Weight-loss surgery may be the best decision you’ve ever made for your life. Besides a slimmer waist, it can lower your high blood pressure and can even improve your arthritis. There are so many benefits. But if you’re not careful, you can easily undo all the positive changes. That’s why it’s important to maintain your weight loss after surgery.
Dr. Robert Snow, at Snow Bariatric Center, is a leader in medical weight-loss surgeries. He specializes in gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, bariatric surgery, and more.
Dr. Snow's approach to weight loss is compassionate and comprehensive. He starts by getting to know you and your unique weight-loss concerns. Then, he joins you on every step of your journey. Including, a comprehensive after-care program.
Have you already undergone a weight-loss procedure? Dr. Snow has some tips and guidelines to help you maintain your weight-loss results.
Weight-loss surgery is a big deal and it’s bound to have a positive effect on several aspects of your life. You may notice the initial weight-loss makes you feel happier, lighter, and even younger.
When your perspective on life changes, you begin to feel like you can do more and your energy level increases. Because that attitude is observable, people will notice a positive change in you. Let that momentum keep you moving forward and motivate you to stick to a new diet and exercise routine.
Even though you’re filled with positivity now, you will have days when you feel discouraged and may be tempted to stray from your plan. That’s when it’s important to take stock of all the good and stay the course toward your goal.
Your “new” stomach has different needs and capabilities, so you’ll have to change your old habits. After your weight-loss surgery, you’ll feel full faster. That's why it's important to start with the most important foods. You want to ensure you're getting the right nutrients when you eat every day.
Protein is a must! It helps build lean muscle mass, which helps burn fat. Your goal is to change your body composition over time. You want to end up with a healthier ratio of lean muscle to body fat.
Now that your tummy has less space, the last thing you want is to fill it with liquids and leave no room for your meals. To avoid this, it’s best to focus on your nutrients and forego the drinks until about half an hour after your meal. After that, by all means, drink lots of water.
It’s common for people to confuse their feelings of hunger and thirst. To combat that, drink plenty of water throughout the day — just not at mealtime.
Don’t be a slave to the clock. That was the old you. If it’s “lunchtime” but you’re not hungry — don’t eat! Learn to listen to the messages your body sends and avoid falling into the habit trap.
Your digestive system can use all the help you can give it following weight-loss surgery. One of the best things you can do is make sure you chew your food until it’s very small, and then keep chewing some more.
Digestion actually starts in your mouth. Keep food there a little longer than usual to give your stomach a helping hand.
To ease into your new lifestyle and give your digestive system the best shot at processing what you send it, you may have to sacrifice a few vices.
Bubbly sodas can put pressure on internal sutures and alcohol can increase your risk for stomach ulcers. Caffeine is a diuretic that can undo your hydration efforts. You might love all these liquids, but try to steer clear.
Exercise should be your new best friend. Start by walking. It doesn’t have to be fast or far, just get moving. The key is to turn exercise into a habit that you look forward to every day. When you stay active and continue to shed pounds, you’ll decrease your risk for postoperative complications.
These are just a few of the many helpful guidelines Dr. Snow gives his patients after weight-loss surgery. If you have questions about medical weight loss programs or procedures, contact us today and book an appointment.
