Bariatric surgery is a big commitment. But what happens when you reach your weight loss goal? You must stay dedicated to your lifestyle changes in order to keep the weight off. Here are the top tips for maintaining weight loss after bariatric surgery.
Stick to Your Calorie Range 
Once you reach your weight loss goal, it can be tempting to deviate from your diet. However, eating too many or too few calories can be detrimental to your weight loss. Proper nutrition makes sustaining weight loss easier. So, make sure you reach your protein goal daily and stay within your recommended calorie range.
With all the technology in our world, its easier than ever to track your calories, as well as other nutritional details. MyFitnessPal, LoseIt, Baritastic, and Carb Manger are great apps that make tracking easy.
Recognize Emotional Hunger
Its important to recognize the difference between physical and emotional hunger. Physical hunger comes on gradually and doesn’t trigger an emotional response. On the contrary, emotional hunger appears suddenly and can trigger feelings of shame and guilt which leads to poor food choices.
Knowing the difference can help recognize emotional hunger and implement non-food related responses to your triggers. Going for a walk, taking a few minutes to yourself to read a book or take a relaxing bath can help. Trusting your physical hunger and eating mindfully will help you maintain weight loss after bariatric surgery.
Be Active
Physical activities are an important part of weight loss. It prevents muscle depletion during weight loss, helps maintain bone density, increased metabolism and increases overall mental and physical health. Exercise for at least 20 minutes a day and follow any other recommendations from your provider.
Remember Your Vitamins
After bariatric surgery it can be harder for your body to get the vitamins and minerals that are necessary to your health. Maintaining your vitamin and mineral supplement intake is important even after you have reached your goal weight.
Go to Your Follow Up Appointments
Follow ups with your surgeon and dietitian after bariatric surgery is crucial to your outcome, weight loss and resolution of comorbidities. Furthermore, it is necessary for patients to receive support in lifestyle modification and diet changes.
Find Support for Maintaining Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery
Your weight loss journey isn’t over once you reach your goal weight. You still need to make a conscious effort each day to stick to your lifestyle changes and nutritional recommendations. For more information, please contact Maryland Bariatrics today.
