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Following bariatric surgery, most patients are eager to get started on their new weight loss path. It’s important, however, to let your body recover from the surgery and to adjust to the changes that have taken place in your digestive system. So, we wanted to share with you 4 important post-operative tips to help you recover and get you on your way to healthy weight loss.
1. Adopt an Active Lifestyle
When your surgeon clears you to walk, you will be encouraged to do so as much as you can. This is very important to prevent dangerous blood clots from forming in your legs; a risk following any bariatric surgery. This is merely the first step in the regular regime of exercise you should develop. As your weight drops, your energy will increase as will your body’s ability to be active. Regular exercise will be very beneficial. It will help to improve your mobility, prevent the loss of muscle mass, improve the function of your vital organs and create a toned physique.
2. Plan your Meals
In the days and weeks that immediately follow your surgery, your diet will be restricted to liquids or soft foods. But as you begin to re-introduce solid foods, you will find it very helpful and even necessary to carefully plan your meals. The portions you will be able to eat will be much smaller than what you are currently accustomed to. You must make sure those smaller portions are packed with very nutritious choices. We suggest starting your meals with proteins.
Avoid empty calories or foods with little or no nutritive value. You should also avoid snacking. If you plan your three daily meals, you should not have the urge to reach for snacks between meals. As you begin to formulate your meal plans, it’s a good idea to consult with a nutritionist who can make some suggestions to ensure your body gets all the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients it needs.
3. Eat Slowly and Chew, Chew, Chew
While we’re on the subject of food, one of the most common mistakes new patients make after surgery is eating too quickly. Eating food that has not been adequately chewed can lead to pain and discomfort. You must remember that your stomach will now be much smaller and simply does not have the capacity to fit as much food as it used to. By taking your time and chewing your food very well (until it is almost liquid) before swallowing it, you will allow time for food to pass through your stomach and for the signals to travel from your stomach to your brain telling it you are full.
4. Follow-up Visits
The best way to monitor your recovery and to adjust your course is through return follow-up visits with your doctors. They can assess how your body is adjusting to the changes that have taken place, make sure there aren’t any complications developing and give you more helpful tips to ensure your success. The return visits to see your doctor are part of your new, healthy post-operative lifestyle and should not be missed.
Contact the New York Bariatric Group at 800.633.8446 if you have questions about post-surgery recovery tips and advice.
