Gastric Sleeve Journey – One Month Update
Hey loves! This is my one month update since I had my gastric sleeve procedure. I wrote a part one, if you haven’t read that yet, start HERE.
This first month post-op has been a whirlwind, full of ups and downs. But I can 100% say that I am so happy that I moved forward with this surgery.
Below are my before pictures compared with where I am at currently. I didn’t see much of a difference but my husband says he sees a big difference. I certainly feel the difference though.
- Starting Weight – 309.3 lbs
- Current Weight – 277.6 lbs
I have lost over 31 pounds but this also includes the liquid diet week leading up to surgery. The first two weeks after surgery, the weight was flying off and then it slowed down dramatically. I was really freaked out at first, but my dietician told me it was normal and that my body would regulate around the 6-8 week mark. This past week (week 5) I have already started to see more consistent weight loss.
It can be really hard not to compare your results with someones else’s. I was struggling with this for a little bit, but every body is different. And you have to put in the work, weight loss surgery is a tool, not a magic pill or ‘easy way out’. You have to stick to your protein goals, hydration goals and move your body to see results.
Answering Your Questions:
Do you feel tummy soreness or get diarrhea?
I had a lot of tummy soreness in the beginning after surgery, but nothing major and I feel like I recovered quickly. I do get diarrhea sometimes when I try a new food, it is a learning curve when it comes to what your body can tolerate now.
What is your goal weight?
I started this journey at 309 pounds and I am 5′ 10″. My body feels the best around 180 pounds, but I am going to take it one step at a time and see how I feel. I used to diet to be skinny but now my mindset is on health and feeling strong in my body.
How was your healing?
My healing was great! I really did not have any major issues at all. But I was also extremely blessed because my mom came into town and my husband took a few days off of work. They took care of the 3 kids, the house, cooking, sports etc. I was able to rest and recover. A good support system is so so important.
Any regrets?
I have zero regrets. Don’t get me wrong, this is hard (really hard) but so worth it and I already feel more like myself then I have in a long time.
Does it hurt to eat?
I haven’t experienced much pain, just discomfort. It takes a little time to realize the very first signs of fullness, especially when you are used to eating such large portions. So if I ate one bite too many, it would feel uncomfortable. I have had 2-3 episodes of vomiting when I started trying to eat some meat (chicken especially), but that is already getting better.
What has been the most challenging part?
The most challenging part by far, is no longer having food as comfort. It is forcing me to face things in a healthier way, which is great, but really hard. There have only been a few moments where I really struggled with not eating or eating less. But I don’t feel hungry hardly ever, so that helps in that area.
Also, it is actually pretty difficult not to drink water while I am eating. I can’t drink water 20 minutes before and 20 minutes after eating.
Are you allowed to have coffee?
One thing you learn really quickly in the WLS world, is that ‘rules’ or guidelines will vary from clinic to clinic. Some say no coffee or no straws and some are fine with them. Just follow your clinic’s program. I can have coffee now, but only one cup and I can use a straw. I didn’t use a straw for the first 3 weeks post-op just to be safe (it can cause bad gas pain) and I haven’t had any issues. You also have to learn to listen to your body, you might be able to tolerate something that another person cannot.
Is it hard to stop eating when you are full?
The first few times of eating real food again (after 3 weeks of liquids) it was hard. But you learn really quickly to notice those signs. It also varies from food to food. Some things fill me up way faster than other things. I just have to be mindful and focus on eating, instead of being distracted.
Well, that is all that I have for now! I will probably do my next update at the 3 month mark. Thank you for following along in this journey with me.
Love you all,
Sara