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As I prepare for my gastric bypass surgery, I can’t help but reflect on the past six weeks. This pre-op phase has been intense, both physically and mentally. For those of you considering weight loss surgery or just curious about the experience, I wanted to share an honest look at what these weeks have been like.
For nearly six weeks, I’ve been on a strict liquid diet. Meal replacement shakes and low-calorie soups have been my staples, and my daily intake has been around 800-900 kcal. The result? I’ve lost 12.2 kg (about 27 lbs) so far. It’s been encouraging to see the weight drop, but as any mother will understand, the emotional side of this journey has been just as challenging as the physical one.
Balancing Motherhood and Weight Loss Surgery Prep
One of the hardest parts of this pre-op process has been continuing with the everyday routines of motherhood, especially making dinner for my family. In the beginning, it wasn’t too bad—almost like a mental exercise. But as the weeks went on, it became a real struggle to prepare food that I couldn’t enjoy.
The toughest part? I started to resent my husband for not stepping in to make dinner so I didn’t have to face the temptation. I found myself thinking, “Why isn’t he offering to help when I’m going through this for our family, too?” But then it hit me—I never actually asked him. It was all in my head. Once I finally expressed my feelings, he was more than happy to take over. Sometimes we get so caught up in the sacrifices we’re making during this weight loss surgery journey that we forget our loved ones don’t always know how to help.
Changing my mindset was key here. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to help; I needed to communicate my needs better. I’ve realized that this gastric bypass journey is as much about emotional growth as it is about physical transformation.
A Lesson from Gastric Bypass Prep About Food
As challenging as this pre-op liquid diet has been, it’s also been incredibly eye-opening. I’ve come to a critical realization: I don’t need food the way I thought I did—I just wanted it. This has been one of the biggest mental shifts I’ve had to make. For anyone going through weight loss surgery, this lesson is essential. It’s not just about shrinking your stomach; it’s about rethinking your relationship with food entirely.
The gastric bypass is just a tool to help me along this journey. It’s not a magic fix, but it’s going to give me the chance to nourish my body in a healthier way. This journey is about learning how to listen to my body’s true needs, not just its cravings.
Navigating My Son’s Curiosity
Another unexpected challenge during this pre-op phase has been explaining my new eating habits to my 4-year-old. Being a mother adds a unique layer to this experience, because, as many of you know, little ones notice everything. My son has started to ask questions like, “Mama, why aren’t you eating dinner?” At first, it tugged at my heart. I didn’t want him to feel like something was wrong or that I was missing out on family time because of the surgery.
So, I sat him down and explained in simple terms that I was not eating right now, but soon I will be joining him again at the table. For now, I’ve been sitting with them during mealtimes, sipping my soup while they enjoy their meals. It’s become part of our new normal, and he’s adjusted better than I expected. Being open with him has made this part of the journey easier, and it’s reminded me that balancing motherhood and weight loss surgery is about being patient and flexible.
Gastric Bypass Surgery as a Tool for a Healthier Future
As I look forward to my gastric bypass surgery, I feel a mix of emotions—excitement, nerves, and, honestly, a bit of relief. The pre-op phase hasn’t been easy, but it’s given me a taste of the discipline I’ll need moving forward. I’m learning that food doesn’t control me. This weight loss surgery will be a powerful tool to help me live a healthier life, but I know it’s going to take continued mental and emotional work.
For those of you on a similar path, I want you to know that it’s okay to struggle. It’s okay to feel frustrated or overwhelmed. This is a process, and like any major life change—especially one involving motherhood—it takes time. The important thing is to stay focused on why you’re doing this and to give yourself grace along the way.
Thanks for following along on my journey so far. I’m excited (and a little nervous!) to share the next steps with you as I head into surgery and beyond. Stay tuned for more updates as I continue this adventure toward a healthier, happier life post-gastric bypass!
