Post-Op Winter Weight Regain: 4 Ways To Shed

Medically Reviewed by Katelyn J. Mock, US-Registered Dietician (R.D.)

Weight regain after bariatric surgery could be an issue especially in winters. When it’s dark at 5 pm, you crave to binge eat and relax. Winters could bring to a halt your post-op weight management routine.

Let’s discuss avoiding gaining back pounds post weight loss surgery in winters.

Cutting Pounds in the Cold Weather

According to a study, in a colder environment, brown fat is activated, that produces heat to burn regular white fat. You are not only “what you eat” but also “how physically active you are.” ^[1]“Brown fat fuel utilization and thermogenesis” Kristy L. Townsend, Yu-Hua Tseng, Published: January 02, 2014
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The more physically active you are after weight loss surgery, there’s a better chance for weight loss maintenance.

Swap Foods

• Coconut water (less sugar, more electrolytes) in place of juice.
• Tahini (flavored and similar creaminess) in place of Mayonnaise.
• Dark chocolates make you feel more satiated as compared to others.

Warm-Up Without Calories

• Skip seasonal beverages that can add up to more calories.
• Hot flavored teas are advisable.
• Broth-based soups are a healthy and warm pick.
• Avoid comfort eating that accounts to overeating and weight regain.

Alternates To Exercising

Exercising could be challenging in winters. Below are some creative ideas to  maintain an active routine without

• Opt for a take-out rather than a home delivery.
• Use the stairs whenever possible.
• Try temptation bundling (eg. gym+audiobook of your favorite author)
• Fidgeting can burn some 350 calories per day 
• Park in the last row at the grocery store.
• Do push-ups, stretches, and crunches while watching your favorite tv show.
• Search YouTube for some short yoga videos to try in your living room.
• No gym equipment at home? make use of furniture.
• Shovel part of or the whole driveway YOURSELF.

References

1. “Brown fat fuel utilization and thermogenesis” Kristy L. Townsend, Yu-Hua Tseng, Published: January 02, 2014