Tips for Better Nutrition and Exercise After Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is just the beginning of your transformation to a new, healthier lifestyle. Nutrition and exercise are key to achieving and maintaining a better life with a slimmer figure and better management of medical conditions. Most people who have these procedures are at least 50 kilograms overweight or have a BMI over 35. Sometimes, these procedures are helpful for those with a BMI between 30 and 35 with health risks related to obesity. 

Dr V. Kuzinkovas and his multidisciplinary team will help you through the post-operative process to ensure you’re healing, eating a varied nutritional diet and gradually increasing exercise. 

Nutrition After Bariatric Surgery 

You will reintroduce solid food slowly, starting with a liquid/pureè diet after bariatric surgery, then soft, malleable foods such as soft-boiled eggsare introduced. Around one and a half to two months after your weight loss surgery, you may reintroduce diced, chopped foods — any bigger pieces may block the intestines (depending on the type of surgery) and cause pain or vomiting. 

Some of these tips will help you prepare for your weight loss journey after bariatric surgery: 

• Reduce or stop saturated fats, fried foods or fatty meats.
• Eliminate high carbohydrates such as potatoes, pasta, bread and sugary treats.
• Stay away from drinks high in sugar, including juices and sodas. 
• Avoid binge eating by learning portion control. 
• Cut out alcohol from your diet and drink plenty of water. 
• Enjoy drinks between meals instead of during meals.
• Take multivitamins and other supplements recommended by Dr V. Kuzinkovas.
• Popcorn, tough meats and crunchy foods should be avoided. 

It’s essential to listen to your body during this transitional time and introduce foods slowly. Our team can answer your questions and is available to help throughout your recovery. 

Exercise After Bariatric Surgery 

During the first month after your bariatric surgery, you can start low-impact exercises, such as walking, stretching and basic yoga. You can slowly build up to strength training and cardio workouts. Small life changes such as walking to your destination instead of driving or choosing the stairs over the elevator can make a gradual difference. Some tips to help you get used to regular exercise after weight loss surgery include: 

• Pick a form of exercise that you enjoy to stick with it long term, such as dancing, yoga or a sport. 
• Ask for help from professionals and our bariatric surgeon. 
• Set realistic goals for yourself, and don’t push too hard too soon after bariatric surgery. 
• Enlist a friend or family member to be your exercise buddy or check on your progress. 

Learn More About Bariatric Surgery in Sydney 

Bariatric surgery can give you your life and health back. Learn about your weight loss options at Advanced Surgicare in Sydney with Dr V. Kuzinkovas, our world-renowned laparoscopic surgeon. Please call our clinic at 1300 551 533.