Undergoing bariatric surgery is a big deal, but it doesn’t have to be an ordeal. You have committed to changing not only your health and body but your lifestyle, too. If you’re wondering how to get back on track after bariatric surgery, this is the blog post for you.
Bariatric patients usually have lots of questions.
Why no drinking during meals or 1 hour after eating? What happens if my stomach stretches?
What is a pouch reset? Are there support groups that can help me?
Can you really measure food portions by comparing them to the size of your fist?
After bariatric surgery, you will need to be patient and diligent as you start working on your new goal of losing weight. The reward is well worth it though.
Here are some tips on how to get back on track after bariatric surgery.
#1: Learn about the recovery process.
Bariatric surgery is done laparoscopically. You will undergo anesthesia and, after waking up, you will be sore. After surgery, the stomach and abdominal area will likely be swollen, and pain medications will be prescribed to ensure you’re comfortable.
For the first few weeks, your diet will be very restricted. You will also probably feel tired and will need to make sure you take time to rest and stay hydrated. In addition, you’ll need to be sure to make sure your incision area stays clean and dry.
#2: Know what activity level is safe.
Immediately after surgery, you will need to rest and reduce your physical activity. Remember, your body just underwent major surgery, and it needs time to heal.
Once your doctor approves the next phase in your recovery process, you can start picking up your activity level. Walking is one of the best places to start. Slowly, you’ll be able to pick up the amount of physical activity and exercise you can do.
This is an opportunity for you to find a good workout routine that you enjoy. Keeping an active lifestyle that integrates healthy eating and regular physical activity is the most effective way to lose excess weight and keep it off.
#3: Eat the right foods.
After surgery, you will work with our team to help you figure out what foods and meals you can eat and when. At first, you’ll be on a strict liquid diet, then you can work your way up to soft proteins.
You’ll have to adjust your eating habits because you’ll feel full sooner with even small amounts of food. The key is to develop healthy eating habits for a lifetime so there is no weight gain in the future.
With that said, the first few months after weight loss surgery are critical in your weight loss journey, so it’s important to stick to the right eating plan.
We can help you get back on track after bariatric surgery if at some time you feel your weight loss has slowed down, your diet has slipped and you are now eating like you were prior to surgery. This is true whether you’ve had gastric bypass, gastric sleeve surgery, or one of the other procedures performed by our bariatric surgeons.
We’re here for you. The staff, surgeons, and dietitians at WeightWise are committed to helping you reach your weight loss goal.
Contact us today to learn the answers to these questions and more.