Weight-loss surgery is not the final step in sustaining weight loss. To reach and maintain a healthy weight, bariatric surgery patients often must adjust to a number of lifestyle changes.
The bariatric surgery team at Northwest Health provides a range of supportive services throughout the entire weight-loss journey, well beyond your hospital stay. Following surgery, your surgeon will continue to closely monitor your progress at regular follow-up appointments. Additionally, our staff will guide you in following a nutrition and exercise plan.
"I struggled with weight my entire life. I remember always being the "bigger girl" when growing up. Then, in 2018, after my third child's birth, I experienced severe postpartum depression, and that's when I reached my heaviest weight. I was stress-eating to cope, and it was a vicious cycle."
As you begin to follow your plan, it will be important to eat and drink exactly what your care team recommends. During the first few months following surgery, drinking the recommended amount of fluids helps you to avoid complications, such as dehydration, constipation and kidney stones. Your nutrition plan may include a liquid diet at first followed by soft foods. Over time, and under the guidance of your physician, you will be able to increase your food intake. You’ll likely find that your appetite is much weaker and easier to satisfy. Additionally, your care team will develop a list of recommended daily vitamins and supplements.
During this adjustment period, keep these things in mind: