Lifestyle changes, after bariatric surgery
The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. Post-bariatric surgery, we are going to “change things up”. It’s my job to teach you how to do this.
I educate my clients about what lifestyle changes to make and how to accomplish long-term weight loss. This is not a fad diet. This is a change of habits with a tool to help you to get where you want to be.
The tool alone will not provide you with long-term results. You and the tool together – that’s where the magic happens.
Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure that can help people achieve significant weight loss and improve their overall health. However, many people mistakenly believe that bariatric surgery is a quick fix that will solve all their weight problems. In reality, bariatric surgery is only a tool, and the success of the surgery depends on the patient’s willingness to make long-term lifestyle changes.
After bariatric surgery, it is essential to adopt a healthier lifestyle to maintain long-term weight loss. This involves making significant changes to your eating habits, exercise routine, and sleep schedule. Going back to old habits will bring back the same results, and the patient may regain the weight they have lost.
Here are some important lifestyle changes that patients should make after bariatric surgery to ensure successful weight loss:
Eating a High Protein Diet
One of the most important lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery is to eat a high-protein diet. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue and maintaining a healthy metabolism. It also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, reducing the urge to snack between meals. After bariatric surgery, patients are often advised to eat 3 to 4 small, meals that are high in protein to help maintain their weight loss.
Eliminating Processed/ Refined Carbohydrates and Pre-packed Foods
It is also essential to eliminate processed and refined carbohydrates and pre-packed foods from your diet. These foods are typically high in calories, low in nutrients, and can lead to weight gain. Instead, patients should focus on whole, live, fresh, natural, and good-quality food for their meals. This means cooking most of their meals at home and incorporating more fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats into their diet.
Incorporating a Supplement Regime
After bariatric surgery, the body may have difficulty absorbing certain nutrients from food, which can lead to deficiencies. Patients are often advised to take vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure they get the nutrients they need. It is essential to work with your nutritionist to develop a supplement regime that works for you and to take your supplements as directed.
Incorporating More Movement into Daily Life
Regular exercise is critical for maintaining physical health and weight loss after bariatric surgery. Patients should aim to incorporate more movement into their daily lives, such as taking walks, biking, or swimming. It is essential to find physical activities that are enjoyable and sustainable, making it easier to stick with the exercise routine long term.
Taking Sleep Seriously
Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and it is the most important free medicine. After bariatric surgery, patients should take their sleep schedule seriously and aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Sleep helps to regulate hormones, reduce stress, and promote healthy metabolism, all of which are essential for maintaining weight loss.
Bariatric surgery can be an effective tool for achieving significant weight loss, but it is essential to make long-term lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss and improve overall health. This includes eating a high-protein diet, eliminating processed and refined carbohydrates and pre-packed foods, incorporating a supplement regime, incorporating more movement into daily life, and taking sleep seriously. These lifestyle changes may take time and effort, but they are essential for long-term success after bariatric surgery.
With commitment and dedication, patients can achieve significant weight loss and improve their overall health and quality of life.
I believe in you. Reach out to me with any questions.
Healthy Hugs,
About the Author: Sheri Burke is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and Bariatric Surgery Coordinator at International Patient Facilitators in Tijuana and Cancun, Mexico. She has worked with bariatric surgery clients for over 10 years and especially enjoys providing nutritional guidance to pre and post bariatric clients. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two teens and cooking up a nutritional storm in the kitchen.
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