One of the most important aspects of changing your mindset is keeping yourself motivated to reach your goal. Don’t get frustrated if you are lacking inspiration at the moment, here are some fun tips and tricks you can apply throughout your journey.

First, it’s important to focus not only on scale-victories but on your many other achievements as well. Notice that you might have an easier time working out, or that your clothes no longer feel as tight, you will also find yourself making better food choices and getting rid of bad habits. Highlighting these changes is always important so you do not get discouraged when you, for example, hit the plateau. Your body will always be changing for the better if you keep up with your healthy routine.

Another thing you can try is keeping a journal. This can be an outlet for your feelings even before undergoing your surgery. Being emotional is completely normal before, during, and after surgery and we believe that letting said emotions out, even on the pages of a diary, will help lift a weight off your shoulders. It can also be a great way to realize later in your journey how those fears, insecurities, and doubts are long gone and your logs have become more positive and optimistic.

Something similar you might enjoy is sharing your weightloss journey online. Whether its a text-only blog detailing your experience or a photo-diary on a platform such as instagram, you will find that 1) people going through the same experience can find help in knowing they’re not alone, 2) you might inspire someone to begin their own weight loss journey, or 3) later on, you might want to look back at your earlier posts and realize how much you have changed physically and mentally. Don’t hold back from following other bariatric patients on their journeys. Everyone’s experience is different but you are all working towards a common goal. Remember, community and support is key!

You can also use one of the many bariatric apps to keep yourself on track. Seeing how you’ve progressed since you started losing weight and how your food choices keep getting better and better will help keep you on the healthy path.

Let them know that they’re not alone in this journey and, like us, you’re there every step of the way. 

Last but most importantly, strong relationships. Together is better, so ask friends and family to join you in your activities, let them hold you accountable for your workouts and diet. You’re not alone in this journey. This is why we always circle back to our private Facebook Patient Support Group, mostly because having a large group of people rooting for each other’s success is a great source of encouragement and motivation. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share your experiences, and be completely honest how you’re feeling because it’s likely that more than one person has gone through the same thing and is more than happy to give you some advice. Plus, our team and Dr. Ismael are constantly checking the group’s feed, answering questions, and providing words of encouragement. 

If you’re feeling discouraged or frustrated because of lack of motivation, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You can also talk to us through our social media:

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Dr. Ismael Bailon

Dr. Ismael Bailon Facebook

Did a loved one recently undergo weight loss surgery? Good for them! As you know, having a strong support system is crucial for bariatric patients, as this  life changing decision  is a very emotional one and it might have its ups and downs. There are many ways you can be a part of their weight loss journey. Trust us, It will benefit them greatly and we’re pretty sure it may start to benefit you and your health in the long run!

First of all, try to join in on their diet once the seven stages of their pre-op diet are over. You might have to adjust a few of the portions since theirs will be much smaller, but cooking healthy meals for the whole family can make them feel less like an outsider. Another thing you can do, food wise, is avoid having junk food in the house. 

This will help avoid unhealthy snacking and/or cravings. Fill your cupboards and fridge with healthy food instead! As you know, sticking to a meal plan is only part of the effort. 

You also have to maintain an active lifestyle! Encourage them by exercising together! It’s always more fun to have a gym buddy to share your workout routine with. You can hold each other accountable and make sure you’re both being constant. Since walking is such a crucial step at the start of your weightloss journey, this can also be a great opportunity to get to know many hiking trails around your area and enjoy the scenery.

Patients tend to focus on the changes in the scale. Remind them of the many little victories like walking 5 minutes more than usual, or having to resize their favorite pair of pants! As always, try to celebrate victories with things that don’t involve food or alcohol. 

It’s better to not associate empty calories with rewards. Instead, you can plan a weekend getaway,  a shopping trip, flowers,  maybe bring them breakfast in bed?

Lastly, give them lots of love and affection. They are undergoing many changes in every aspect of their lives and in a very quick way. It’s normal for them to be overwhelmed sometimes, so create a safe space for them to express themselves, their feelings, their frustrations, and their thoughts.

Let them know that they’re not alone in this journey and, like us, you’re there every step of the way. 

For a greater sense of community, we encourage you to join our support group and follow us on social media for tips, motivational content, and delicious recipes.

Facebook Diabetes Obesity Clinic 

Instagram @diabetesobesityclinic

Youtube Channel Diabetes Obesity Clinic