Embracing Your New Lifestyle 

Making the Choice

Deciding to undergo a weight loss procedure is a big decision and one that should be taken seriously. Western Bariatric Institute offers a variety of different procedures to fit our client’s individual needs and will craft a plan that will help you make an informed decision to whether weight loss surgery is the right option for you.

Weight loss surgery is known commonly as bariatric surgery and involves surgical procedures done to the stomach and intestines to help the patient lose weight in a safe and slow manner. WBI offers three surgical procedures: Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB), Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Adjustable Gastric Banding.

Life After Surgery

After your surgery, your entire life will change. Having the surgery performed will not only change who you are as a person, but it will change your entire outlook on life. It may seem hard at first, impossible even, but there is a bright, shining light at the finish line.

Whether you have chosen LapBand, Gastric Bypass, the Vertical Sleeve or the non-surgical route, the moment you have finished your program is the moment that the lifestyle you had become comfortable will disappear. Now, you have a whole new world of possibilities and options in front you, yours for the taking. This is your chance to try all the things you’ve always wanted to try, to really get out of your comfort zone and tackle the tasks at hand.

The best way to accomplish this is to sit down and make a list. Start with some small goals first, goals you will be able to easily reach and mark off your list. It’s not silly, it’s science! Small, easily accomplished goals boost self-esteem and self-confidence. Do you have a large goal you’d like to see yourself reach? A competition, a marathon, scaling a mountain? The sky is the limit. If you are trying to accomplish finishing a marathon, start with running a few blocks… then maybe a few more next week. The week after you will feel like you can go a little longer… and a little longer… until you’ve ran a mile. It’s all about building, the hardest part is starting.

Working out

People that consistently work out find ways to enjoy it. Working out shouldn’t be mundane, what’s an activity you’ve always wanted to try? Swimming, softball, basketball, rock climbing! This is your chance to take back control of your life. Don’t forget to mix up your routine. After 6 – 8 weeks of consistency, your body will adapt. Try speeding up your workouts, slowing them down, swimming on Monday and cycling on Wednesday, don’t let yourself or your body get bored.

Western Bariatric Institute is always a resource too, our relationship does not end after surgery. Beginning a new lifestyle is going to be a shock to your body, so it’s best to work up to your goals slowly and steadily. Depending on the type of weight loss surgery you undergo, your personal physician will help you design a plan that it is perfectly unique to you and your system. We will be an active participant in your recovery and a helping hand for healthy dieting tips, exercise plans and portion management. Remembering to drink plenty of water and watching what you put into your body will kickstart your plan and train your brain to crave healthy snacks and meals, rather than unhealthy alternatives.

As you go through your training regime, you will begin to enjoy it, we promise! Dressing for comfort is a must, and there’s nothing more satisfying than working out in an outfit and watching your progress to purchasing smaller sizes. There are a few important things to remember when you start your training routine:

1. Proper form
2. Stay hydrated
3. Listen to your body, don’t over exert yourself. 
4. Rest, it’s important. 
5. Be proud of yourself, this is the new you! Embrace it!

Changing your lifestyle is a huge step in life, be positive! You need to be your biggest support system. Positive self-talk, logged progression and patience are going to be the most important things to focus on. Breaking larger goals into smaller, tinier goals will slowly help you reach heights you never thought were possible.

So, what’s your inspiration? Write down all the reasons you want to change, save photographs of your goals, and keep yourself present, you got this! If you have any questions or concerns regarding your surgery, behavior modification plan or diet, do not hesitate to call Western Bariatric Institute. We will address any and all concerns and help you stay on track to ensure your success.