Ro lost 123 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Ro lost 123 pounds. She had high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, knee problems and back issues. She has no regrets about having Gastric Sleeve weight loss surgery and says that people should stop thinking of surgery as the easy way out. Check out her story.

I have come a very long way. I made a promise to myself that I will NEVER weigh 413 pounds ever again. 2 years later, I have kept that promise. Having Gastric Sleeve surgery on Jan 24, 2017 was the best decision I have ever made. I had setbacks many times over, but I always get back on track. My journey is not only my journey, but it’s my story… custom made for me.

I had high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, and annoying knee and back issues. Tried Weight Watchers in 2015, for a year BEFORE I decided to have surgery. I lost 58 pounds, but I gained all of it back. My primary doctor told me that the only way I could keep the weight off was weight loss surgery and I have. My next goal is to have a Mommy Makeover to get rid of all the loose skin.

How did you change your eating habits?
Since having surgery, my portions are smaller. I started eating lots of vegetables and became a pescatarian. I eat red meat every now and then for my protein intake, which is 90 grams a day. I also try to eat my meals before 6 pm. Sometimes, I don’t have an appetite so I’ll drink a protein shake. Drinking lots of water is essential as well.

What did your workout routine consist of?
I walk, and I dance. I dance at home every day. I walk three days a week.

What was your starting weight?
My starting weight was 383 pounds. My current weight is 289.6 pounds.

What is your height?
5’6″

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
I learned not to stress or worry about gaining weight. You have to retrace your steps and go back to see what caused you to gain. I also learned to write down what I eat.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Take it one day at a time. Don’t over think the process because it will make you anxious. Never deprive yourself of what you want. It’s ok to have a treat now and then. Eat smaller portions, drink lots of water or tea, and avoid sugar and bread if you can. Also, having a support team behind you makes the journey tolerable.

On weight loss surgery…
People are quick to say, “You took the easy way out.” However, there is much more to this journey than people think. You have to get referred go to the surgery seminar and meet with a surgeon to get blood work and an EKG to make sure your heart is healthy. You have to meet with a psychologist and a nutritionist/dietician. You have to follow a diet plan to lose weight before surgery.

It requires visits with your primary doctor and my surgeon every other month until the day before surgery. Then, you have post-op visits for blood work to check your vitamin levels make sure you eat enough protein. Not to mention, seeing what your new stomach likes and doesn’t like. I could go on and on, but you get the idea. Stop saying it’s the easy way out because it’s not.

Instagram: @ro_culinaryboss