How to Avoid Weight Regain after Bariatric Surgery

  1. shutterstock_2180159017.jpegSchedule annual follow-ups with your surgeon: Seeing your surgeon yearly is extremely important to ensure long-term bariatric surgery success. Your bariatric surgeon should be seen just as regularly as your primary care doctor, dentist, cardiologist, OBGYN, or other medical specialty. By meeting with your surgeon regularly, they are able to assist if you are having any medical issues, collaborate with your specialists if you see any other doctors, and monitor if you have any nutritional deficiencies.
  2. Schedule annual follow-ups with your dietitian: Checking in with your Registered Dietitian regularly is extremely important for long-term success after bariatric surgery. Bariatric dietitians are specialty trained in helping those after bariatric surgery both right after surgery and years after. Your dietitian can help adjust your macros, calorie goals, as well as give you meal ideas and other recommendations to keep you at your weight goal. If you get off track, your dietitian is always available to help you get back on track. 
  3. Assess for nutritional deficiencies: Annual labs are recommended for bariatric patients to ensure that they do not have any nutritional deficiencies. Bariatric surgery can cause nutritional deficiencies due to altered absorption from the surgical procedure and inability to consume enough food to meet all daily nutrient requirements. Common deficiencies after bariatric surgery include B12, calcium, iron, and Vitamin D. Adhering to the vitamin regimen that your bariatric team is recommending, as well as having labs completed annually, will help monitor any potential nutrient deficiencies. Nutrient deficiencies can cause complications, such as anemia, altered metabolism, fatigue, weakness, brain fog, unsteady gait, poor eyesight, hair loss, and many more issues if untreated. If you have any questions about the correct vitamin regimen, reach out to your dietitian.
  4. Eat a balanced and nutritious diet: While protein intake is important, it is also important to include controlled portions of carbohydrates and fat. Choose carbohydrate sources that are rich in fiber, such as whole grains and fruit and vegetables with skin. Our bodies use carbohydrates as an energy source, so lower to moderate amounts of carbs are needed. Avoid foods and beverages that are high in sugar, as well as alcohol in large amounts. 
  5. Keep your mental health in check: With busy schedules, work, and family responsibilities, it is easy to forget to check on yourself. Poor mental health can lead to overeating and even undereating. Ways to take care of your mental health include prioritizing yourself and your health journey, partaking in regular physical activity, setting aside 30 minutes per day to relax, taking a warm bath, drinking hot tea, and anything else that brings you joy. If you struggle with emotional eating that you are unable to control on your own, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to your bariatric team who will be able to refer you to a mental health specialist to help address the issues that you are facing. 
  6. Exercise!: Many people underestimate the power of exercise. Exercise is a way to relieve any stress that has built up. Exercise does not require a gym membership or exercise classes with other people. You can simply find exercises that you enjoy doing at home if it is more convenient for you. Go on a walk in the neighborhood, try a free workout video on Youtube, or meet a friend at the park to play pickleball. Exercise does not have to be complicated or overwhelming. We encourage you to find some form of exercise that you enjoy.