Most frequently asked VSG questions – Part 1!

Every day I get questions, and it seems like lots of you have the same ones. So… I thought I’d collate these in the one place to make it easier for you! This is part one of two as there are quite a few to tackle.

If you’re more into video, you can watch the following two videos in which I explain the answers to each of the questions below in more detail:

• Part 1: https://youtu.be/T0vATU7mw2Y
• Part 2: https://youtu.be/Nq9Dwaidhog 

In addition, I’ve also put a whole bunch of links in to other posts or resources I’ve written that will help to explain the answers in more detail so you can delve deeper into the questions that apply to you!

So let’s get to it! First things first….

Did I stretch my stomach? 

You can get some stretch in your pouch over time (years post op) and research says your stomach can stretch up to 50% compared to what it was initially after the surgery. However it is VERY unlikely that you have stretched your pouch back to what it was before surgery! Instead of worrying about stretching your stomach, really focus on what and how you are eating. This post I wrote a little while ago, explains things in more detail for you:

Will my stomach stretch after sleeve gastrectomy?

Is it too late for me? 

If you’re thinking it’s too late to go back to check in with your surgeon or to capitalise on your surgery – I’m here to tell you it’s not! Your surgery has been done, it is still there and your team will always be happy to see you regardless of how long it’s been since your surgery! So please please please call them asap to book in and discuss things. If you didn’t feel supported by your team, then now is the time to find a new one! It is never too late! Feel free to shoot me an email if you need a hand figuring out where to start.

How much protein do I need? 

The ASMBS recommends to aim for 60-80g/protein a day, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend your precious time recording and counting them. Make sure your main meals (BF, L, D) are ½ protein ½ veg, and if you’re hungry in between meals on the odd occasion make sure your snack has some protein in it. If you do this, chances are you are getting enough protein. If you’re really concerned, track for a day or two for some reassurance or some awareness of where you could improve. This post below also has some more information on the best protein sources and how to incorporate them:

Protein after sleeve gastrectomy – how much is enough?

Are weight loss stalls normal? 

Most of the time weight loss stalls are normal and are a part of the process. First things first, don’t beat yourself up! Check if your weight has actually stalled and if you have hit a plateau, check your habits and don’t be afraid to ask for help! If you’re not sure what normal is then check out this post:

6 simple tips to beat a weight loss stall

And if you need a bit more help getting things back on track then check out my Back on Track 6 week reset here: https://www.livingwithasleeve.com/product/back-on-track-reset/

How do I combat stress eating? 

If you’re stress eating, you’re most likely eating more than you need which can cause weight regain or stalls plus makes you feel guilty and adding to the stress! Instead of comfort eating, see if you can find other healthy ways to deal with stress such as reaching out to a friend, going outside for some fresh air or using mindfulness techniques and learning to eat intuitively. This post I wrote recently explains how stress can sabotage weight loss after surgery and what you can do to combat it:

How stress sabotages weight loss after surgery