Gastric bypass and other weight-loss surgeries are life-changing. It can help take away the dangerous risks of being morbidly obese, improve mobility, and help one start on track towards a healthy lifestyle. However, the aftermath of bariatric surgery always comes with a load of responsibility placed upon the shoulder of each patient.

Now, it is up to the patient and their loved ones to make lasting positive changes. Dr. Carlos A. Barba, a well-known surgeon at Brownsville, TX, always reminds his patients that what they do after the surgery is just as important as the medical procedure that helped them start their life-altering course. For example, Dr. Barba explained that one of the main goals for patients after bariatric surgery is to avoid weight gain.

In this post, Dr. Carlos A. Barba shares some helpful insights into permanently keeping off the additional pounds after weight loss surgery.

Follow Pointers During Recovery Phase

Just after the bariatric surgery, there will be certain food types or groups that you will not consume until full recovery.

To keep the weight off and avoid harmful complications, it is best not to eat these food groups as advised by your physician. Dr. Carlos A. Barba commonly lists down these food groups which are not recommended post-surgery:

  • Stringy meat and vegetables
  • Fruit and vegetable skins
  • Fresh bread
  • Products with lactose
  • Products with coconut

Such food items may upset the recovering gastric area, so avoid these to prevent complications that may slow down the permanent goal of weight loss.

Focus On Protein Intake

Many cases of weight gain are due to the intake of “empty calories” or calorie-dense foods that do not help in satiety. As a result, people tend to eat more without feeling full, resulting in weight gain.

One of the most helpful strategies is to focus on the intake of lean and healthy protein sources. Then, depending on your doctor’s recommendations on the grams of protein needed per day, you can get your right portions through the following food items:

Lean meat:

You can opt for portions of meat such as ground beef with 90% lean composition, eye round, sirloin, or flank. In addition, you can choose the loin cuts such as the tenderloin, loin chops, and sirloin roast for pork.

Lean poultry:

Turkey is generally lean, so you can choose to have most cuts or have ground turkey as a substitute for meatballs. Chicken breasts are also an affordable option for those who are looking for volume.

Fish:

Most fish with white flesh are lean protein sources. Cod and halibut are great choices.

Plant-Based Protein:

Tofu, tempeh, edamame, and peas are all satisfying sources of lean protein along with other micronutrients found in plants.

Low-Calorie Protein Shakes:

Some protein shakes are made from whey, pea, almond, and other sources, which give large grams of the macronutrient per serving without the unnecessary calories.

Incorporate Physical Activity

Physical activity helps in strengthening the muscles while adding to the total energy burned within the day. Dr. Carlos A. Barba recommends that all patients start with low-impact exercises during the recovery phase. For example, walking, stationary cycling, or using a stepper are low-impact activities to reduce stress on the joints.

Once patients can, they can proceed to physical activities that include aerobic and strengthening portions. This can consist of running, sports, dance, and any other aerobic activity that helps keep the heart rate up. After aerobic exercises, they can lift weights or do some bodyweight strengthening activities.

Take Multivitamin Supplements

Multivitamins can help supplement the nutrition you need to stay fit while avoiding cravings. Unfortunately, some individuals recovering from bariatric surgery are expected to experience some food cravings as some poor eating habits can sometimes be challenging to get rid of.

Thus, having a multivitamin with the most recommended micronutrients can help maintain optimal nutrition. Physicians may also run lab tests and give certain recommendations if you have certain deficiencies.

Practice Portion Control and Mindful Eating

Aside from focusing on your diet and fitness content, you can also develop mindsets that will set you up for permanent weight loss or maintenance. For example, many experts recommend the habit of mindful eating and portion control.

  • Mindful eating: Instead of eating your meals haphazardly or distracted in front of a screen, sit down and take time to chew and savor every bite. Eating mindfully has been known to help improve satiety even with smaller portions of food.
  • Portion control: Take note of the recommended portions per food group in every meal you will take. For example, taking a fist full of protein along with 5-8 ounces of grains and a bowl of vegetables is a healthy portion for an average adult.

Weight Loss and Maintenance After Surgery: The Second Step and Beyond

Dr. Barba considers bariatric surgery as the first step for many who want to lead healthier lives. However, weight loss and maintenance after one’s operation is the second step that will determine the true outcomes. With the tips mentioned above, people will achieve lasting success for their health.