In a report published by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, over 100,000 cases of bariatric surgery were done from 2011 to 2015. Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure recommended for those with a body mass index of 30 and above, and those with weight-related health problems such as diabetes, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure.
The ideal candidates for bariatric surgery are those who can commit to the dietary and other lifestyle changes after the procedure. Below is a guide of things to do and not to do after the weight loss surgery.
The Do’s
- Follow the dietary recommendations
Bariatric surgery works by making changes in your digestive system in order to limit the amount of food you can eat, change the way the food is processed in your body, or a combination of both. Hence, it’s very important to follow the doctor’s dietary recommendations after the surgery. This is to prevent malnutrition and achieve your long-term weight loss goals.Bariatric surgery patients are often recommended to eat small portions of well-balanced meals. The consumption of healthy protein sources is emphasized as it aids in wound healing and weight loss (protein makes you feel full longer). Refined, processed, or sugary foods are discouraged as they’re often high in calories but low in nutritional content. - Make sure that you get sufficient amount of vitamins
After the surgery, your stomach won’t be able to absorb as many nutrients as it needs. Thus, it is recommended that you take multivitamins on top of having well-balanced meals. - Comply with your follow up appointments
Surgeons closely observe their patients after weight loss surgery. They usually follow up with them at least once a year. Aside from the bariatric surgeon, the patient will also have appointments with other members of the bariatric team, such as the registered dietician.
The Don’ts
- Introduce new foods at the same time
It will take some time for you to be able to eat ‘normal’ food again. So, avoid introducing new foods at the same time to prevent abdominal upset. - Indulge in carbonated drinks
Staying well-hydrated after bariatric surgery is important, but this doesn’t mean that you can indulge in just any liquid.Carbonated drinks should be consumed in moderation as they can cause an upset stomach and the carbonation will make you feel full, leaving less room for nutrient-dense food. - Skip meals
Skipping meals will deprive your body of its needed nutrients and will only make you feel hungrier.
Bariatric surgery can be a wonderful beginning for your weight loss journey. At Foothills Weight Loss Specialists in Knoxville, our weight loss experts can provide you with a thorough assessment and guidance before, during, and after weight loss surgery. If you think Bariatric surgery may be a solution for you, contact us today at 865-984-3413.