How to Avoid Regaining Weight After Bariatric Surgery

Many people who have weight-loss surgery are excited at the new opportunities for them post surgery. They imagine a life without medical conditions associated with obesity and are ready to begin living without the extra weight.

They are also concerned about the possibility of gaining weight back post surgery.

Unfortunately, over time some people do regain the weight after weight-loss surgery. Therefore, to achieve optimal weight-loss results, it is important to follow the nutritional guidelines provided post-surgery as a part of your new lifestyle.

To prevent weight regain after weight-loss surgery patients must follow a healthy diet plan with the focus on whole foods and continue to follow the guidelines for eating after surgery. Suggestions to stay on track include:

• Eat lean proteins, whole grains, low-fat dairy, fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid foods containing more than 15 grams of sugar per serving.
• Select foods low in fat.
• Track protein intake and get at least 60 to 80 grams/day. Protein containing foods will help keep you full and satisfied.
• Making time to eat, at least 3 times a day. Eating slowly (20 to 30 minutes/meal) is also very important.  
• Make sure your fluid needs are met with 48 to 64 ounces of low or non-calorie beverages.
• Separate eating and drinking by 30 minutes. This is a primary diet principle that must be continued. 
• Continue to take suggested multivitamins and mineral supplements on a daily basis.
• Exercise 250 to 300 minutes per week. This level of activity plays an import role in the maintenance of weight loss.

Poor food choices

In some cases, people who resume eating foods high in fat or sugar regain weight or experience minimal weight loss following weight-loss surgery. Therefore, to achieve optimal weight-loss results, it is important to follow the nutritional guidelines provided post-surgery as a part of your new lifestyle.

Foods to avoid include:

• Milk shakes, malt drinks and all high-calorie liquids
• Cakes and pastries
• Fried foods
• Pudding
• Chips and other high fat snack foods
• Soft drinks
• Ice cream
• Candy

You can also find many healthy recipes after weight-loss surgery on this blog.

Learn more about weight-loss surgery at Penn by attending a free information session about weight-loss surgery.