Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Tips for Success

Guest post by Vicki Bovee, M.S., R.D., L.D., is a registered dietitian with over 25 years experience in weight loss, weight management, and specializing in bariatric nutrition since 2003. www.chefdave.org

Several years ago I attended the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) conference. Sometimes I find the most valuable information comes from the Q &A after the presentation.

Such was the case for one session. I wish I could give credit to the speaker, but I was busy scribbling my notes and failed to note the session. But what I did note was valuable information that I have passed on to patients regarding the predictors of success for after bariatric weight loss surgery. Though I cannot cite the reference, my experience tells me that successful weight loss maintainers fit the following criteria. Even if you have already had weight loss surgery, there are actions you can take to be successful.

1. Pre-op weight loss is important.
Very often patients are advised to lose weight before bariatric surgery. Typically, this is to help your surgeon in the operating room and reduce risk of complications. What it also does is give a jump start on your weight loss. Losing 5 to 20 or more pounds before surgery increases motivation to continue. If someone is eating "the last supper" right up until surgery, you have to ask how motivated are they to make those eating behavior changes long-term.

2. Eat ON TRACK the first 6 months.
The longer you stick to the rules, the longer you follow the guidelines from your bariatric health provider, the more likely you are to stay on track. For many people, that first bite of a food that is difficult to control is like opening a crack in Pandora's Box. When I have patients pushing the envelope with eating two months after surgery, I know there is trouble ahead. This is a lifelong commitment and it takes effort and dedication. Give yourself the time to establish those good habits before testing the waters with the old favorite foods that brought you to bariatric weight loss surgery.

3. Keep moving.
People who exercise 30 minutes or more daily do better. Period.

4. Attend support groups.
No man (or woman) is an island. Whether attending a support group in person or on the internet, having regular contact with other weight loss surgery patients is motivating. If you are struggling someone is there to give you a hand. And if you are on a roll, you can give someone else a hand. Buddy up.

5. Attend all follow-ups visits with your surgeon's office.
Keep every appointment and get your labs done every time they are ordered. Your providers know best and it's their job to keep you healthy. If you have gained weight back and are embarrassed to go back, you are not the first. They are there to help you so be sure to use their expertise.