Creating Balance After Bariatric Surgery

Maintaining a healthy diet after bariatric surgery is crucial for your recovery and overall well-being. It's important to prioritize protein intake and gradually introduce a balanced diet over the first few months post-surgery. While it may take some time to find the right balance, you can still enjoy the foods you love by making some adjustments. Craving something sweet? Try a Greek yogurt ice cream bar or a protein mug cake. If you're in the mood for something salty and crunchy, consider having nuts, pickles, or even some Quest chips.

Remember, there are always alternatives available for the foods you enjoy. It's just a matter of being open to exploring them. As time goes on, you'll be able to introduce more variety into your diet.

What is a Balanced Diet?

As a bariatric patient, it's important to strive for a balanced diet. Variety is key, and you should be able to enjoy your food while being mindful of your nutritional needs. You have the freedom to decide what this balance looks like for you and your goals. With the right education and support, I firmly believe that you can incorporate all types of foods into your life (as long as they don't cause any issues) while still reaching your goals. It's about finding that individual balance and routine that works for you.

You don't have to completely eliminate entire food groups or give up the foods you love in the long term. It's possible to eat a variety of foods and still achieve your goals. You can enjoy your meals and look forward to them.

The Bariatric Plate Method

Ideally, you've already developed a healthy relationship with food before your surgery. Now is the time to continue those positive habits you've worked so hard to establish. Remember, you didn't have this surgery to live on a restricted diet forever or to be afraid of certain foods. Don't be disheartened by the initial restrictions; you're retraining your body and adjusting to the changes it has undergone. However, this doesn't mean you can never have carbs or sugar again. All foods can be incorporated into your diet after weight loss surgery, but not all the time or in large quantities.

Let's break down your plate:

Protein:

• Protein should always be your priority.
• Bariatric surgery patients don't require more protein than the average person, but due to the smaller stomach capacity, it will be the main component of your meals for a while to ensure your nutritional needs are met.

Veggies:

• After protein, vegetables should be the next component on your plate.
• They provide fiber and bulk, helping you feel fuller for longer.

Carbs:

• Over time, once you're meeting your protein goals and able to consume some veggies, you can gradually reintroduce carbs.
• This won't happen immediately; it takes time.
• There are two types of carbs: simple and complex. Simple carbs have fewer fiber and nutrients (candy, crackers, rice desserts, chips, etc.); complex carbs have more fiber and nutrients (whole grains, fruits, beans/legumes, etc.).

Food is not the Enemy

Have you ever felt like you can't control yourself around certain foods? If you feel guilty when you eat or enjoy something you like, know that you're not alone. Years of dieting and societal beliefs have made us view food as something negative. But food is not the enemy, and it never was. It's all about how you talk to yourself and the mindset you have towards food. So, silence that inner critic. Ignore the noise from your past self who might be tearing you down.

This is your unique life, and it's important to find enjoyment in it, which includes indulging in the foods you love. Taking care of your mental and emotional health is just as crucial, and sometimes that involves food (in a mindful manner, of course). You have every right to savor the foods you love. You deserve to relish your meals and grant yourself permission and freedom to enjoy these things.

Reflect on and Write Down the Following:

• What would it mean for you to genuinely enjoy your meals and cultivate a healthy relationship with food?
• What old beliefs do you need to release in order to make that a reality?

Remember, the purpose of your surgery was not to restrict yourself to grilled chicken, protein shakes and cottage cheese (unless that's what you prefer). Life happens, and you'll go out to eat, be social, and relish a variety of foods while still prioritizing yourself and your goals! It is absolutely possible. Balance is attainable. You can incorporate the foods you love into your lifestyle.

Source: thesleeveddietitian.com/youre-still-allowed-to-love-food-after-wls/