Sometimes my Maryland bariatric surgery patients come in thinking that their procedure will solve all their weight problems. Surgery is not a one-time magic solution. Obesity in a sense is a chronic disease and constant, life-long efforts need to be applied to keep it in remission. Here’s how:
- You neglect your diet plan and exercise routine. One of the most common causes of weight regain is unhealthy lifestyle choices. By following a low-calorie diet and exercising regularly, you can reduce your chances of gaining unwanted weight.
- Your gastric pouch has stretched. Pouch expansion is possible in all bariatric procedures. If you suspect that this has happened to you, be sure to speak with your surgeon. A revision surgery may be necessary to make the pouch smaller.
- You are taking in excess calories unexpectedly. Excess calories can hide in many places. Certain beverages, such as juices, alcohol, or shakes, can contain unnecessary calories. Schedule to meet with a nutritionist who can help you evaluate your diet and look for hidden calorie traps. Grazing, mindless snacking, soft drinks, excessive use of alcohol is a way to “out eat” restriction of any surgery.
Keeping it Off
The best way to keep the weight off is to eat nutritious, low-calories meals and exercise regularly. By working together with your doctor, you can create a comprehensive plan for maintaining your weight after surgery. And remember, even if some pounds creep back up, your overall health is still greatly improved as a result of surgery.