will make you sick, contribute to weight gain or jeopardize your physical safety. The risks of eating one of these types of food include things like dumping syndrome, blockages, vomiting or diarrhea. However, don't dwell on the things ... read more
15 Super Simple Life Changes to Lose Weight for Good
Most women give up on a diet after only five weeks, according to a 2013 article on The Daily Mail. I used to be one of those women. However, when I realized that the only way to change my life was to change myself, I committed to losing the weight for good. In November 2017, I started the process to get bariatric surgery. My doctor told me I had to lose 50 pounds before surgery, so I set myself on a mission to eat healthier and exercise more. I made a few simple changes to lose weight, like tracking my food, eliminating soda and finding healthy alternatives to the foods I loved. Through these simple life changes to lose weight, I lost 46 pounds in my first 14 weeks. If your doctor recommends ... read more
Day of Gastric Sleeve Surgery: The Day that Will Absolutely Change Your Life
Anxious. Scared. Excited. Ready. These feelings are just some of the ones I felt the day of my gastric sleeve surgery. It's completely normal to have mixed feelings the days leading up to and the day of surgery. While everyone has a different experience, generally you'll follow a similar day: registration at the hospital, prep for surgery, the actual surgery and recovery. However, one thing that is the same for everyone is that your life will never be the same. You're making a positive change and taking control of your life. Embrace it. The day of your gastric sleeve surgery is different for everyone, but it will change your life forever. Note: The day of your gastric sleeve surgery ... read more
How to Get Back on Track with Weight Loss When You Fail Yourself
I failed myself. It kind of crept up on me sometime after the hustle and bustle of Christmas and the New Year. I started letting old habits creep back. I felt horrible like I failed myself and all those who supported me. But, I realized my mind and body are a work in progress. Getting back on track with weight loss meant going back to my bariatric basics and reaching out for help. I reconnected with my weight loss goals and why I wanted to lose weight in the first place. Our old habits will never fully go away, but working each day on new habits will bring us closer to our goal. I Failed Myself You know how it is after Christmas and New Year's. You're winding down from a busy ... read more
This is What Happens at the Pre-Op Consult for Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery wasn't real until I had my pre-op consult for bariatric surgery. I mean, I knew I was working towards surgery, but until this appointment, it didn't feel real. I was nearing the peak of my journey but still had a few things to do. At this visit, you'll review your medical and surgical history with your surgeon. He or she will order final pre-op testing. They will give you instructions for the pre-op and post-op diets, as well as sign consent forms for surgery. It's a really exciting and nerve-wracking appointment, but it's also one of the final opportunities you have to ask questions before surgery. Come prepared with your last-minute questions. Everything becomes real at ... read more
5 of the Most Popular Weight Loss Surgery Options
Weight loss surgery seems to be gaining popularity around the world. As obesity rates continue to skyrocket, more people are looking for ways to shed the pounds for good. Thankfully, weight loss surgery is the most effective treatment for obesity. There are five popular types of weight loss surgery options, which either work by restricting food intake, absorbing fewer calories or both. Choosing the best option for you requires a discussion with your doctor and some research into each procedure. There are five popular weight loss surgery options, and each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Restrictive vs. Malabsorptive Before we get into the five popular weight loss surgery ... read more
9 Helpful Tips for When You Start the Liver Shrinking Diet
One of the hardest parts of bariatric surgery is the liver shrinking diet. Followed for one to three weeks before bariatric surgery, the liver shrinking or reducing diet shrinks the liver, so the surgeon can operate properly. You shouldn't follow this diet at any other time or if you're not having bariatric surgery. This diet was my least favorite part about surgery, as the detox from sugars and carbs made me super cranky and tired. No worries though - each day gets a little easier! The liver shrinking diet before bariatric surgery reduces the size of your liver to make surgery easier. Each Liver Shrinking Diet Is Different One of the things that amaze me most about bariatric ... read more
How to Eat More Protein For Bariatric Surgery
One of the first things you'll learn about the bariatric process is that protein is king. After surgery, you'll eat protein before any other type of food. It's for good reason too. Protein not only helps your body heal, but it also helps your body have the energy to function. You can find protein in a variety of sources, including plants, dairy and meat. You may wonder how to eat more protein to prepare for bariatric surgery. Don't worry - I've got you covered! One of the first habits you should change before bariatric surgery is eating your protein first. Bariatric Habits Before we get into the nitty-gritty of protein, I want to first talk about the pre-op bariatric process. For ... read more
How to Decide if the Bariatric Surgery Risks are Worth It
Bariatric surgery is life-changing in so many ways. It's not just how you eat and live, but it can also change how you think and act. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks involved. Some can cause life-long issues. While this may deter some from having bariatric surgery, you should also consider the risks of obesity. Between your doctor, your significant other and, most importantly, yourself, you'll need to determine which you'd rather risk. For me, it was worth the risk. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. While there are bariatric surgery risks, the benefits of losing weight may be worth it. Any Surgical Procedure Carries Risks Surgical procedures of any ... read more
8 Smart Steps for When You Know Your Bariatric Surgery Date
Woohoo! You finally have your bariatric surgery date! You've put in the hard work, checked off the boxes, and you're ready to go! Or are you? There are still a few things to do before heading into the OR, but don't worry! I have you covered. From FMLA paperwork to preparing for surgery, I listed eight smart steps to take once you have your bariatric surgery date. Take these steps to make your surgery day stress-free. Once you get your bariatric surgery date, you'll want to make sure you complete some final details before surgery. FMLA Paperwork The very first thing you'll want to do after you finish your happy dance from celebrating your bariatric surgery date is submit your FMLA ... read more
20 Awesome Gifts for Bariatric Patients in Your Life
Bariatric patients are unique people. We've voluntarily had our insides rearranged and overhauled our whole lives. We often can't eat or take part in the same activities we used to be able to do and can sometimes feel left out. With holidays coming up and being surrounded by foods we can't eat, it's even harder. Luckily, buying gifts for bariatric patients is easy. We just want to know you support us, so buying gifts to make life easier means the world. There are some things to avoid buying, as they'll just go to waste. Gifts for bariatric patients should include items that help get them closer to their goals. Gifts to Avoid Buying gifts for bariatric patients isn't that difficult. ... read more
Why You Need Physical Therapy Before Bariatric Surgery
Exercise is one of the hardest habits to form. Especially when you're obese, it can be physically painful. These reasons are just a few of why some bariatric surgery programs require physical therapy before bariatric surgery. Exercise is important because it burns calories and strengthens muscles. The physical therapist will evaluate you to see what you need to strengthen the most and set up a treatment plan to reach some goals. You'll have multiple visits over a few weeks, which will help establish an exercise routine for you. Physical therapy before bariatric surgery strengthens your abdominal muscles and gets you into an exercise routine. Physical Therapy Before Bariatric ... read more
7 Practical Ways of Staying Warm After Losing Weight
One of the side effects of bariatric surgery that wasn't really discussed with me is cold intolerance. I'm constantly cold, even when others are warm. There are several reasons for my chills, including fat acts as an insulator. When you lose weight, you're losing insulation. Your body will learn to regulate itself once your weight stabilizes, but it can take a few years. Your best defense is to arm yourself with a few tips to stay warm. Staying warm after losing weight can be difficult but not impossible. Cold Intolerance Cold intolerance is where you get sensitive to cooler temperatures. According to an article on Livestrong.com, fat cells act as insulation for your body. They ... read more
Why You Need to Get an Upper Endoscopy Before Bariatric Surgery
Who doesn't love a good nap? That's exactly what it feels like to have an upper endoscopy: a deep nap where you wake up with a sore throat. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy is a technical name for an upper endoscopy or EGD. Honestly, this test is one of the more cumbersome ones you'll have to do, but it's also pretty easy. It's done for a variety of reasons, including pre-bariatric-surgery planning. A thin hose with a camera on the end examines your upper gastrointestinal tract for issues. You'll be given a mild sedative, and most patients sleep through the procedure. You'll spend the rest of the day recovering and resting. Getting an upper endoscopy before bariatric surgery may be necessary to ... read more
How to be Grateful for Your New Life
The holidays are a time for fun, family, friends, fellowship and frowns. Yes, the winter blues are real. It's no surprise that depression increases over the winter holidays. With less sunlight providing happiness-boosting serotonin and more pressure to spend money on gifts for people you may not even like, it can be hard to remain positive. Bariatric patients have a unique challenge, as they can no longer partake in food rituals as they used to do. However, bariatric surgery gives you a second chance at life, not a life sentence. When you change your mindset and actively practice gratitude, you can learn to be grateful for your new life and not resent it. It's Easy to Feel Left ... read more
What Happens at a Pulmonary Clearance for Bariatric Surgery
One of the many stops on your bariatric surgery journey is a pulmonary clearance. The point of this clearance is to assess your lung function and identify any issues that may lead to complications. You'll start the exam like any other appointment and then discuss issues like smoking, breathing, snoring and chest tightness. The doctor may order further testing, such as a sleep study or a pulmonary function test, as well as follow-up appointments. The pulmonary clearance for bariatric surgery checks your risk for pulmonary complications during and after your surgery. Why It's Necessary It's necessary to get a pulmonary clearance for bariatric surgery to assess your lung function and ... read more
The Best High Protein Meal Replacement You’ll Try
Thank you to Bariatric Advantage for sponsoring this post. All content and opinions are my own. Most bariatric surgery programs recommend you consume at least 60 to 80 grams of protein per day. However, when your stomach is so small, it's hard to consume so much protein, especially in the first few weeks after surgery. Most patients turn to a form of protein shakes to reach their protein goals. At more than 16 months post-op, I still drink a protein shake daily. But, not those chalky ones you buy at the store. I've used Bariatric Advantage High Protein Meal Replacements since my pre-op liquid diet. They provide nearly half of the minimum amount of protein I need, taste great and are ... read more
How to Lose Your Bingo Wings in 7 Easy Exercises
"B4," the announcer yells as you dab the last spot on the top row of your bingo card. You raise your arm excitedly and wave furiously, shouting, "Bingo!" Your excitement quickly fades as you feel your sagging arms swaying and shaking with each movement. Those dreaded bingo wings make you feel self-conscious, and you're tempted to hide them. Losing your bingo wings may not be completely possible, but with consistent effort, you can tone and strengthen your arms. There are some surgical options, but most likely, they won't be covered by insurance. Instead, you should focus your efforts on toning your arms and developing muscle to feel confident without sleeves. To tone your arms, there are ... read more
The Proven Way to Journal for Weight Loss
Keeping a food journal can double a person's weight loss, according to a 2008 study by Kaiser Permanente's Center for Health Research. There's something almost magical about a new notebook. It's full of so many possibilities and can help in your weight loss journey. By tracking your food, either by a special journal page, a notebook or in an app, you know exactly how much you're consuming and can even track your moods. One woman lost half her body weight this way. It also gives you a chance to be creative and record your thoughts. Journaling for weight loss can help increase your weight loss and control your emotional eating. Food Journaling for Weight Loss It's no secret, as I've ... read more
The Best Way to Reset Your Pouch
Enjoy the honeymoon phase of bariatric surgery while you can! The phase of rapid weight loss doesn't last forever, and eventually (unfortunately, really), you'll hit a stall or even gain some weight. I've also been frustrated by these stalls and weight regains. However, I see so many bariatric patients regain a significant portion of their weight or get discouraged when they've hit a stall. Many of you may want to reset your pouch by trying a fad diet, like a pouch reset or intermittent fasting. To save you the trouble, I've tried out both with mixed results. These diets aren't going to "fix" your pouch at all. While a reset may help you lose weight initially, it won't shrink your pouch. ... read more
The Important Reasons You Need Bariatric Support Groups
Attending bariatric support groups was a requirement of my bariatric surgery program. I think this component was one of the most important requirements. Having support for your bariatric surgery is vital to your success. As you make changes, there will be times you want to give up. You need people in your corner to motivate you or kick you in the pants when you need it. Meetings are typically centered around a certain topic and allow you to connect with other patients. Online support groups can be just as helpful, as well as other types of support groups. It's important to reach out to your support groups when you're struggling and when you're succeeding. Attending bariatric support groups ... read more
9 Absolutely Easy Workouts To Do Right at Home
The gym can be such an intimidating place. It's filled with weird machines, an always too-happy front desk person who looks perfect in her workout attire, guys who look like they could lift a car with one arm and that one over-achiever who is all-out sprinting on the treadmill. It can be tough to motivate yourself to go to the gym when you are surrounded by people who know exactly what they are doing, and you kind of feel lost in a maze. Luckily, workouts to do at home can provide a great way to exercise. From exercise videos to walks around the neighborhood and incorporating exercise into your routine, it's easy to get an effective workout at home. 1. Exercise Videos You can ... read more
7 Killer Ways to Avoid Eating Halloween Candy
I hated my life for so long. The longer I hated my life, the more I loved Halloween. I think it's because I did hate my life, and Halloween allowed me to become whoever I wanted to be. Most of my Halloween costumes have been kind of gruesome: a decapitated head, half a face and a person being eaten by a shark. Now that I've finally grown into loving my life and the person I've become, I still love Halloween. What I don't love is being surrounded by so many tempting treats. Once you've had bariatric surgery, the candy that's so prevalent this time of year can not only derail your progress but also make you sick. Don't worry, I've got seven tips for you to say no to the sugary treats this ... read more
Decrease Financial Stress with Baby Steps
Just like there's a journey to bariatric surgery, there's also a journey to decrease financial stress. Dave Ramsey created the Seven Baby Steps to guide you through wealth management. Prior to my bariatric surgery, money frequently caused me stress, which often led to stress eating. I knew if I wanted my weight loss surgery to be successful, I'd have to decrease my financial stress. Ramsey's plan appealed to me because it gave me a clear road map that focused on saving, debt repayment and helping others. There are a few things I wish were different, but completing step one lifted a big weight off my shoulders and gave me peace. Dave Ramsey's Seven Baby Steps is a smart money management plan ... read more
The Best Exercise Routine for Obese Women
It's so easy for the skinny Instagram influencers to show off their workout routines that their able-bodies gracefully perform. But what if you're morbidly obese? Those workout routines are too hard for a body held back by excess fat. For this reason, I recommend you start with walking. It's low-impact, easy to do and can help you establish an exercise routine. Gradually increase your intensity and length of your workout. You'll reap all the benefits of exercise, including increased range of motion and endurance. There's a lot of options to exercise if walking doesn't sound appealing to you. Get motivated, and start moving today! The best exercise routine for obese women is ... read more
How to Clean Your CPAP
When you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it can be overwhelming learning how to use your continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, getting used to sleeping with a mask on your face and maintaining the equipment. Luckily, cleaning the equipment is fairly easy and only takes about 10 to 15 minutes of your time. It's important to regularly clean your CPAP to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Wiping down the face mask daily ensures a tight seal. Weekly cleaning of your CPAP tubing, mask, headgear and water tub prevents mold build-up. While there are some things you should avoid, cleaning your CPAP regularly should become habit. Regular cleaning of your CPAP ensures you're getting ... read more
Seven Easy Steps to Stop Drinking Soda!
Would you like your ice-cold soda with a side of type II diabetes, heart disease or weight gain? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over-consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages are associated with these serious risks. If you've had bariatric surgery or are considering it, you should stop drinking soda now. I understand how hard it is to stop. At my worst, I drank three to four cans of soda a day! At my bariatric surgery information session, my doctor said something that prompted me to stop drinking soda forever. Turns out, there are several benefits when you stop drinking soda. Just follow the same seven steps I did to kick your soda habit today. When you stop ... read more
Staying Motivated When You Want to Give Up
Updated 9/26/2019 to provide you with a consistently awesome experience here at Stop Weighting, Start Doing! Bariatric surgery is a long process. Your pre-op journey can take six months or more just to get to surgery. Afterward, it's a lifelong commitment to get to and maintain your goal weight. It can take years to get to where you want to be, especially if your journey includes follow-up plastic surgery to eliminate excess skin. Staying motivated during this time is probably something with which we all struggle at some point. Luckily, if we remind ourselves of our goals, help others and reach out to our support groups, we can stay on the path to success. The secret to staying motivated ... read more
Regular Bariatric Diet: Post-Surgery
The fifth and final phase bariatric patients progress through after surgery is the regular bariatric diet. We've already examined clear and full liquids, as well as pureed and soft foods. Your new normal starts now. It's important to go slow, as your new stomach needs time to adjust to foods. You have the rest of your life to experiment and see which foods work with your stomach and which may not. Protein is king now, and you'll chew your foods well. I've also provided some recipes for meals I eat regularly now. Being able to eat a regular bariatric diet means you focus on protein and stay hydrated. Purpose of the Regular Bariatric Diet The purpose of the regular bariatric diet is ... read more
Soft Foods Diet: Post-Bariatric Surgery
The soft foods diet phase is the fourth of five phases bariatric patients progress through after surgery. We've already explored the clear and full liquids phases, as well as the pureed phase. Now, it's time for actual food! You should be at least one month post-op before proceeding to this phase to allow your stomach plenty of time to heal. Foods should be soft, nothing tough or grisly at this point. You'll try canned and ground meats, eggs, canned vegetables and canned fruits. Eat your protein first, and chew well. During the soft foods diet after surgery, it's important to chew each small bite 20 to 30 times. Purpose of the Soft Foods Diet The purpose of the soft foods diet is ... read more
What to Expect at a Bariatric Surgery Information Session
Updated 9/5/2019 to provide you with a consistently awesome experience here at Stop Weighting, Start Doing! Imagine you're sitting at home, snuggled up in your pajamas in your favorite chair on a Sunday night. It's cool, as fall is starting to arrive, and you're sipping hot chocolate. You're mindlessly scrolling through Facebook before bed, and a thousand thoughts are swirling through your head. Suddenly, you see something that stops you in your tracks. It's an ad for a bariatric surgery information session. You've considered bariatric surgery before but never had the time, patience or money to delve into it. Since you have a few minutes to yourself, you click the link and read the ... read more
Reviewing the First Visit with the Bariatric Surgeon
Updated 8/29/2019 to provide you with a consistently awesome experience here at Stop Weighting, Start Doing! At your first visit with the bariatric surgeon, be prepared to talk about the demons that caused your obesity. Your surgeon wants to know this information so he or she can get you the proper pre-op clearances you'll need. You'll also discuss surgical options, as well as have the opportunity to ask questions. Your doctor will also send out your consult requests and give you suggestions to start changing your habits. At the first visit with the bariatric surgeon, you'll review medical and diet histories, discuss surgical options and receive your consultation requests. Getting ... read more
Clear Liquid Diet: Post-Bariatric Surgery
The clear liquid diet phase is the first of five phases bariatric patients progress through following surgery. For the next five weeks, we'll look at each of these phases in-depth and provide recipes for each. Your plan may differ slightly than the one I had, which is on what my posts are based. Always follow your doctor's instructions and advice first. Your clear liquid diet begins immediately after surgery and lasts for a few days. Your stomach is still healing, so plain liquids are necessary to stay hydrated. You'll want to take small, slow sips as your body recovers. During the clear liquid diet after surgery, it's important to stay hydrated with non-caloric, sugar-free ... read more
Six Easy Ways to Drink More Water
Updated 8/22/2019 to provide you with a consistently awesome experience here at Stop Weighting, Start Doing! Dehydration is a contributing factor to hospital readmission after bariatric surgery, according to this article on MD Edge. We need to consume at least 48 to 64 ounces of water each day before and after surgery. It can be hard to do so, especially if water isn't one of your usual go-to drinks. I've listed six tips to help you drink more water, like adding flavor and buying a new, fun water bottle. You can also use apps to track your water intake. It's important to drink more water because it helps our bodies stay hydrated, boosts metabolism and flushes toxins. Drink More ... read more
The Benefits to Bariatric Surgery
Updated 8/15/2019 to provide you with a consistently awesome experience here at Stop Weighting, Start Doing! Life before bariatric surgery was filled with stress and unhappiness for me. I was unfulfilled, unmotivated and ate away my emotions almost daily. The benefits to bariatric surgery are numerous. My vertical sleeve gastrectomy allowed me to end the repetitive dieting and lose the weight for good. Small changes led to big results. Additionally, my medical health improved. Most of all, the emotional and social benefits also allowed me to better manage my stress, motivated me and helped me find my purpose. The benefits to bariatric surgery extend beyond weight loss and include many ... read more
Snowball Debt to Reduce Stress
$38,000 is the average amount of debt (excluding mortgages) an American has, according to a 2018 CNBC.com article. Debt can be so stressful and even cause you to delay your weight loss surgery. You may feel guilty about spending so much money on your surgery when your debt is piling up. It may cause you to stress eat, which is something we want to avoid. These reasons are why you need to take control of your debt now, so it won't sabotage you later. There are two popular debt reduction strategies to help you: the snowball method and the avalanche method. By comparing the two strategies, it's obvious which one has the advantage. I'll even share my own experience with debt reduction and ... read more
Fighting Obesity Through Weight Loss Surgery
Updated 08/08/2019 to provide you with a consistently awesome experience here at Stop Weighting, Start Doing! Did you know that bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for obesity, according to a Harvard Special Report on weight loss? For this reason, I chose weight loss surgery, even though I was able to lose weight before surgery. After I lost 80 pounds during my pre-op days, people questioned why I would still get surgery. There are several answers like I had to lose at least 50 pounds to get surgery, and I needed a tool to help me eat less. However, it boils down to the fact that weight loss surgery is a tool to help you fight obesity more permanently. Weight Loss ... read more
Why CPAP Can Save Your Life
18 million Americans have obstructive sleep apnea, according to an article posted by Dr. Saul Modlin, an ENT in New York. At your pulmonology clearance appointment for weight loss surgery, your doctor may have referred you for a sleep study. If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, it is vital you use your CPAP machine to manage it. CPAP can save your life. Sleep plays a huge part in weight loss, so we need to get as much restful sleep as we can. It can help you avoid dangerous health consequences. Using your CPAP regularly to treat your obstructive sleep apnea will aid in weight loss and help you get the sleep you need. CPAP & Sleep Apnea Basics According to ... read more
Filling Out the Bariatric Pre-Visit Paperwork
Updated 8/1/2019 to provide you with a consistently awesome experience here at Stop Weighting, Start Doing! The bariatric pre-visit paperwork can be intimidating. It may be the first time you have an honest look at your exercise and eating habits. It starts with basic information but progresses into more personal information about your lifestyle, eating habits and past diet history. You also have the chance to create goals. Honesty is key when filling out these forms. It helps your team make decisions for your weight loss surgery in order to ensure your success. Honestly answering the questions on your bariatric pre-visit paperwork will help your doctor better support you through the ... read more
Meditation: 10-Minutes to Control Stress
Weight loss surgery is life-changing. While there are so many good aspects of this surgery, it's also extremely stressful. You're changing a whole lifetime of habits, and it's no easy feat. One way to manage this stress is through meditation. Taking a few minutes to calm your mind can help avoid stress eating. I used meditation consistently to manage all of my life changes, and it helped tremendously. It's simple and only takes a few minutes. You can easily find time in your day. Meditation is an excellent way to manage stress, especially with all the changes surgery brings. What is Meditation? Meditation to control stress is simply spending a few moments quieting your mind and ... read more
The Benefits of Starting a Home Gym
I love, LOVE the gym. I go to Planet Fitness and love my "me time" there. But it wasn't always that way. I know how hard and sometimes embarrassing it is to start at a gym. Especially when you're obese, you feel like everyone is judging you and staring at you. An easy way to get into a workout routine without dealing with the hassle and fear of a gym is by starting a home gym. You just need a few basic tools, and you'll be able to get the benefits of exercising. It helps avoid excuses for not going to the gym and gives you the convenience of working out at home. Exercise videos are a fun way to get more cardio too. Starting a home gym is an easy way to get more exercise without the ... read more
Chicken Crust Pizza Recipe
Pizza is my favorite food. Seriously. I couldn't imagine my life without eating it again. Once I had bariatric surgery, I knew pizza would only be a once-in-a-while treat. The high carbs and fat aren't conducive to a bariatric lifestyle. So I started searching for a bariatric-friendly option. I derived this recipe from several I've read to get a crispy crust that holds up well and can be eaten like regular pizza. This recipe replaces the flour-based crust to a chicken and cheese crust. Sign me up! Chicken crust pizza is a protein-packed, delicious, filling meal for bariatric patients Make It Count! Since our new stomachs can't hold a lot of food, we have to make our meals count. ... read more
Surviving Your Psych Eval
Psychological evaluations sound big and scary. However, most surgical weight loss programs require them. It really is nothing to fear. It's necessary to evaluate your current mental health to give you the best possible outcome for surgery. They'll review your former and current mental health issues. You'll identify if you're an emotional eater and how you'll cope after surgery. They'll give you suggestions for dealing with emotions and provide guidance for post-op mental health care. The psych eval required for surgery helps identify possible mental health issues and suggestions for coping with surgery. Why Do We Get A Psych Eval? Psych evals are required for a few reasons. An ... read more
Medical Flex Spending for Bariatric Surgery
On top of all the questions about your new life after surgery, you may also be wondering how you'll afford the surgery. It can be quite expensive just by itself, not to mention all the preop tests, doctor appointments and tools to help prepare you for surgery. One way to cover your part of the cost of surgery and its pre-op visits is by opening an account for medical flex spending for bariatric surgery. I'm assuming that you have health insurance through someone's employer who also offers flex spending accounts. If you're self-paying, you'd have to find ways to save money to pay for surgery. However, that topic is for another day. For now, we're going to explore how medical flex spending ... read more
Embrace Hobbies to Lose Weight
Emotional eating is a problem so many of us have. We eat when we're bored, sad, tired, happy, angry, etc... Since bariatric surgery requires us to change so many habits, we need to also change our emotional response to situations. We already enjoy our hobbies, so why not tap into that enjoyment and do them instead of eating? Additionally, if your hobby is physical, like dancing or hiking, the extra physical activity can aid in weight loss. Keeping your hands and mind busy keeps them off food. Embrace hobbies to lose weight. Allow your hobbies to become the emotional crutch that food used to be. Changing Our Habits Bariatric surgery requires us to change a lot of habits. We change ... read more
A Look at My 36-Pound Weight Loss!
Updated 6/13/2019 to provide you with a consistently awesome experience here at Stop Weighting, Start Doing! In just two months, I've lost 36 pounds. It hasn't been easy, especially over the holidays. However, I consistently remind myself of my goals, my motivation behind losing weight and why I'm pursuing weight loss surgery. These factors motivate me to keep going, especially when I want to give up. I'm almost at my pre-op weight loss goal, so it's super exciting to feel like I'm making progress and taking the steps I need to be healthier. The differences in my comparison photos is astounding, and I am so glad that I decided to take these pictures. If you are just starting on your ... read more
Automate Your Meals to Eliminate Overwhelm
When you're only eating a quarter of a cup to a cup of food per meal, it can be hard to cook a single serving. Luckily, making multiple servings of a meal can help automate your meals and help you stay on track with your lifestyle change. Automating your meals is similar to meal prep, but it's a way for you to not even have to think about what you're eating because it's already made for you. With kids, jobs and a house to run, anything to make life easier is a blessing. Automating your meals is a great way to stay on track when your life is crazy busy. Automate Two Meals Per Day I learned about automation from Rosemarie Groner at The Busy Budgeter. The concept changed my life. I ... read more
Welcome to the Loser’s Bench!
I was just like you: severely obese, tired all the time, sick of being the fat girl, frustrated with clothing and scared I was going to die because of my weight. I turned to weight loss surgery to help me lose the weight for good. Finally, I overcame my food addiction and successfully lost over 200 pounds. Now, I want to help you get through the surgical weight loss process and join me on the loser's bench! Stop Weighting, Start Doing will help you navigate through pre-op and land on your feet post-op. How Stop Weighting, Start Doing Will Help You Through the Surgical Weight Loss Process Welcome to Stop Weighting, Start Doing! My name is Nicky Bicksler, and I'm here to provide ... read more
Meal Prep Brings Success & Weight Loss
One of the main reasons I managed to lose 190+ pounds in under 14 months is meal prep. I am a big fan of meal prep. Preparing food for the week ahead is something everyone should do, but especially bariatric patients. Meal prepping before your week starts will set you up for success. It doesn't take long, and it isn't difficult. It will save you time, a headache and calories later. When you meal prep for the week, you will have a successful week. What is Meal Prep? Meal prep is simply preparing the foods you are going to eat for the week so that you can quickly grab them and go. You don't have to prepare the full meals, but if you can wash up your produce, make some hard ... read more
The App That Makes Running Fun!
I know you're thinking there's no way you'll ever be able to run a 5k race. However, as you lose weight and gain more mobility, you're going to find that you have more stamina and energy than ever. A great way to test your abilities is by signing up for a 5k race, which is a fun event that usually raises money for a good cause. It seems intimidating, but if you download the Couch to 5k App on your phone and follow their program, you'll be running to the finish line in no time! This app actually makes running fun, as it allows you to run at your own pace. You can feel yourself getting stronger and faster, which is always motivating. The App that Makes Running Fun Couch to 5k (C25k ... read more
Start Becoming The Person You Want to Be
Updated 7/18/2019 to provide you with a consistently awesome experience here at Stop Weighting, Start Doing! We all have a different story. Some of us have been overweight our whole lives, tried every diet in the book and are frustrated with our lives. Others have a medical condition that causes us to gain weight and makes it nearly impossible to lose weight. Some of us long to have families, but excess weight makes fertility a challenge. Yet for all of us, we have the power within to change our lives and start becoming the person we want to be. It's never too late to go after our goals. Losing weight is just the beginning. Stop Weighting, Start Doing is more than just information about ... read more
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