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Old 07-09-2008, 06:43 AM   #4 (permalink)
Squishy
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Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Southwest Minnesota
Surgeon: Dr. Frederick Harris in Sioux Falls, SD
Age: 47
Posts: 1,460
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Take a deep breath.... OK... let it out slowly....

There, that's a start. It's kind of like that. You have to consciously stop yourself when you start to spin up into an emotional state. No longer having food to soothe yourself is quite a change, so it is only natural that you feel a little panicked at times.

Lisa did a great job of answering your questions in her post. You will be able to eat many of the things that you are craving. Fruit is not gone forever, meat is not gone forever, etc.

This period is really important for you because it will help you break the addictions and habits that have kept you from being healthier in the past. This is your withdrawal period. I think that in some ways it may be more difficult than withdrawal from some drugs or alcohol because you still have to eat. You cannot quit entirely.

Additionally... right now you are focused on what you cannot have. Soon, you will be able to have a lot of things you have not been able to have before because of your weight. You will be able to have more self confidence, more fun, more clothing options, more activity, etc. As your body shrinks physically, you spirit grows and fills all those hollow spaces that we have filled with food in the past. This begins to happen when you are able to look past what you have always done and begin to consider what is possible.

Sometimes it's scary. Our addictions and habits are so strong because they are "safe". We know what to expect, we are instantly comforted by them. I got so used to politely declining invitations because of my weight that it is still awkward for me to accept them, but I am getting better. It was so much easier to stay home in sweat pants with a half gallon of ice cream and a remote control.

Start making a list of things you want to do. Occupy your mind with these positive thoughts instead of focusing on what you cannot have today. Let yourself dream! Dream about the things you and your husband will be able to do together. Plan a vacation. It doesn't have to be expensive or exotic... just get away together.

For a while you will need to consciously choose your emotional state and take action to improve your situation. Not easy... but possible. You may need to talk to your doctor about medical help because your weight loss is causing major hormonal changes in your body that you may need some help to stabilize.

I hope this helps. I know most of us have gone through that rough period and empathize with your situation. But I'd bet that almost everyone will tell you that it is worth it! I know it was for me.

Best wishes!
-Mike-
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