After a 25 year struggle to lose weight, Claude Roy underwent obesity surgery which saw him lose 131 pounds in 6 months. Interview with a man who is finally positive about the future.
WHAT IS YOUR WEIGHT HISTORY?
My weight was within the norm until the age of 30 when I was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder which led me to look to food as a source of comfort. I literally fell in sugar which like a drug froze my emotions and calmed me down.
Photo provided by Claude Roy
Claude Roy peaked at 457 pounds in early 2022.
I developed an eating disorder, I suffered from compulsive eating. My weight has changed tremendously over the years, but in early 2022 I reached my max weight of 457 pounds (for 6 feet).
With the isolation caused by the pandemic, my binge eating disorder has been compounded. TV and binge eating go hand in hand for me!
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE BARIATRIC SURGERY?
Obesity surgery was the option of choice, as my previous attempts with other approaches did not work in the long run.
I was on a waiting list for three years. I wanted this surgery and when Sacré Coeur called me to schedule an appointment, I decided to retire at the same time as I was 55 to focus on my recovery. (…) My health came first.
HOW IS BARIATRIC SURGERY DIFFERENT FROM WHAT YOU HAVE TRIED IN THE PAST?
Bariatric surgery is not an easy fix, both physically and mentally. Still, significant weight loss is motivating. (…) We quickly feel the advantages for mobility.
My physical health improved greatly, I stopped taking blood pressure medication and my blood sugar returned to normal despite being pre-diabetic. My sleep apnea has also improved.
When I’m much better physically, I know I still have a fragility mentally.
WHAT DO YOU DO TO TREAT YOUR OVERPHAGIC DISORDER?
I have long consulted a specialized psychologist who has taught me to name my emotions and address them in ways other than eating sugar. Sugar is an addiction for me like alcohol and drugs are for other people.
A specialized self-help group is also very good for me, I regularly take part in group meetings and have a mentor and a mentor who help me.
WHAT ARE YOUR LIVING HABITS TODAY?
I eat three or four small meals of 1 to 1 1⁄2 cups. I eat small portions and focus on protein first. I also have high protein snacks.
To this day, I stay away from sugar, which is a trigger. I also go for a walk every day.
I want to weigh 260 pounds and I’m taking the time it takes to achieve that goal.
WHAT ARE YOUR BEST TIPS FOR STARTING A WEIGHT LOSS PROCESS?
Psychological resources are helpful, as are support groups.
I’m against restrictive diets, which only work in the short term and fuel compulsive eating.
I would also say walking 24 hours at a time. Goals that are too strict, especially for the summer season, put too much pressure, which can only lead to failure.
We must also avoid isolating ourselves, which is common in the event of a relapse, the support of others is necessary. (…) The ultimate goal of the weight loss process is overall health and not physical appearance.
You have cravings for sugar, I invite you to read this article: isabellehuot.com/blogs/articles/pour-en-end-avec-ces-rages-de-sucre