You have been disciplined, gone through a rigorous diet before weight loss surgery, and now the surgery is behind you. You are thinking that the big part is over. In a way, it is, but there is still much to do—and not do. Let’s list some self care tips for weight loss surgery patients.
Be Careful What You Eat and How Much
Your body will be different after surgery, and you won’t be able to eat and drink like you are used to. You will need to eat smaller amounts at each meal, and you will need to chew your food much slower and more completely. Each meal will take longer, so expect that.
At first, you will feel full very quickly after just a few bites of food. You may want to eat 6 small meals instead of 3 and without any snacking. Some foods may cause pain or discomfort if not chewed thoroughly like pasta, rice, bread, raw veggies, or meats.
Stay Hydrated
Drink up to 8 glasses of water each day or another liquid without calories. You will find constipation will become common after the surgery and drinking water and eating fiber will help.
Expect Some Ups and Downs
Many patients think their life will become perfect after bariatric surgery. That is wishful thinking. You may still feel sad at times. You may still miss certain high-calorie foods. You may still miss going to your favorite restaurant with friends.
As you lose weight over the first 3 to 6 months you may experience feeling cold, tired, having body aches, dry skin, and mood changes. These issues will go away as your body gets adjusted to your weight loss and your weight becomes stable. Talk with Dignity Health Medical Group about whether you are eating enough protein and taking the right nutrients and supplements.
Rest When You Feel Tired
Don’t hesitate to take a nap if you are feeling tired. It is your body telling you to take a break. Get enough sleep at night. Taking time to rest and relax is an essential part of self care.
Incorporate Walking Into Each Day
Start slowly, but try to walk a little further each day. It helps both physically and mentally and will help you look and feel better.
Contact Dignity Health Medical Group for Support
As you continue on your post-bariatric surgery journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dignity Health Medical Group for additional self care tips and recommendations. Call our Gilbert office at (480) 728-6590, or our Chandler office at (602) 582-5233, or request an appointment through our secure online form.
Sources: Weight Loss Surgery Recovery Time by Procedure Type (healthline.com)
Gastric Sleeve Surgery: What to Expect at Home (alberta.ca)
Life after weight-loss surgery: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
How to take care of yourself after your bariatric surgery? – CER Bariatrics Tijuana
