Each January, millions of people make New Year's resolutions to lose weight and improve their health. For those who have struggled with obesity for years, traditional methods such as dieting and exercise may not be enough. That's where bariatric surgery comes in—with careful planning and goal-setting, it can be a powerful tool for losing weight.
But the journey doesn't end after surgery. In fact, it's just the beginning. At Atlanta Bariatrics, we know that the key to long-term success lies not just in the procedure itself, but in continuous support and guidance afterward. Our comprehensive program is carefully structured to provide the necessary tools you'll need to achieve your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Understanding Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery, often referred to as weight loss surgery, is designed for individuals struggling with severe obesity who have a high Body Mass Index (BMI) and comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, or other weight-related conditions. During bariatric surgery procedures, adjustments are made to the digestive system to aid in losing excess weight, though the way this is done varies from procedure to procedure. For instance, gastric bypass surgery involves altering the stomach and small intestine to reduce food intake and absorption, whereas an intra-gastric balloon is designed to reduce food intake by creating a feeling of fullness.
The expected outcomes of bariatric procedures, including the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and other kinds of metabolic and bariatric surgery, go beyond weight loss. Patients often see significant improvements in obesity-related health conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. However, it's essential to understand that while bariatric surgery is an effective tool, it's not a 'quick fix.'
Continuous efforts to maintain a balanced diet, get regular physical activity, and follow up with your bariatric team are crucial for long-term success. After all, even after you reach your weight loss goals, your body will still need support and guidance to maintain a healthy weight.
Having a knowledgeable team by your side, like the one at Atlanta Bariatrics, can make all the difference. We're proud to provide comprehensive support and guidance to help you achieve long-term success. Our program includes pre-operative education, consultations with a nutritionist, and ongoing post-operative support from our team of experts.
How To Set SMART Goals
When setting any kind of goal, it's important to be SMART about it. This acronym stands for:
- Specific: Your goal should be clearly defined so you know what you want to achieve. Measurable: You should be able to track your progress towards the goal.
- Achievable: The goal should be realistic and within reach but still challenging enough to motivate you.
- Relevant: The goal should align with your overall objectives and values, making it meaningful and relevant to you.
- Time-bound: A timeframe should be set for achieving the goal, providing a sense of urgency and accountability.
Being SMART about your weight loss goals can increase your chances of success. Setting a specific goal is much more effective instead of saying something vague like 'I want to lose weight.' A SMART goal gives you a clear and measurable target that you can strive towards.
SMART Goals For Your Weight Loss Journey
When creating your own SMART goals and resolutions, it's crucial to work closely with your bariatric team. They can provide guidance and help you set realistic expectations based on your individual circumstances and progress.
Some ways to set SMART goals after bariatric surgery include:
Specific
Define exactly what 'healthy weight' means for you. Your Atlanta Bariatrics team can help you figure this out based on various medical factors, such as your BMI and any existing health conditions, as well as your personal goals. This will help you have a clearer picture of what you're working towards and how to measure your progress.
Measurable
Track your progress in a tangible way. This could mean weighing yourself weekly, or it could be about how your clothes fit or how you feel when doing physical activity. Regular follow-ups with your medical team can provide objective measurements of your progress.
Achievable
Make sure your weight loss goals are realistic. Drastic weight loss in a short period is not healthy or sustainable. A typical goal might be to lose 1-2 pounds per week, but remember, everyone is different. By setting achievable goals instead of trying to lose a large amount of weight quickly, you'll be more likely to stick with your healthy habits long-term.
Relevant
Remember why achieving a healthy weight matters to you. Whether it's improving your mobility, getting off of some medication, reducing your risk for chronic diseases, boosting your self-confidence, or simply bettering your overall health, keep these motivations at the forefront of your mind. A meaningful 'why' can help you stay on track and push through any challenges.
Time-bound
Set realistic timeframes for achieving your goals. This could mean aiming to lose a certain amount of weight within a specific period, or it could be about building sustainable habits over time. Breaking your ultimate goal into smaller, manageable milestones can also help you stay focused and celebrate your progress.
However, let yourself be flexible. Weight loss after bariatric surgery is often faster in the early months and then slower as time goes on. It's not about racing to the finish line but making sustainable changes for the long term.
The Importance of Realistic & Specific Goals
By making sure your goals are SMART, you are increasing your chances of long-term success after bariatric surgery. If you set a goal to lose an excessive amount of weight too quickly, it's likely you'll fall short. In turn, falling short of these expectations can lead to feelings of failure, resulting in decreased motivation to maintain healthy dietary and exercise habits.
On the other hand, setting realistic and specific goals can help you stay motivated and on track. By achieving small milestones along the way, you'll have a sense of accomplishment and progress towards your ultimate goal. This mindset can help you sustain healthy habits and see long-lasting results.
It's important to remember that weight loss is not a sprint; it's a marathon. It's not just about shedding your excess body weight, but also about adopting and maintaining a healthier lifestyle overall.
Atlanta Bariatrics: A Partner in Your Journey
At Atlanta Bariatrics, we understand that weight loss can be complex and challenging. That's why we offer comprehensive support and guidance to our patients through every step of their journey. From pre-surgical consultations to post-operative care and follow-ups, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve long-term success.
Our registered dietitians are a vital part of this process. They can work with you to develop personalized nutrition plans and provide ongoing support to help you achieve your weight loss goals. Additionally, our team of experts can also offer guidance on physical activity, psychological well-being, and other areas that can impact weight loss.
Active participation in your weight management, including making mindful dietary choices, engaging in regular exercise, and attending follow-up appointments, can significantly enhance your progress and lead to better results. By working together with our Atlanta Bariatrics team, you can stay on track and achieve your weight loss goals in a healthy, sustainable way.
Take The First Step Today
Losing weight, particularly for severely obese patients, can often be challenging and overwhelming. However, it doesn't have to be that way. By setting SMART goals and working closely with your bariatric team, you can create a clear roadmap toward achieving a healthier lifestyle.
Reach out to Atlanta Bariatrics for expert guidance and support on your weight loss journey. With the right mindset, realistic goals, and our dedicated team supporting you every step of the way, you can achieve long-term success.
Ready to feel happier and healthier? Call (770) 232-9252 today to schedule your first consultation with the weight loss surgeons and specialists at Atlanta Bariatrics. We can’t wait to help you take the first step!
