8 Months After Bariatric Surgery: Post-op Instructions
Medically Reviewed by Katelyn J. Mock, US-Registered Dietician (R.D.)
Let’s talk about alcohol. In general, most physicians and health care professionals will recommend avoiding alcohol after surgery and there are multiple reasons why.
The first is usually because alcohol contains more calories per gram than protein and carbohydrates. Alcohol has 7 calories per gram, protein and carbs each have 4, and fat has 9 calories per gram.
Why you should not drink alcohol
- Drinking excess alcohol can lead to a “beer belly.”
- Another reason to limit alcohol is that some people find they get “drunk” much faster and this can potentially lead to dangerous consequences.
- It is also possible to feel normal after consuming alcohol, but have a higher blood alcohol content. Regular alcohol can also increase your risk of ulcer formation.
- Another important fact is individuals that have had a weight loss procedure have a higher rate of developing alcoholism.
If you do decide to have some type of alcohol occasionally, do so with trusted friends or family, have a little food in your stomach, and always have a sober driver available.
As you get further out from surgery, you are likely becoming more aware of the power your mind can have on your body.
Yoga focuses on that mind/body connection and, specifically how to get comfortable when you may be in an uncomfortable position or posture. Being able to be calm and focus the mind in these exercises can transition to having that same mindset in stressful situations in your day to day life.
Meditation as an individual practice, or with yoga, can further build on the strength of the human brain. The foundation of long-term weight maintenance and living a healthy life is strong mental health.
Good mental health, just like good physical health, takes some work.
Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone this month and look into some of these practices to aid in your inspiring journey to not just a lower weight, but improved health.
Tip of the Month
To prevent excess snacking or grazing at work, bring simple and healthy snacks that you can keep in your office or break room.
Are you sick of protein drinks and powder, but still have a ton of it in your pantry? Here are some ideas for ways to sneak that protein into your diet.
Mix 1 Tbs. of protein powder with 6oz of Greek yogurt and top with fresh berries of your choice
Mix 1 Tbs. of protein powder into your oatmeal. Add your favorite toppings, such as slivered almonds, dried or fresh fruit, even a scoop of nut butter
Add 1 Tbs. of protein powder to your favorite flavor of pudding.
If you have unflavored protein powder, add 1-2 tsp. at a time to mashed potatoes, soup, even cottage cheese.
References
- Penn Medicine Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Blog. Can you drink alcohol after weight loss surgery? July 10, 2012.
