1st wk. post-op Lessons

[Guest guest]

Passing along info: things that have made it easier -- I found a set

of tiny bowls (about 5 " across) in my china cabinet. Restaurants call

them " monkey dishes " for lemon, mayo on the side, etc. I fix my food

in those, makes me feel like I am filling up a dish, rather than

putting 2-3 spoons of something on a great big plate. I also use some

really small utensils to eat with. I plan to find some beautiful

small plates or bowls just for me, and maybe some tiny silver

utensils, so I feel my meals are special. Then when my pouch becomes

larger, I hope I still use the smaller dishes!

After 3-4 days of feeling progressively better, I had a few days

where I slept almost day and night - I think it is my body getting

used to fewer calories. MISTAKE I MADE: not having protein

supplements picked out BEFORE surgery!! Don't plan to do it

afterwards, you'll be too tired. I've ordered some from the vitalady

now, know that will help.

The biggest adjustment was and is learning what " full " feels like.

Resisting drinking with meals is still hard habit to break. I have

had to fight head hunger between meals - learning to keep myself

occupied with other things.

I learned that very cold or hot foods give me a tummy cramp. Thought

I had ripped out something for sure! And one time after eating, my

heart started beating fast and I felt a little weak - that's how I

feel when I have eaten too much! I don't throw up (at least not yet),

I just get the clammy, heart palpitations. It might be different for

everyone.

The best thing I did was ask everybody to please not call or come by.

I have not wanted visitors, I have seemed to need lots of sleep.

Although I physically came through the surgery very well, and have

done great, I think I minimized the fact that this doesn't just

affect your body, it also is a big adjustment in your routine and

habits, in your mind and emotions. Food was/is my addiction, my drug

of choice. So this is probably what emotionally would be the

equivalent of being in Drug Rehab! I'm getting clean! hehe

I was also surprised I lost 12 lbs already. I think I didn't really

believe this would work for me, somehow my body would be different

because I've dieted so hard so many times for nothing.

For the benefit of you pre-ops, or post-ops going through this with

me...my experience so far. I am learning so much from all of you!!

Love,

Peggy Ann