Tag: #WeightLossSurgery

Reintroducing My 2018 Bariatric Journey | Why I Chose Sleeve Gastrectomy

Lisa Kidd

Today, I’m sharing a very personal piece of my past — my original 2018 introduction video from when I first talked openly about my health struggles and the road that led me to Sleeve Gastrectomy. As I relaunch my channel under Bariatric Living 101, I felt it was important to bring this video with me. It’s the foundation of everything I’ve learned and everything I share today.

My Health Was Declining, and I Knew Something Had to Change

Back in 2018, I was facing several developing health issues that were affecting my everyday life. I didn’t feel like myself anymore, and it became clear that something had to change. Bariatric surgery wasn’t an easy decision, but it was a necessary one — a medically supported choice to reclaim my health and my future.

Why I’m Sharing This Video Again

Many people who follow me now weren’t here in 2018. They may be just beginning their own bariatric journey or researching sleeve gastrectomy. I wanted to reintroduce this video to remind new viewers (and even myself) where this all started.

This video is raw, honest, and full of emotion — and it represents the moment I chose hope.

A New Chapter with Bariatric Living 101

Bariatric Living 101 is all about living a protein-forward, low-carb lifestyle after bariatric surgery. Today, I share recipes, tips, honest experiences, and real-life bariatric living — but it all began with the story you’ll see in this video.

Whether you’re researching surgery, newly post-op, or years into the journey, I hope this video helps you feel supported, encouraged, and understood.

Watch the Video

👉 Be sure to watch the full introduction on my YouTube channel and subscribe so you don’t miss the rest of my rediscovered videos from earlier in my journey.

If you’re comfortable, I’d love for you to share your story in the comments — you never know who your words might encourage.

How to Stay on Track While Traveling: My Bariatric-Friendly Vacation Tips

Lisa Kidd

Traveling is one of my favorite things—new places, new foods, visiting friends and family, and stepping outside of the normal daily routine. But when you’ve had bariatric surgery or you’re trying to maintain a protein-forward, low-carb lifestyle, vacation can feel a little intimidating.

The good news? With a little planning and a few simple habits, you can stay on track and fully enjoy your trip. These are the exact tips I used on my recent vacation, and they made all the difference!

1. Pre-Plan Your Food for the Road

Before leaving home, I always pack protein-forward, travel-friendly snacks so I’m never stuck without options. Things like protein shakes, jerky, cheese sticks, low-carb snacks, and even my portable Ninja blender help me stay consistent.

Packing a few staples also prevents those “last-minute drive-thru” decisions that can happen when hunger hits. When your protein is covered, everything else becomes easier.

2. Enjoy a Picnic at Rest Stops

One of my favorite parts of road trips is stopping at a rest area with my husband, spreading out our little cooler, and having a healthy picnic.

Fresh air, shade trees, a little walk to stretch your legs—it’s such a peaceful way to break up the drive. It also keeps us from stopping at fast-food restaurants where choices can be more tempting.

It’s simple, budget-friendly, and keeps you in control of your food choices.

3. Prioritize Hydration (Especially Because of Swelling!)

Traveling—especially long car rides—can make you swell. That’s why staying hydrated is so important. I always bring my refillable water bottle and pack plenty of sugar-free drink packets so I can make flavored water anywhere.

Hydration helps:
✔ Reduce swelling
✔ Keep you energized
✔ Prevent mindless snacking
✔ Support digestion

It’s such a small thing that makes a huge difference in how you feel on vacation.

4. Don’t Skip Your Vitamins + Supplements

Just because you’re out of your routine doesn’t mean your vitamins take a vacation! I pack all of mine in a travel organizer and make it part of my morning ritual—even while away.

Travel tip:
If you ever forget your prescription or can’t get it refilled before your trip, you can call a local pharmacy where you’re staying. They can contact your pharmacy back home and transfer the prescription for you (as long as you’re in the area for a few days).

5. Make Smart Choices While Eating Out

Eating at restaurants is part of the fun of traveling—but it doesn’t have to throw you off track. My husband and I almost always share a plate, which helps with portion control and reduces waste.

I choose protein-first meals like:
• Grilled chicken or steak
• Seafood
• Bunless burgers
• Veggie sides instead of heavy carbs

You don’t have to be perfect—just choose the best option available and enjoy the experience.

6. Most of All… Enjoy Your Vacation

This is the part people forget: you are allowed to enjoy your trip.
You’re allowed to relax, taste new foods, spend time with people you love, and take in the sights.

Staying healthy doesn’t mean missing out—it just means being mindful and making choices that support how you want to feel.

Travel is about memories, not macros.

Final Thoughts

With a little planning and a few intentional habits, staying on track during vacation becomes much easier. Pack your protein, hydrate, bring your vitamins, choose wisely at restaurants, and embrace the moments that make traveling special.

You deserve to feel your best—no matter where you are. 💛

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Packing for a Bariatric-Friendly Vacation: My Protein-Forward Travel Essentials

Lisa Kidd

Heading out on vacation soon? Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a few weeks with family, staying on track with your bariatric goals while traveling doesn’t have to be hard! I’ve learned that a little preparation makes all the difference. In this post, I’m sharing what I pack for a bariatric-friendly trip — everything from my protein staples to my daily vitamins — so you can stay consistent, feel your best, and still enjoy your time away.

🧳 My Bariatric Travel Essentials

1. Protein Shakes & Drinks
Protein is the foundation of my day, so I always make sure to pack my favorite ready-to-drink shakes. They’re quick, easy, and keep me full when I’m on the go.

2. Sugar-Free Syrups
Coffee is a must when traveling — but I love flavor without the sugar! I bring a few of my Jordan’s Skinny Syrups in travel-size bottles for quick, guilt-free flavor options wherever I go.

3. Portable Ninja Blender & Frother
These are game-changers for making protein coffee, shakes, or even quick smoothies right in the hotel room. My frother takes up almost no space and gives me that coffee shop feel every morning!

4. Vitamins & Medications
Routine is key. I pack a weekly pill organizer with all my bariatric vitamins and any medications, so I never miss a day — even with a busy travel schedule.

5. Protein Snacks
A few go-to travel snacks like protein bars, jerky, or low-carb cheese crisps help me avoid airport temptations and stay satisfied between meals.

🌟 Tips for Staying on Track While Traveling

  • Plan ahead: Bring what you know works for you instead of hoping to find it on the road.
  • Hydrate often: Flights, long drives, and salty snacks can sneak up on you — keep a refillable water bottle handy.
  • Don’t stress perfection: Vacations are about balance — enjoy the experience, make mindful choices, and get back on track with your next meal.

💬 Final Thoughts

Traveling after bariatric surgery doesn’t mean leaving your healthy habits behind. With a little planning, you can feel confident, prepared, and ready to enjoy your vacation — protein shake in hand!

If you want to see exactly how I packed for my trip, check out my YouTube video where I show all my bariatric-friendly travel essentials! 🎥