Many bariatric surgery patients know that in order to lose weight and keep it off, they have to change their eating and activity habits. However, big lifestyle changes like these don’t come easily for many people. Plus, bariatric surgery is a major life change that can create some serious challenges.

It’s for these reasons that Dr. Mark Colquitt of Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons highly recommends our patients join a bariatric support group. Research shows that regular attendance to a support group plays a vital role both in one’s short and long-term goals.

Here are some of the reasons why joining a bariatric support group can benefit you:

You’ll learn from each other.
Knowledge is power. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after surgery from patients who’ve been through it can help you a lot in this health journey.

From time to time, we invite certain professionals to talk about topics that can help you in your transition. It can be about diet, exercise, or challenges that come with the weight loss surgery journey (e.g. food addiction, exercise struggles).

You’ll stay accountable.
Sometimes, we find ourselves falling off the track and it’s okay. Joining a support group can help you get back on it. And by sharing your story, you can also help other members who may also be experiencing what you’re going through.

You’ll find support.
Your family and friends may be supportive in your new health journey, but they could never fully understand what you’re going through unless they’re bariatric surgery patients themselves.

With a support group, you have a safe place to seek support, whether it’s about the lifestyle change or the struggles with your transition. No one can understand you more than those who have been or are in your shoes.

Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons and the Fort Sanders Center for Bariatric Surgery in Knoxville have monthly in-person support groups. If you’d like to join or if you have questions about it, visit https://www.foothillsweightloss.com/after-surgery/support-groups or call us at (865) 984-3413.

Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons is part of Premier Surgical Bariatrics in Knoxville, TN. Foothills partners with the Fort Sanders Center for Bariatric Surgery, a member of Covenant Health.