5 Steps to Maintaining Weight loss After Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a treatment option more and more people are considering or undertaking as the obesity epidemic continues to grow. Most patients do see significant weight loss after surgery. However, long-term weight loss and preventing weight gain as time goes by can be a struggle. The steps below can help you maintain your weight loss and improve your overall health.

Emotional Support is Key

It’s very hard to undertake a weight-loss journey alone. Emotions play a big role for many people struggling to lose weight and there is no question that your emotions affect your eating habits. A support group offers you information, a cheer-leading section and a chance to talk through what you’re feeling with others who have been there. Nearly everyone who has had bariatric surgery and kept the weight off gives credit to a support group for at least part of their success.

You Need a Team

In addition to the support you can get from others who have had surgery, you need a team of health care experts. Find a therapist who specializes in emotional eating. Work with a dietitian or nutritionist who can teach you the tools you need for success and advise you about food quality and nutrition. You’ll need to learn how to use nutrient-dense foods, how to incorporate fiber and what foods are low-calorie but high volume.

Thoughts and Habits Matter

Emotional or unconscious eating – hitting the chocolate ice cream after a long hard day or a fight with your spouse – can sabotage any weight loss effort. For long-term success, you need to spend plenty of time thinking about your relationship with food. You must also practice mindfulness, so that you stay in the moment and pay attention to what you’re feeling, especially when cravings hit.

Move, Move, Move

Regular exercise is one of the best ways to stave off weight gain. A well-rounded exercise program includes aerobic activities, muscle strengthening and stretching, and balance training. A daily 30-minute walk promotes heart health and endurance. Resistance exercises like weight training build muscle mass, which is crucial to promote metabolism.

Take Vitamins

Bariatric surgery changes your ability to absorb vitamins. You’ll need micro-nutrient supplements for the rest of your life. In addition, nutrient deficiencies can trigger overeating, as your body “knows” something is missing and pushes you to fill the hole by eating more. Bari Life bariatric multivitamins are designed and tailored to support patients who have had bariatric surgery. They are available as tablets and powder for easy use.

Obesity shortens your life and can make living highly uncomfortable. Bariatric surgery has proven to be a good solution for many people who also follow the steps outlined above. Remember: find support, develop a health care team, change thoughts and habits, exercise and take Bari Life multivitamin. You’ll experience weight loss success and be able to maintain your new, healthy weight for the rest of your life.