Bariatric surgery is a tool to help you jumpstart your weight loss.  However, there are other steps that you can take that will help you to optimize your weight loss after bariatric surgery.

As was discussed in the previous section, The First Year, diet, exercise, post-operative follow up and social support are additional tools that will help you to improve your wellness and safely and effectively reach your goals for weight loss after bariatric surgery.

Post-Operative Follow Up

Medical studies reflect what we’ve seen firsthand: Individuals who are committed to their post-operative care are more likely to be successful in maintaining their weight loss after bariatric surgery than those that that do not complete the follow-up care.  With frequent follow up with your care team, we can monitor your progress, answer your questions and help you to continue to safely reach your goals.

Diet

You and your care team will decide on a diet that is customized to meet your nutritional and weight loss goals.  However, as a general guide, the following tips will help you stay on track with your weight loss after bariatric surgery:

• Listen to your body.  By eating and sipping slowly, you can better understand how your body is reacting to the food.   Hiccups and pressure at the top of your stomach are indications that you are full.
• Chew your food slowly and thoroughly.  By chewing slowly, you give your body time to recognize that it is getting full.  Also, it is necessary to chew your food thoroughly to aid in proper digestion.
• Continue to have small portions.  Your meals and snacks should be between ½ and 1 cup.  Your care team will work with you and let you know the exact quantity that is right for you based on your procedure. 
• Drink eight, 8-ounce cups of water, herbal tea or other sugar-free, caffeine-free, alcohol-free, low calorie beverages.  Avoid carbonated beverages as they may lead to discomfort.

Exercise

Exercise is another aspect of your lifestyle change that is going to be very helpful in your weight loss.  The first few weeks after surgery we encourage you to get up and go for a walk every hour for at least 5 minutes.  With time, we encourage you to engage in at least 30 minutes of exercise 3 to 5 times per week.  Walking, swimming, and yoga are good choices that will help you to build strength, increase flexibility and burn calories.  Please check with your expert care team before beginning a new exercise routine.

Social Support

You will experience many changes on your weight loss journey and it is important to have the support of your family and friends.   Oftentimes meetings with family and friends are centered on food.  Ask those around you to catch up while going for a walk or enjoy a movie together.

Weight loss support groups can also be helpful to you and instrumental in your success.  The Hurley Bariatric Team is pleased to offer you both medically supervised and peer weight loss support groups.  Additionally, our support groups are offered at many convenient Michigan locations so that you can attend one that is located near your home or workplace.  Learn more about Hurley's weight loss support groups.