Why I had the Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Struggling with obesity can be a daunting and emotionally draining experience that can take a toll on both physical and mental health. After years of struggling with my weight and facing multiple health issues, I made the difficult decision to undergo gastric sleeve surgery in order to regain control of my health and my life. In this article, I hope to share my personal journey on Why I had the Gastric Sleeve Surgery, and offer hope to those who may be facing similar challenges.

I have struggled with my weight as fast back as I can remember. I was never a skinny person but growing up I wasn’t heavy either until about Junior High. The weight piled on and it was after college that I really seen myself as fat.

Yes, I said fat. I am not hiding behind words such as overweight, pleasantly plump, husky, or big boned. Over my teenage years I would alternate between starving myself and binging and purging. I never got skinnier instead I gained even more weight. When I am honest with myself I see that I was OBESE. Thru my journey to the Gastric Sleeve I have learned to be honest if I am going to change.

Why I gave up dieting and had the Gastric Sleeve Surgery

When I was in my early 20’s I decided that I wanted to change and I set out on a drastic path. I worked out 2 hours a day and never consumed more than 1000 calories. I lost 60 pounds and was happy but I always seen my flaws.

At times I would stumble back into my old habits of starving or purging.  When I was feeling good I reveled in clothes shopping in “normal stores” and the attention I seemed to gain because all though I lost weight my “chest” stayed a DD!

The weight gradually came back on and I have struggled for the past 9 years to lose the weight. I tried fad diets, weight watchers, and even caught myself reverting to my old habits, again. I started working out last summer doing Water Aerobics and Curves but no matter what I did the scale never budged.

One day a light bulb came on and I realized that at 34, 5′ 3″  and 260 pounds I needed to do something. I was missing out on so much because I was always tired or wore out super easy. I attended a seminar on the Gastric Sleeve and other Gastric options and a week later had my first appointment.

My insurance said they would cover the procedure but only after 6 months of documented weight loss. So I started going to the Weight Loss Clinic at my local hospital and began the 6 month process.

I would like to say during that time the weight left but I would yo-yo up and down for almost 6 months.

I began to get discouraged until I realized that even though the scale was not moving my mindset and thinking process was changing. I was cooking more at home,we were eating fast food a lot less, my daughter’s snacks became healthier, I was mindful when ordering at restaurants, and I even began trying new food flavors that I had shunned in the past.

I had my Gastric Sleeve Surgery on April 5, 2013. My weight that day was 246 pounds. After only 6 weeks, I am down to 214 pounds.

I still have a long way to go but after going to Cedar Point this weekend I realized once again why I made the right decision. I fit in the rides and made it for 2 days keeping up with my 14 year old and 9 year old. They were asking me to take breaks not me asking them. I was even able to step in and help a pregnant mom who couldn’t ride a ride with her boys and they were too small to go alone. I was worried but excited that I was able to help and I fit in the ride below.

I have a long road ahead of me and I will never be in the clear but with the Gastric Sleeve I gained a step in the right direction. It will be at least 1 year before I am even at my goal weight and now begins the part of strength training to ensure that I build muscle mass instead of losing it. With my surgical clearance and everyone’s blessing,I am ready to begin the next step in my recovery after my Gastric Sleeve Surgery.

If you want to read more information about gastric sleeve I recommend these two books, The Sleeved Life: A Patient-to-Patient Guide on Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Weight Loss Surgery and Ultimate Gastric Sleeve Success: A Practical Patient Guide To Help Maximize Your Weight Loss Results.

After Gastric Sleeve Surgery Tips

If you’re considering getting gastric sleeve surgery, it’s important to be prepared for recovery and make lifestyle changes to ensure long-term success. Here are some tips based on scientific evidence to help you prepare for and recover from the surgery.

Follow a Pre-Op Diet

Your surgeon may ask you to follow a low-calorie, low-carbohydrate diet for a few weeks before the surgery. This helps to reduce the size of your liver and makes it easier for your surgeon to access your stomach during the surgery. Following this diet can help you lose weight and lower the risk of complications during surgery. It also prepares you for the diet changes you must make after surgery.

Build a Support Network

Recovering from gastric sleeve surgery can be challenging both physically and emotionally. Having a support network of family, friends, and healthcare professionals is important to help you through the process. Consider joining a support group for people who have undergone the surgery. This can be a great way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through and get advice and encouragement.

Focus on Protein

After the surgery, your stomach will be smaller, so you’ll need to eat smaller, more frequent meals rich in protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in your body and helps you feel fuller for more extended periods. Eat protein-rich foods such as lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, and tofu. Consult a registered dietitian to develop a healthy eating plan that meets your nutritional needs.

Stay Active

Regular physical activity is crucial for long-term weight loss success. After the surgery, gradually increase your physical activity as your body heals. Begin with light activities like walking and stretching, and progressively increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is essential after gastric sleeve surgery to prevent dehydration and constipation. Sip water throughout the day and avoid drinking large amounts of fluids with meals. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine, which can dehydrate your body and hinder weight loss efforts.

Gastric sleeve surgery can be an effective way to achieve long-term weight loss. Following these tips on preparing and recovering after surgery can increase your chances of success and improve your overall health and well-being. Always follow the advice of your healthcare team and be patient as you recover from surgery.

Products to Get After Your Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Portion Perfection Bariatric Food Containers

4 Pieces Bariatric Portion Control Plate

Smart Tape Measure Body with App

Omron Body Composition Monitor with Scale – 7 Fitness Indicators & 90-Day Memory

Body Fat Scale, ABLEGRID Digital Smart Bathroom Scale for Body Weight