A Sore but Hopeful Morning
As I stepped onto the scale this morning, the number 470 stared back at me. It’s a far cry from where I started back on July 29th at 503 pounds. Just four days post-surgery, I’m already feeling a mix of progress and growing pains.
The Battle Against Head Hunger
Physically, I’m not hungry—an expected result of my gastric bypass surgery. But “head hunger” is proving to be a formidable opponent. It’s that psychological craving for food, often triggered by emotion, boredom, or habit. I’m learning to distinguish between these mental cues and true physical hunger. My strategy? Staying busy, mindful breathing, and focusing on hydration.
Soreness as a Sign of Recovery
One of the unexpected challenges today has been upper body soreness. It feels like I’ve done an intense round of pushups and sit-ups. Post-surgical soreness, especially around the core, is common as the body heals from the internal and external trauma of surgery. This soreness is my body’s way of saying, “I’m working hard to heal.”
Science in Action: Understanding Post-Surgery Changes
During gastric bypass surgery, not only is the stomach size reduced, but some of the small intestine is bypassed. This combination of restriction and malabsorption significantly limits calorie absorption and helps to reduce weight rapidly. This soreness I feel could partly be from the body adjusting to the internal surgical changes and a reduction in inflammation as I lose weight.
The Plan for the Day: Embracing Life Beyond Food
Today, my wife and I are heading to Tulsa for some Christmas shopping. I’m looking forward to spending quality time with her and diving into the holiday spirit. Traveling post-op might seem daunting, but light activities and staying hydrated will keep me on track.
Staying the Course
Though these early days are tough, I remind myself that every step, every discomfort, is a part of this incredible journey. My goal isn’t just a smaller number on the scale but a life full of energy, movement, and purpose.
About Me
My name is Patrick Bass, a 55-year-old on a life-changing weight loss journey. I’m also the host of The Patrick Bass Show, a podcast ranked in the top 5% worldwide, where I share insights on personal growth and resilience. Follow my journey and connect with me through my website (https://www.pwbass.com).
📧 Email: info@pwbass.com
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