Just a conversation starter

CEK0220

Beginning this new journey has me wondering about what lies ahead. So I ask of you, what strategy do you have/use to get through the emotional, or just plain difficult, times?

KarlaYP

I always count on, "This too shall pass!" Sometimes situations can get difficult to deal with but I know it's just for a while, then things will improve or just be different. Hang in there! Hugs to you!

CEK0220

Thanks Karlotta. I am not having one of those days. This was just a conversation starter. I was wondering what others do when they do have them. I know there will be days that will seem unbearable, so it's good to have a plan or "exit strategy" so to speak. I think it would be helpful for others to see how people work through their issues or difficulties.

pawoodhull

Pre sleeve, when in those difficult times I would eat everything in site. I always got the "who cares, the weight's not coming off anyway, might as well eat what I want" attitude. Post sleeve I've found the opposite is true for me. When those difficult times hit my attitude is the total opposite and I tend to way under eat, just don't care if I get my calories or protein in. What I cannot tell you is the why is it different for me after WLS? I don't know. I guess my point is, there are physical changes yes, but for some of us, there's also emotional changes as well. Some might not have the same reaction to those difficult days post WLS.

Pat

loriloftness

Like Pat, pre-surgery I would eat every comfort food I could find, and almost anything that had a higher calorie count would fit into that catagory. Post surgery, I have had a bad day or two but for some reason food no longer comes to mind for comfort. I imagine partly because I'm rarely hungry and partly because sweet food doesn't sit that well with me anymore so it's not much of a temptation. I also think I made a commitment to myself that if I was going to undergo this surgery and make this permanent change to my stomach, I had/have to find a way to co-exist with food in a healthy way. That means not eating my emotions. So, I walk, I talk and vent to others, I exercise, and I tell myself to "let it go."

garber6th

In the past, when I was stressed or frustrated or sad or even happy, I would deal with it by eating lots and lots of food. That isn't even an option any more. For me, the restriction forces me to actually think about what's going on because I can't push it all away with food. Now I am more mindful of what's going on with me and I have actual become much less anxious, more patient, and my ability to deal has improved a LOT. I just try to stay calm and think things through and find solutions that don't involve me and massive quantities of food.

LunaGuido

I agree with what everyone has been saying and I'd also like to stress how important it is to have people in your life who support you through this process. I could never have done this without my husband. He has been so patient. I've had quite a few ups and downs in this last month, with surgery and changing my outlook and eating habits. It's almost felt like I was in mourning for food as a means of comfort. It's gotten a lot better, but the support of my loved ones has been a huge help!

CEK0220

Some great posts here. What a great group!
Yes, I've heard that these surgeries can cause a lot of emotions as you are basically mourning a past "relationship". Having tools/options can be essential in being able to get past some days.

KarlaYP

The amount of hormones released from the fat cells as you lose weight can make you very emotional at times. I am learning that it is what it is and will pass. I recommend no major life changes during this time. I feel that regret of that decision would be hard to live with after making it out of that phase of weight loss.

CEK, So glad it's not one of those days for you! Hope they all stay good for you and all of us!

I truly love the support of this group and everything I have learned here! You all are awesome!