Hi there! 🌟 So, you're considering going under the knife with a mini gastric bypass surgery or any of the other forms of bariatric surgery? Or maybe you've just had yours and are second-guessing your life choices as you sip on that post-op liquid diet. Either way, I get you! I have been there, and I've got some inside deets you'll wish you knew sooner.

1. The Journey Starts Way Before The Operation Room

Surprise, surprise! You don’t just walk in and out of this life-changing event. Nope! There's a whole pre-op process that includes psychological evaluations, diet changes prior to having surgery which your doctor would advise, and lifestyle adjustments. Get your mind right, and the body will follow.

2. Expect to Become BFFs with Protein Shakes and Yogurts

You'll need to meet protein goals both pre and post-op but especially after your surgery. I thought I could wing it, but no, you'll be consuming protein shakes like it's your job so make sure you are fully stocked before you go in even though some find out following surgery that they have developed some aversion to anything dairy. You may also find some dairy-free options in the market, my go-to was LIDL and ALDI, they stocked a few of these which came in quite handy, almost a year following surgery, I still have my protein yogurts which help meet my goals..

3. Liquid Diet Is Harder Than It Sounds

Don't underestimate this one; it's tough. But it's not forever, and you will get through it. Stock up on your favorite broth, yogurt, and shakes. Explore different vegetables for your soups and if you are like me, the store-bought soups also do the job, just make sure there are no bits and if there are, blend these to make digestion bearable, especially in the first 4 weeks following surgery.

4. Choose Your Surgeon Wisely

You need a Michelangelo in the operating room. Research, check reviews, and don't skimp on this choice; it's literally shaping your future. I have personally heard a lot of horrible stories. I was lucky, even though I had to go abroad for my surgery, the experience was first-class. I cannot overemphasize the need for you to research and obtain testimonials before you commit yourself to a surgeon as you are basically handing your life over to them.

5. The Operation Is Only The Beginning

Let me repeat this—having the surgery isn't the end game. It's merely a tool in your weight-loss arsenal. You have to work it to make it work!

6. Re-learning Eating Habits 🍽️

Remember that adorable first date nibbling? Get used to it again because post-op, every meal is like a first date. Always remember the rule of 20: small mouthful of food and pace yourself, chew 20 times before you swallow, put your knife and fork down and count to 20 before taking your next mouthful, eat 20 mouthfuls over 20 minutes, and then stop, put away the remaining food and revisit for later. This is so important, otherwise, you will find yourself falling physically sick with the foamies, not a great feeling at all, ask anyone who's been through this.

7. Farewell to Some Foods (Temporarily or permanently)

Food aversions are very common in the early stages following surgery, certain foods might not sit well initially, especially carbs and fibrous veggies, I’m looking at you! Don’t worry, you’ll be reunited, but it’ll take time, Just don't be put off, you have to revisit such foods at intervals, some you may have to say a lifelong goodbye to but these are very few and could be good for your new waistline!

8. Hello, Portion Control

Those huge-sized portions? Forget these! You're going to deal in teaspoons now, and weirdly enough, it's kind of liberating! Your eyes will still wish for these huge portions so you may find yourself overloading your plate, Your little pouch is your best friend cos when it says stop, you are left with very few options unless you want to experience the shakies!

9. Exercise Isn’t Optional

You thought you'd get the surgery and never hit the gym again? Haha, nice try! Exercise keeps the weight off, helps with toning up, and boosts your mood. I am not a gym person but have my exercises at home and go for long walks, just make sure you are moving.

10. Vitamins Become Non-Negotiable

When your stomach's the size of an egg, you've got to supplement. Multivitamins will be your new morning elixir. Your doctor may prescribe you others, seek advice if you are feeling unwell especially in the first 12 months after surgery, and you may be sent off for a blood test to find out if you have any vitamin deficiencies. I have been on B12 injection every 3 months since my surgery and I have been told this will continue for a lifetime. Always seek advice from your doctor.

11. Dumping Syndrome Is No Joke

Too much sugar or fat can literally make you sick. Respect your new plumbing and stay away from slider foods!

12. Mental Health Matters

Emotional eating doesn't vanish post-op. Make sure you have someone to talk to, always check in with your doctor. The irritation, and frustration that your new pouch brings by not being able to eat the things you want can be massive, Take a day at a time, you will begin to see food in a new light, and you should try and take up new hobbies and embrace your new look.

13. Support System = Success

The importance of a good support network can't be stressed enough. Your ride-or-dies will help you through the highs and lows, Stay away from those friends who are constantly monitoring your weight and telling you to stop, if they don't have anything positive to say to you, they need to keep quiet. You have to learn to guard yourself and protect your mind, you are very vulnerable at this time so surround yourself with friends and family who understand the reason why you are doing this and are there to support you.

14. Keep a Food Journal

Tracking what goes in helps you figure out what does and doesn't work. Plus, it's fun to see your dietary evolution!

15. Old Clothes? Sayonara!

Your wardrobe will need an overhaul, but who's complaining about shopping for a new you? Try not to splurge out in the early days following your surgery. You can find different bariatric groups on Facebook with people willing to sell unworn or newly bought clothes at ridiculous prices. You can also buy fairly used clothes in places like Vinted, and eBay until you get to your ideal weight. There is no harm in treating yourself to one or two but you are still losing weight in the next 12 months after surgery so go easy on the retail therapy!

16. Loose Skin? Possibly.

Expect some loose skin, but lotions, creams, and exercise can help. Plus, it’s a badge of your journey, wear it with pride, and if you don't wish to, you can consider skin removal surgery, whatever floats your boat!

17. Expenses Don’t End with Surgery

Ongoing supplements, diet foods, gym memberships, and perhaps skin-tightening procedures are additional costs. Plan ahead but enjoy the journey, as the saying goes, life is what happens when we are making plans!

18. Regain Is Real

If you don't keep an eye on it, the weight can creep back. This isn't a one-off miracle cure; it's a lifelong commitment. Surgery is a tool, use it wisely!

19. Go Easy on Alcohol

Your altered digestive system will process alcohol differently, making you tipsier, quicker. Moderation is key!

20. You are Not Just Changing Physically

There's a mental and emotional transformation that happens too. You'll see yourself and the world around you differently. Be prepared for this beautiful metamorphosis, and enjoy the non-scale victories, such as walking 30 minutes without calling for an ambulance, seeing that gap between your thighs when you are seated, not worrying too much about fitting into a chair on a night out with friends, these are more important than what the scales tell you.

So, fellow warriors, these are the raw, unfiltered realizations following surgery.

Wishing you well on your journey to a healthy self!

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Until next time, live fierce and fabulous!