After weight loss surgery, there can be a rush you get when you step on the scale and see that number decreasing! It\u2019s an amazing feeling to see the pounds fall off so rapidly. Bariatric surgery is life changing and it\u2019s not just because of the pounds that are lost\u2026but also for all the things that are gained after surgery.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
There\u2019s so much to celebrate after weight loss surgery and sometimes things can get overlooked because we\u2019re so fixated on the number on the scale. Non-scale victories (NSV\u2019s) are often even better indicators of our progress than weight alone, because they give us a more overall look at our health. The scale shows us one moment in time, but non-scale victories show improvement over time. NSV\u2019s may go unnoticed if we only focus on what the scale says.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Weighing yourself daily can be a deterrent to weight loss. It only paints a small picture of the actual progress you\u2019re making \u2013 and if you hit a stall, it can decrease your motivation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
There are unlimited things out there to consider when celebrating your successes\u2026Take notice of just some of the following NSV\u2019s:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Improved Energy \u2013 can keep up with the kids\/grandkids.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Improved Fitness<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Improved Sleep<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Body Composition \u2013 clothes fit better, looser, one notch smaller on your belt, fitting into an airplane seat or booth at a restaurant, tying your shoe or putting on socks without getting winded<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Less Pain \u2013 easier to walk up the stairs \u2013 less stress on joints<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Improved Mood \u2013 Feel more positive and better about yourself.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Improved Cognition \u2013 better focus and memory<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Improved Medical Conditions \u2013 blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, etc. Reduction or elimination of medications.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Because we tend to NOT recognize our own victories, and our mind plays tricks when looking in the mirror, we suggest the following:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Take pictures periodically throughout your entire journey (and DON\u2019T FORGET to take the dreaded \u201cbefore\u201d surgery photo). On the days you feel defeated by the scale, take the photos and line them up side by side. Seeing your progression through photos will lift your spirits.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Try something new \u2013 you might just surprise yourself.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Learn to accept and love yourself again \u2013 one of the most amazing non scale victories out there!<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Recognize and celebrate these accomplishments. You should be proud of every single non-scale victory you achieve.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n