Bariatric Surgery Is Not a Quick Fix
Bariatric surgery requires serious preparation, both physically and mentally. Many people don’t realize this, but bariatric surgery isn’t just a procedure—it’s a process that involves training!
Training for Bariatric Surgery?
Yes, training! Looking back on my own journey, I spent about six months preparing for my surgery. At first, I thought it was just extra work, but I quickly learned that most programs require this preparation. Surgeons and insurance companies alike ask patients to prepare in different ways, and these steps are essential to long-term success. Here’s how I trained for my bariatric surgery.
A Rocky Start…
My journey didn’t start smoothly. I was working with one insurance company when I lost my job, and with it, my coverage. This meant starting the process all over again. What should have been three months of preparation turned into six. But looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. Those extra months of practice helped me fine-tune my habits and better prepare for the surgery, ultimately ensuring my success.
Shifting Habits
Step One: Learning to Journal Food.
Tracking your food is a must if you’re preparing for bariatric surgery. You need to know you’re getting enough calories and hitting your protein goals. My PCP put me on a prescribed keto diet to help me manage carbs and get comfortable with a high-protein lifestyle. My go-to app for food tracking is Baritastic, and it’s been a game-changer.
Step Two: Drink, Girl! Drink!
Learning to love water was key. My dietitian told me to invest in cute water bottles to make sure I always had water with me—whether at the office, in the car, or running errands. Hydration became a non-negotiable part of my day, and it’s still something I prioritize. Here is my current FAVORITE water bottle that I take with me everywhere I go!
Step Three: Get Moving!
Before surgery, I needed to prove I could lose weight and maintain an active lifestyle. This meant getting my body moving in new ways. I started small—walking my dog before work, getting up from my desk for regular breaks, and even joining a local softball team! Eventually, I found a passion for running, which I still love today. My advice? Find something you enjoy, whether it’s walking, dancing, or a sport, and just get moving!
Changing Mindsets
Changing your habits is hard, and it can be mentally taxing. I had access to a psychiatrist throughout the process, but I regret not taking advantage of that resource. I thought I didn’t need it, but looking back, I would have benefited from the support. However, I did join a support group, which was a game-changer. Not only did it help me stay on track, but it also connected me with others who understood my struggles. Over time, I even became a mentor and leader in the group—a role I still cherish today.
Training for a New Life
Preparing for bariatric surgery is more than just meeting medical requirements—it’s about building a foundation for long-term success. Every step, from tracking food to staying active and finding mental support, played a crucial role in my journey. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth every moment of preparation.
If you’re considering bariatric surgery, my advice is this: embrace the process. The habits you build before surgery are the ones that will carry you forward into your new, healthier life. You’re training for more than a surgery—you’re training for a transformation.