Preparing Your Mind For Weight Loss Surgery

Undergoing weight loss surgery is a major decision that will permanently alter your life. To be successful, you must be prepared to make permanent changes to many of your present behaviors. Finding the inspiration necessary to maintain a healthy post-surgery diet and exercise routine can be challenging, but the rewards are worthwhile. Here are methods that help:

Seek support. Talking with others experiencing similar situations encourages you and serves as a helpful reminder that you're not alone.

Trust the professionals. Your surgeon, nurses and medical team are your best allies. They will guide you through lifestyle adjustments before, during and after your hospital stay. Follow your physician's orders closely, especially when getting enough rest and making any dietary changes needed to care for your body.

Identify healthy ways to deal with your emotions. People frequently use food to celebrate happy occasions and alleviate negative feelings. Instead of turning to food when you're having a bad day, call a close friend or perform a stress-relieving activity, such as yoga or meditation. Serve as the driving force for healthier family celebrations by bringing a nutritious dish and encouraging active family events.

Don't demand perfection. Feelings of failure if you overindulge or miss a workout can derail your efforts. Think positively about your accomplishments and the great strides you're taking toward better health. If you've lost as little as 5 to 10% of your body weight, you're already on the path to success. Recommit to your meal plan if you slip, and consider speaking with your doctor if you have negative feelings about your body image or struggle to adjust your lifestyle.

Find a tangible way to document your progress. Log your food and water intake, exercise, weight and measurements along with how you're feeling. Many tracking apps allow you to upload photos of your progress daily. Though it may sound tedious, keeping track of this information will help you feel more in control emotionally and physically. When you hit a weight loss plateau, a journal can help remind you of the excellent progress you've made, as well as identify areas for continued improvement. These progress monitors can deliver the dose of motivation needed to keep going.

Are You Ready to Get Started? Take the Next Step

Find out if weight loss surgery is right for you by attending a weight loss seminar.

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