Weight loss surgery is just the beginning of your weight loss regimen and should be maintained throughout your life. The five things that you can expect following weight loss surgery include:
Changes to diet: During the first week after surgery, you will be suggested a liquid diet. During the next few weeks, while your body heals, the texture and volume of food will be gradually increased from soft foods to regular foods. A variety of food can be slowly introduced over time and most foods that may have been intolerable initially (bread, meat, highly fibrous fruits, and vegetables) can be tolerated a few months after surgery. It is also important that you take insufficient amount of water to stay hydrated. Your doctor may suggest vitamin, mineral and calcium supplements to avoid nutrient deficiencies.
Changes in eating habits: For a successful outcome you will need to adopt new eating habits such as eating smaller meals, eating slowly and chewing your food thoroughly, avoiding foods high in fat or difficult to chew, avoiding aerated drinks and chewing gum, with focus on including high-protein foods (meat, seafood, eggs, milk and milk products) into your diet.
Incorporating exercise into your daily routine: Exercise is a very important part of a successful bariatric surgery to achieve the weight-loss you want. A regular exercise program helps in reaching and maintaining an optimal weight loss. Soon after surgery, you will begin walking. Gradually and progressively start your exercise program with a goal of at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.
Frequent medical checkups: Medical checkups may be continued for several months after weight loss surgery. Various examinations and laboratory tests may need to be performed frequently to assess your nutritional status.
Changes in your body: After losing so much weight, you can expect changes in your body which may include body aches, tiredness, feeling cold, dry skin, hair loss, and mood changes.
The success of the surgery depends on the way you adapt yourself to these changes. Make sure to discuss any concerns with your physician to ensure a successful outcome.
Related Topics
- Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
- Revision Bariatric Surgery
- Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass
- Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding
- Revision Weight Loss Surgery
- What is Metabolic Surgery?
- Five Things to Expect Following Weight Loss Surgery
- Is It Time to Consider Weight Loss Surgery?
- Obesity FAQs
- Why Lose Weight?
