Gastric Bypass Surgery Support Group

Gastric bypass (GBP) is any of a group of similar operative procedures used to treat morbid obesity, a condition which arises from severe accumulation of excess weight in the form of fatty tissue, and the health problems ("co-morbidities") which result. If you are considering gastric bypass or have had it, join the community where we share our experiences and find support.

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Exercise before surgery...

aloharada
aloharada
Ok. So I am having my surgery in about a week and a half. The weight loss program I have been with wants us to walk at least 5,000 steps a day. I try to walk when I can. There are days I don't get to at all and others when I do. However, my team thinks I have been exercising daily. Am I sabotaging myself? Is something bad going to happen during the surgery if I haven't been exercising? I'm scared to tell them the truth in case they call of the surgery. I've already lost about 28 lbs since starting this process do that's a good thing. But I'm just wondering if there is a important reason for exercising prior.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Hello aloharada, I had Gastric Bypass surgery 11 years ago. The rough and Y procedure. I am 5ft 3 and weighed 342 pounds. Today I weigh 160 pounds. I do not think they will call off the surgery if you tell the truth. In fact being honest is the best thing. I believe that like any surgery there are complications that may happen and they just want you in the best possible shape. It really is to aide in your recovery period. It is like when they tell you to stop smoking before surgery. They tell you that so that your lungs will be stronger and recovery period may be a little easier. There are always risks/complications to any surgery and they like for u to do what you can to lessen the possible risks. Losing the 28 pounds is wonderful and you should be proud. I will send you a friend request and I would like if u would keep me posted on this new journey in life you are preparing for.
becca1960
becca1960
Do you count every step you take every day? I ask this because I think that even on the days you are not officially exercising (going for a walk) you are still taking steps... And even if not the full 5,000, you are getting in a portion.

I do not think being honest will prevent surgery. It is obvious you are making changes as you have lost 29 lbs! Which is wonderful!

I believe what they are trying to do is to help you make exercise a part of your life on a regular basis... A new new habit. This is because exercise is a big piece of the puzzle of success for long term.

Tell them, or don't... your call of course! But do not worry that it will mess up your surgery if you are only exercising some days.

Any exercise is better than no exercise... and just keep at it. Now, and post surgery... And as we lose weight, exercise will become easier... And if we make it a priority and a habit... we will be ever so grateful later down the road!!
imjj4short
imjj4short
Hi, hon!

Congrats on the 28 lb loss!! It is good to walk as much as you can from now until surgery. You want to be as fit and healthy as possible. During surgery, your abdomen will be pumped full of gas so they can get to everything...afterwards, your body has to absorb that gas....and it hurts!! Walking is the best way to get the gas moving, to prevent blood clots, and to get your digestive system working again. I don't know about you, but when I started this thing, walking HURT!! I literally had to take Tylenol before I tried to go for a 10 minute walk. Walking before surgery helped me be able to walk the halls after surgery.

Move as much as you can between now and surgery. Yes, it is best to be honest with your healthcare providers.


JJ