I know the holidays can be scary for many of us. The constant thoughts of how to navigate food, events and even the thoughts of possible regain during the holidays can be really overwhelming.
This can be especially scary if you’re already struggling with regain. I get it. As someone who has struggled too, it can be really overwhelming. But you are not alone.
Before I dive into my tips and tricks about regain, I’d like to give you a little backstory.
I had VSG in December of 2017, right smack dab in the middle of the holiday season. From my highest to my lowest weight, I lost 112 lbs, and was able to maintain that weight throughout the first 2 years post-op
In 2020 I had my IUD removed. Suddenly, I regained 15 lbs. It was very frustrating and scary, given my history of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). For the next 2 years, I maintained 15-20 lbs up from my lowest.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Your lowest weight is not always your best weight, and most won’t maintain their lowest and that’s okay. Despite the number, I continued to stick to my habits & prioritize my mental health. I was content.
Despite continuing to be consistent in my routine, the scale crept up more and my PCOS symptoms were worsening again. I decided I no longer was content & wanted to tackle losing this regain at nearly 5 years post-op with the support of a GLP-1 medication.
It can be hard to stay consistent in your routine when you aren’t seeing the results you want, trust me I get it! But going back to restriction and crazy diets isn’t the answer either. Despite not seeing the scale move, I’m grateful I stayed diligent in my routine and asked for help. Remember, obesity is a disease, and you are encouraged to use ALL the tools in your tool box!
I’m often asked “Jamie, what am I doing wrong?” Sometimes it’s not you. And while we ALWAYS need to focus on health and lifestyle choices, sometimes you can be doing all the “right” things and still need another tool.
Here is what I recommend you do to help you stay consistent this holiday season if you’re worried about regain due to all the treats and festivities:
- Continue to eating well: Prioritize protein & fiber at meals, focus on portions, and be mindful of what is on your plate.
- Continue moving your body: Add in mindful movement that fits into your life (like walks in the evenings and stretching before bed).
- Continue prioritizing your mental health: Work on your mindset! This can look like going to therapy, spending time reading or decompressing before bed.
If you need help with any of this or you want to know how to….
- Approach your first holiday season without feeling like you are going to fail
- Navigate the holidays if you’re already struggling with regain
- Enjoy the holidays even of you are still following your post-op diet
- Stop feeling like you have to start over January 1st
Then the T.R.I.B.E. Membership is for you!
If you’re ready to have support and accountability with a community of bariatric peeps who get it, check out The T.R.I.B.E. Membership. You’ll no longer feel lost in the weeds or overwhelmed because you’ll have the information you need when you need it. As a T.R.I.B.E. member, you’ll have exclusive access to live group sessions at a time that suits your busy schedule.
