This simply works as a guide and helps you to connect with doctors of your choice. Please confirm the doctor’s availability before leaving your premises.
Emergency bariatric care may be needed if you experience severe abdominal pain, complications from weight loss surgery, or symptoms of nutritional deficiencies.
I invite you to give my “Bariatric One Pan Meal Plan” a try. It boasts a high protein content and is ideally portioned for the bariatric pouch. This approach not only minimizes food waste but also trims down your grocery expenses.
Additionally, we’ll prepare a surplus for the following day’s lunch, streamlining your cooking to just one meal per day, plus a straightforward breakfast. For those with larger families, don’t hesitate to double up on the recipes.
About the Author: Sheri Burkeis 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.
Embarking on a bariatric journey is a transformative experience, and one of the key components of success lies in how we nourish our bodies. It’s not just about what you eat, but how you approach every eating opportunity. In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of making the most of your meals by choosing nutrient-dense options that satisfy your hunger, prevent snacking, and safeguard against nutrient deficiencies.
Mindful Choices for Optimal Nourishment: Every meal and snack presents an opportunity to fuel your body with the nutrients it needs. Opting for nutrient-dense foods over refined and processed carbohydrates can make a significant impact on your bariatric journey. Instead of wasting space on empty calories, prioritize foods rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein. This approach not only supports your weight loss goals but also contributes to overall health and well-being.
Enhancing Satisfaction and Curbing Snacking: When you choose nutrient-dense foods, your body receives the nourishment it craves, leading to greater satisfaction after meals. These foods are typically lower in calories while providing a greater sense of fullness due to their fiber and protein content. As a result, you’re less likely to experience the urge to snack on less nutritious options between meals. This can be particularly helpful in maintaining a consistent eating schedule and managing portion control.
Guarding Against Nutrient Deficiencies: Bariatric surgery, while effective in promoting weight loss, can also impact nutrient absorption. Prioritizing nutrient-dense foods can help guard against potential deficiencies that could arise post-surgery. By choosing foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals, you’re providing your body with the building blocks it needs for optimal function, energy, and recovery. Regularly consuming a variety of nutrient-dense options can contribute to long-term health and vitality.
Practical Tips for Nutrient-Dense Eating:
Plan Meals Mindfully: Take time to plan balanced meals that include lean protein sources, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Choose Whole Foods: Opt for whole, unprocessed foods over packaged and refined options to maximize nutritional content.
Prioritize Protein: Include protein-rich foods in every meal to support muscle health and promote satiety.
Embrace Colorful Variety: Different colors in your plate signify a range of nutrients, so aim for a colorful array of fruits and vegetables.
Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports digestion and overall health, so remember to drink water throughout the day.
Your bariatric journey is a commitment to health and well-being, and every meal presents an opportunity to honor that commitment. By choosing nutrient-dense foods over refined and processed carbohydrates, you can enhance satisfaction, reduce snacking tendencies, and safeguard against nutrient deficiencies.
Remember, nourishing yourself is an act of self-care that can lead to long-term success. Embrace each eating opportunity as a chance to fuel your body with the nutrients it deserves. Your journey is worth every mindful bite.
Healthy Hugs,
About the Author: Sheri Burkeis 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.
Embarking on a bariatric journey is a courageous decision that can bring significant positive changes to one’s life. However, it’s normal to face challenges along the way, such as weight regain. If you’ve experienced this setback, know that you’re not alone. In this supportive blog, we’ll explore practical and compassionate strategies to help you reclaim control of your health and get back on track after bariatric surgery.
Weight regain after bariatric surgery can be disheartening, but it’s essential to remember that it can occur, especially during challenging life circumstances such as job changes, loss of loved ones, or divorce. Rather than being self-critical, acknowledge that life’s ups and downs can impact our routines and eating habits. Be gentle with yourself and focus on finding a positive way forward.
When facing weight regain, seeking support is crucial. Reach out to your bariatric support group, friends, or family members who can offer understanding and encouragement. Additionally, reconnect with your bariatric nutritionist to discuss your challenges openly. They can provide valuable insights, adjustments to your dietary plan, and offer non-judgmental guidance to help you regain focus.
Take time to reflect on the lifestyle habits that might have contributed to the weight regain. Have there been changes in your eating patterns, physical activity, or stress management? Identifying triggers and patterns will empower you to make necessary adjustments to support your weight loss goals.
Avoid restrictive diets or fad weight loss approaches. Instead, focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods. Portion control, mindful eating, and regular meal planning can help you make healthier choices and avoid impulsive eating during stressful times.
Exercise is not only essential for weight management but also for overall well-being. Engage in physical activities you enjoy, whether it’s walking, swimming, dancing, or yoga. Aim for consistency rather than intensity, and remember that every small step counts.
Life’s challenges can trigger emotional eating or disordered eating habits. Prioritize self-care and stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or spending time in nature. Reach out to a therapist or counselor if you find that emotional struggles are impacting your eating habits.
Experiencing weight regain after bariatric surgery is not a failure; it’s an opportunity to refocus and make positive changes. Remember, you have a strong support system and professional guidance available. Embrace a compassionate mindset, adopt healthier habits, and take small steps towards reclaiming your health and well-being. You can do this!
You can always email me at s.burke@ipf-mail.com, or call me at 1 800 210 5124, or reach out to me on social media if you want to chat about regain and your options. I have my hand gently on your back.
Healthy Hugs,
About the Author: Sheri Burkeis 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.
Embarking on a bariatric journey is a life-changing decision for individuals struggling with obesity. While vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) has shown remarkable success, some individuals opt for revision surgery, transitioning to the mini gastric bypass (MGB).
In this blog, we will explore the reasons behind this choice and how revision surgery can offer renewed hope for lasting weight loss.
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG):
Vertical sleeve gastrectomy, commonly known as VSG or gastric sleeve surgery, involves removing a significant portion of the stomach to create a smaller pouch. This restrictive procedure limits food intake and reduces hunger hormones, leading to substantial weight loss. Many patients experience positive results, improved health, and an enhanced quality of life following VSG.
The Decision for Revision Surgery:
Despite the success of VSG, some individuals may find that their weight loss plateaus or regains over time. Others might experience complications or unresolved health issues. In such cases, patients may consider revision surgery to address these concerns effectively.
One common revision option is the mini gastric bypass (MGB), also known as the single-anastomosis gastric bypass. This procedure combines restrictive and malabsorptive elements. It involves creating a smaller stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to limit nutrient absorption further. The MGB aims to offer enhanced weight loss results compared to VSG alone.
Reasons to Opt for Mini Gastric Bypass:
Increased Weight Loss Potential: Individuals who experience inadequate weight loss or weight regain after VSG may choose revision surgery to overcome these challenges. The MGB’s combined restrictive and malabsorptive components can promote greater weight loss by further limiting food intake and calorie absorption.
Resolving Health Complications:For some patients, VSG might not effectively address pre-existing health conditions related to obesity, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. By transitioning to MGB, patients may experience better control of these conditions and an overall improvement in their health.
Long-Term Sustainability:The decision to undergo bariatric surgery is a commitment to lifelong changes. MGB has shown promising long-term results, offering patients renewed hope for sustained weight loss and better health outcomes.
Addressing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): In some cases, VSG may lead to an increased incidence of GERD or worsen pre-existing reflux symptoms. Revision to MGB can alleviate these issues, as the bypassed segment reduces gastric acid exposure to the esophagus.
Considerations and Risks:
Opting for revision surgery from VSG to MGB is a significant decision that requires thorough evaluation and discussion with experienced bariatric specialists. While MGB offers advantages, it also carries risks like any surgical procedure. Patients must understand the potential complications and the importance of post-operative lifestyle changes to ensure successful outcomes.
For individuals who have undergone vertical sleeve gastrectomy and are facing challenges in their weight loss journey, revision surgery to mini gastric bypass can be a transformative option. With careful consideration, guidance from healthcare professionals, and dedication to lifestyle changes, the transition to MGB can offer renewed hope for achieving sustained weight loss and improved well-being.
If you have questions regarding revision surgery, reach out to me for assistance and guidance. You can also complete the health form in order to ensure that you qualify for revision surgery: Click Here
Healthy Hugs,
About the Author: Sheri Burkeis 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.
Embarking on a bariatric surgery journey can bring about significant changes in your lifestyle, including how you approach social situations involving food. Dining out at restaurants or attending events with friends and family may require some adjustments post-surgery. In this blog, we will explore helpful tips to navigate these social situations with confidence and make healthier choices while still enjoying the experience.
Plan Ahead and Research: Before heading out to a restaurant or event, it’s beneficial to plan ahead. Many establishments now provide menus online, allowing you to review options in advance. Look for dishes that align with your post-surgery dietary guidelines, focusing on protein-rich, low-fat, and nutrient-dense options. If necessary, call ahead to inquire about special accommodations or menu modifications.
Communicate Your Needs: Don’t hesitate to communicate your dietary requirements to the restaurant staff or event organizers. Inform them about your bariatric surgery and any specific dietary restrictions you may have. Most establishments are willing to accommodate special requests, such as smaller portion sizes, substitutions, or modifications to suit your needs.
Opt for Smaller Portions: After bariatric surgery, your stomach’s capacity is significantly reduced. Therefore, opting for smaller portions is crucial. Many restaurants offer appetizer-sized or half-portions, which can be more suitable for your post-surgery needs. You can also consider sharing a meal with a friend or requesting a to-go box to save leftovers for later.
Mindful Eating and Slow Pacing: Practice mindful eating techniques when dining out or attending events. Slow down and savor each bite, focusing on the flavors and textures of your meal. Take small bites, chew thoroughly, and allow yourself time to feel satisfied. Remember, it takes about 20 minutes for your brain to register fullness, so pacing yourself is essential to prevent overeating.
Choose Protein as a Priority: Protein is an essential component of your post-bariatric surgery diet. When dining out, prioritize protein-rich options. Look for lean meats, seafood, tofu, or legumes. Grilled, baked, or broiled preparations are often healthier choices compared to fried or breaded alternatives. Don’t forget to include some vegetables or salad to round out your meal.
Be Mindful of Liquid Calories: While you may be vigilant about your food choices, it’s important to be mindful of liquid calories as well. Beverages such as sugary sodas, juices, and alcoholic drinks can add unnecessary calories and hinder your weight loss goals. Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or other sugar-free options to stay hydrated without excess calories.
Seek Support from Loved Ones: Your friends and family can play a significant role in supporting your bariatric journey. Inform them about your dietary needs and goals, and encourage their understanding and support. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can make social situations more enjoyable and less challenging.
Navigating social situations after bariatric surgery may initially seem daunting, but with a little planning and mindfulness, it can become an empowering experience. By researching menus in advance, communicating your needs, choosing appropriate portions, and prioritizing protein-rich options, you can enjoy dining out and attending events while staying on track with your post-surgery goals. Remember, seeking support from your loved ones and practicing mindful eating are key elements to a successful and enjoyable social experience.
Healthy Hugs,
About the Author: Sheri Burkeis 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.
Emotional eating is a common challenge that many individuals face, including those who have undergone bariatric surgery. Bariatric patients often experience a significant transformation in their relationship with food after surgery, and addressing emotional eating becomes crucial for long-term success.
Let’s explore effective strategies to help manage emotional eating and maintain a healthy lifestyle post-weight-loss surgery.
Identify Triggers: The first step in addressing emotional eating is to identify the triggers that lead to overeating. Stress, boredom, loneliness, and certain situations or emotions can act as triggers. Keep a journal to track your eating patterns and identify the emotions or situations that precede overeating. Recognizing these triggers empowers you to develop alternative coping mechanisms.
Build a Support System: Having a strong support system is essential in the journey of overcoming emotional eating. Connect with other bariatric patients, join support groups, or seek professional counseling. Sharing experiences, struggles, and successes with individuals who understand can provide encouragement and guidance.
Practice Mindful Eating: Embrace the practice of mindful eating to develop a healthier relationship with food. Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, eat slowly, and savor each bite. Focus on the taste, texture, and satisfaction that food brings. Mindful eating helps you become more aware of emotional triggers and make conscious choices rather than turning to food automatically.
Find Alternative Coping Mechanisms: Discover alternative coping mechanisms that don’t involve food. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as going for a walk, reading a book, practicing yoga, or engaging in a hobby. These activities can distract you from emotional eating triggers and provide healthier outlets for your emotions.
Seek Professional Help: If emotional eating persists or becomes overwhelming, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or psychologist. They can help you explore the underlying emotional issues and develop effective coping strategies. Therapy can be an invaluable resource in addressing emotional eating patterns.
Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care to nurture your emotional well-being. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as taking a warm bath, practicing mindfulness or meditation, or engaging in creative pursuits. When you take care of your emotional needs, you’re less likely to turn to food for comfort.
Plan and Prepare Meals: Create a meal plan and stick to it. By planning and preparing your meals in advance, you are less likely to make impulsive food choices driven by emotions. Include a balance of lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains to ensure proper nutrition and satiety. Having a structured eating plan helps you stay on track and reduces the likelihood of emotional eating episodes.
Celebrate Non-Food Achievements: Reward yourself for non-food achievements. Instead of celebrating milestones with indulgent treats, find alternative ways to reward yourself, such as buying a new outfit, getting a massage, or treating yourself to a movie night. This shift in mindset helps break the association between emotions and food.
Addressing emotional eating is a crucial aspect of the bariatric journey. By identifying triggers, building a support system, practicing mindful eating, finding alternative coping mechanisms, seeking professional help when needed, practicing self-care, planning meals, and celebrating non-food achievements, bariatric patients can effectively manage emotional eating and maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Remember, it’s a journey, and each step you take toward addressing emotional eating brings you closer to long-term success.
Healthy Hugs,
About the Author: Sheri Burkeis 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.
