How to maintain weight loss after gastric sleeve surgery?
While gastric sleeve surgery can jumpstart weight loss by reducing the size of the stomach, long-term success depends on making sustainable changes to diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle. Here are some tips for maintaining weight loss after gastric sleeve surgery:
1-)Follow Dietary Guidelines:
• Stick to the dietary guidelines provided by your plastic surgeon and healthcare team. Focus on eating small, frequent meals that are high in protein and low in refined carbohydrates and sugars.
•Choose nutrient-dense foods such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Avoid processed and high-calorie foods that can contribute to weight gain.
2-)Practice Portion Control:
• Pay attention to portion sizes and avoid overeating. Even though your stomach is smaller after surgery, it's still possible to consume excessive calories if you're not mindful of portion sizes.
• Use smaller plates and utensils to help control portion sizes and prevent overeating. Chew your food thoroughly and eat slowly to give your body time to register feelings of fullness.
3-)Stay Hydrated:
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Sometimes, thirst can be mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking or overeating.
• Limit consumption of sugary beverages, carbonated drinks, and high-calorie beverages that can add extra calories without providing satiety.
4-)Incorporate Physical Activity:
• Engage in regular physical activity to support weight loss maintenance and overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
• Choose activities that you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing. Incorporating strength training exercises can also help build muscle mass and boost metabolism.
5-)Monitor Your Progress:
• Keep track of your weight, dietary intake, and exercise routine to monitor your progress and identify any areas for improvement. Consider using a food diary or mobile app to track your meals and activity levels.
• Attend follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon and healthcare team at Formedi regularly to assess your progress, address any concerns, and receive ongoing support and guidance.
6-)Seek Support:
• Join a support group or seek support from family, friends, or online communities of individuals who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery. Sharing experiences, challenges, and successes can provide valuable encouragement and motivation.
• Consider working with a registered dietitian or nutritionist who specializes in weight management to develop a personalized nutrition plan and receive additional guidance and support.
By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine and staying committed to healthy habits, you can maintain weight loss successfully after gastric sleeve surgery. Remember that weight loss maintenance is a lifelong journey, and it's essential to be patient, consistent, and persistent in your efforts. With the support of Formedi in Antalya, Turkey, and your healthcare team, you can achieve long-term success and enjoy improved health and well-being.