My Healthy Living Journey
I have really missed sharing my healthy living journey here on the blog. Life has changed in so many ways over the last few years, and now I am ready to get back to documenting my progress, ups, downs, and all.
In June 2023, I had Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) surgery to help me reach a healthier weight. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. After surgery, I lost 90 pounds and finally felt comfortable and confident in my own skin again.
By September 2024, I took another big step and had a tummy tuck to remove excess skin after the massive weight loss. The healing process took time, but seeing the results made it all worthwhile.
Then something unexpected happened. After receiving steroid injections in my knees for joint pain, my weight crept back up from 168 to 187 pounds in just a few months. It was discouraging to watch the scale rise after working so hard to lose the weight, but I knew giving up was not an option.
That is when I decided to try a GLP-1 medication to help me get back on track. I started Zepbound at 2.5 mg and now, four weeks in, I am already down 11 pounds. It is exciting to see the scale moving in the right direction again and to feel my energy return.
If you have had bariatric surgery or you are considering GLP-1 medications like Zepbound, Mounjaro, or Ozempic, I want to share a few lessons I have learned that might help you reach your goals faster and stay consistent.
5 Proven VSG and GLP-1 Weight Loss Tips
1. Track Your Protein and Calories Daily
After VSG surgery or while taking Zepbound, your stomach capacity and appetite change dramatically. Tracking your meals helps you stay on target. Focus on 60 to 80 grams of protein daily and watch your overall calorie intake to prevent regain.
2. Stay Hydrated but Time Your Water Right
Hydration is essential for fat loss and digestion. Aim for 64 ounces of water a day, but avoid drinking 30 minutes before and after meals. This helps your smaller stomach digest food more efficiently and prevents discomfort.
3. Move Your Body Every Day
You do not need an intense gym routine to lose weight. Walking, stretching, or yoga can make a huge difference. Movement supports your metabolism and helps manage joint pain, especially if you have had knee issues like me.
4. Listen to Your Fullness Cues
Both VSG and GLP-1 medications make you feel full faster. Learn to stop eating as soon as you are satisfied. Pushing past that limit can cause nausea and slow your progress. Mindful eating helps you maintain long-term success.
5. Give Yourself Grace and Stay Consistent
Weight loss is not a straight line. There will be plateaus, medication adjustments, and emotional moments. Celebrate small victories and remember that consistency beats perfection. You are rebuilding healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are just starting your bariatric surgery journey or exploring GLP-1 medications like Zepbound, know that progress takes time and patience. Every pound lost is proof of your effort, discipline, and resilience.
I am excited to keep sharing more of my healthy living tips, high-protein recipes, and real VSG updates here on the blog. If this post helped or inspired you, leave a comment below and share it with someone on a similar journey.
No comments:
Post a Comment