The bariatric journey (1.)
Okay, ladies (and maybe gentlemen), let's talk about weight loss. Although... actually, no. That word is terribly misleading. Weight loss does not describe what a certain part of our population experiences, struggles with, and deals with every day. There are people who, for various reasons, are simply overweight. And I'm not talking about a few extra pounds that sometimes elicit admiration, especially in men. I'm talking about the harsh reality—excess weight that is no longer just a cosmetic problem but a health threat. And no matter what obese influencers say, there is a line where being chubby ends and a health problem begins.
I want to share my journey with you—the journey of someone who has been struggling with excess weight for more than 20 years. This is the first part of a series of articles in which I will show you my perspective on the matter. I will talk about what I have tried, what kinds of help I have sought, and what I have had to realize. I'll tell you how I learned to analyze my mistakes, stop making excuses, set realistic goals, and finally, what bariatric surgery is like and what happens after it.
The myth of weight loss
I'll start with what I think about weight loss in general. The word itself promises quick change, as if a few weeks of dieting would be enough and everything would be fine. But that's not how it works. In reality, it's about changing your lifestyle and mindset. I had to admit to myself that it wasn't about "losing weight and having peace of mind," but about learning to live differently in the long term.
I tried countless diets, pills, miracle drinks, and experts promising quick results. And let's be honest—it worked for a while. But as soon as I went back to my normal routine, the pounds came back. Disappointment was followed by frustration and a feeling of failure. What was I doing wrong? Why did it never last? And that's when I began to understand that the key is not weight loss itself, but lasting change.
The reality of bariatric surgery
After years of struggle, I began to consider bariatric surgery. It was a huge dilemma for me, but in the end, I decided to take the plunge. Surgery is not a magic procedure that will solve everything. It's just a tool—a helping hand on the road to better health. But if you don't come to terms with yourself and start working on your mindset, even surgery won't help. And I made that decision. If you're on the same path, maybe my experience will help you a little.
But where to start?
I want you to keep one thing in mind: A ton of articles won't help you if you don't decide to really change something yourself. You can read hundreds of stories and get motivated on social media, but until the decision comes from within you, the results won't be permanent. It's not easy, and no one can force you to do it. But once you decide, you're on the right track.
In future articles, I will share my experiences with the surgery, recovery, and life after. If you are considering bariatric surgery or looking for inspiration for your journey, I would love to have you join me. And remember—we all have different stories, different bodies, and different possibilities. Be kind to yourself and give yourself a chance to change your life.
In the meantime, you can share your thoughts in the comments. What do you consider obesity? Have you ever struggled with extra weight, or do you have no experience with diets?
