Life After Surgery
Dietary restrictions
After surgery, you will need to make significant changes to your diet
and eating habits. Simply put, you will never again be able to eat the
same way that you did before surgery. Depending on which procedure you
undergo, you will receive additional detailed instructions. Most
patients, however, will need to make these changes:
Adjust your diet. After the initial recovery period, in which
you will need to take just liquids, you will slowly reintroduce solid
foods. You will need to learn to eat very slowly, and to drink at
times other than mealtimes. You will need to increase your
intake of protein-rich foods, vegetables, and whole grains. Many
patients will be unable to tolerate foods they once ate, such as read
meat, rice, bread, and fibrous foods. Excess fats and sugars must
be avoided, including fried foods, fast foods, high-fat desserts,
chocolate, candies, cakes, cookies, corn syrup, ice cream, and many
others.
Adjust your intake of liquids. You will need to drink fluids
between, rather than with, your meals. If you are not drinking enough
liquids, you will need to increase your intake to at least 64
ounces per day. You will need to avoid many beverages, including
carbonated drinks, sweetened drinks, and alcohol.
Supplementation. After surgery, you will need to take
vitamin and mineral supplements regularly.
Exercise
Our center recommends that patients exercise at least 30
minutes per day. We work with each patient to develop an individualized
plan to fit your ability and lifestyle. In addition to helping to
maximize your weight loss, exercise also helps to relieve stress and
helps with wound healing. Failure to exercise enough can slow your
weight loss, increase the risk for blood clots, and delay your healing
process.
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The Big Picture
It can not be overemphasized that surgery
for weight loss is only the beginning of a long-term transformation.
Lifelong weight loss involves a commitment to one’s total well being
and continued commitment to healthy habits that bring a new life experience.
Although such changes can be challenging, the rewards are well worth the
effort in enhancing your health, vitality, and self-esteem.
Continuous follow-up care, support, and assistance will help you to
maximize your weight loss. After your initial recovery from surgery, you
will need to adhere to new dietary habits, an exercise program, and you
will likely find yourself making other lifestyle changes as well. You may
want to explore psychological
and emotional factors that have contributed to your weight.
To ensure the success of every patient, Dr. Garrison stands with you
during this process, providing help and support at every step of the way.
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