Bariatric surgery is a great option to help those who are overweight to shed pounds and gain control of their health. However, it’s only the beginning of your journey. You still need to be proactive when it comes to managing your weight, as the weight can come back if you aren’t careful. Be sure to discuss your concerns with a highly skilled surgeon such as Dr. Louis Balsama.
Eat Well
The most important part of keeping the weight off after bariatric surgery is watching what you eat. Immediately after surgery, you will be on a liquid diet for a couple of weeks. Gradually, you will be able to eat normal food again. When you are, you need to make smart decisions. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and foods high in trans fats. When you eat, eat slowly to help your body recognize when you are full. You should also avoid eating late at night to eliminate the extra calories you could consume.
Exercise
You need to be active to burn calories and maintain your weight loss. Go to your local gym multiple times a week. While there, emphasize both cardiovascular exercise and strength training. Consider getting a personal trainer or taking a class to keep you on track. You can also find ways to exercise on your own, such as playing at the park with your children or dog. You can also go hiking or play a sport. When you enjoy the exercise you’re doing, you will be more likely to keep to a schedule.
Get Support
Managing your weight can be difficult to do on your own. However, you’re not alone. There are a number of people out there who can relate to your struggle. Many people don’t want to discuss their weight issues, but keeping it to yourself will only hinder your success. Find other people who have been through the same surgery. Hopefully, they will be able to offer you support when you need it. They may even be able to give you tips and tricks that helped them when they struggled. If you don’t personally know someone who has undergo bariatric surgery, you can look into different support groups in your area.
Check In with Your Doctor
Ultimately, your doctor is going to be your primary resource when it comes to answering questions or giving you advice on how to keep the weight off. Go to regular checkups after your surgery to ensure you are on the right track. Ask questions, state any concerns you have, and be sure to be honest when discussing your schedule and habits. Your physician is there to help support you through your journey, not to judge you.
Schedule a Consultation
Bariatric surgery can be a liberating experience for those who struggle with their weight. After surgery, you will need to work toward your weight loss goals with exercise, diet, and more. Weight loss and keeping it off can be an uphill battle for some, but you are not alone. If you find yourself slipping, even reaching out to a trusted physician can help. Dr. Balsama has helped many achieve their goal weight. Give our office a call today or fill out our online form to get started!
