Back on the Band Wagon

Friday, 20 January 2012 09:50

Like most Lap-Banders, you may fall off the WLS wagon from time to time. Getting back on track is possible, but it does require work.

Reasons for relapse can include limited access to healthy foods, emotional eating fed by depression or discouragement, or simply a matter of poor planning. One main reason WLS patients often resume unhealthy eating habits is the belief that their band will block weight gain.

Whatever the reason, it's never too late to get back on track with these five steps.

1. Own error: Rather than blaming external factors for you relapse, it's important to accept responsibility. Because when all is said and done, you're in control of your weight-loss destiny. Occasional slip-ups are not uncommon when it comes to weight-loss. You're only human. But remember: it's the steps you take now that matter the most.

2. Identify triggers: Next, identify the people, events, or emotions that led to this set-back. Were you anxious? Did you have a bad day? Were you stressed by a spouse or dining at a favorite restaurant? What were you thinking beforehand? Make a list of what triggers these habits, from strongest to weakest. With these in mind, you'll be better equipped to recognize and tackle - or completely avoid - them next time.

3. Remove temptation: Once you're aware of what triggers your bad behaviors, it's important to isolate each issue, and remove what tempts you to relapse. If you know you're stressed at the end of the workday, and your favorite restaurant is on the way home, change your driving route, or put your purse/wallet in the trunk of your car to keep you from pulling into the drive-through. When you get bored do you start snacking? Keep projects or activities on hand to continually occupy you during downtime, or distract yourself with a walk or a phone call to a supportive friend.

4. Strengthen support: Although removing temptation can reduce bad habits, nothing beats the strength of a solid support system. Some good ways to build a strong support group are by getting a sponsor or surrounding yourself with others who are working towards similar goals. Lap-Band support groups can be found in many different places, such as online forums, health clubs, hospitals, or community centers. Click here to visit our forum and support group.

5. Prepare yourself: Like any difficult journey, weight-loss is not an overnight venture. Expect detours and backtracking, but don't allow them to destroy your progress. If you slip up, don't use it as an excuse to throw away all your hard work. Accept that you are human, and ask yourself what you can do to better prepare for the road ahead. Create a great game plan. Accept your faults, know your weaknesses, and form your strategies accordingly.