Almost everyone struggles with their weight at some point in life. And if you have a lot of weight to lose or chronic health conditions to manage, weight-loss surgery can provide just the boost you need, with the potential for fast, measurable results. You deserve to feel great. And bariatric surgery — followed by a whole-person approach to weight management — can help.
“Bariatric surgery is an incredibly effective approach to weight loss,” says Dr. Gustavo Bello, bariatric surgeon at AdventHealth, “but it involves a lot of mental and physical preparation and post-op care. Find hope knowing we’ll be here to help you develop the strategies and confidence you need to live well.”
Commit to a Healthy Lifestyle
Most people lose a significant amount of weight after bariatric surgery. This long-term success comes from a commitment to making changes that set the course for improved health and wellness for life.
“This process involves much more than a surgery,” says Dr. Bello “It’s a mindset change, a lifestyle shift and a full transformation.”
At AdventHealth, our team will work with you to help you embrace habits that nurture you physically, mentally and spiritually — so you can feel whole and get the most out of life after your surgery. Here’s what we recommend.
Make Healthy Eating a Priority
One effect of bariatric surgery is a reduced appetite. And while it may be easier to satisfy your hunger after surgery, making wise choices about eating and drinking is still key to your success. Choose foods with plenty of protein, such as lean meats, eggs, dairy products, tofu and beans. Protein-packed picks like these will help curb your appetite and keep your muscles strong during periods of rapid weight loss.
“It can be overwhelming to know where to start with healthy eating, but our dietitians will help you find an approach to planning, shopping and cooking that works for your life,” explains Dr. Bello.
Manage Your Stress Proactively
Choosing weight-loss surgery is one big step toward taking better care of yourself. Use it as inspiration to empower you as you move forward into a stronger and healthier life. Be protective of your time and make you your number one responsibility with go-to stress-relief strategies such as going for walks, spending time in nature and connecting with supportive friends.
Find a Type of Exercise You Enjoy
Not only is regular physical activity helpful for maintaining long-term weight loss, it can also help you manage stress. But forcing yourself to do exercises you dislike won’t help you stay motivated to keep moving. So instead, focus on activities that make you feel good. Whether you chose something formal (like fitness classes), informal (like taking the stairs) or recreational (like hiking), any ongoing, regular activity supports your long-term health goals.
Reach Out to Your Expert Team
A small amount of weight fluctuation in the years following bariatric surgery is typical. But people rarely regain large amounts of weight, especially when they commit to the self-care guidelines above. At AdventHealth, our bariatric care team is here to empower you to manage your weight and live well in body, mind and spirit.
“You can do it, because you’ve got us,” assures Dr. Bello.
