7 Months After Bariatric Surgery: Post-op Instructions
Medically Reviewed by Katelyn J. Mock, US-Registered Dietician (R.D.)
At seven months post-op, you are
- in a reasonably good routine with meals
- vitamin/mineral regimen
- consuming 64+ oz of water
However, the “honeymoon” phase of surgery is likely over or coming to an end and REAL life is starting to creep in.
Now is a good time to really focus on mindful eating strategies and being aware of what hunger or eating cues you are sensitive to. Losing weight and being healthy is never just about food.
A simple definition of mindful eating is eating with intention and attention—or eating with purpose and awareness.” This is something that requires practice and a constant “checking in with yourself” process, but not self-judgment – Bariatric Times
Eating mindfully is something that requires us to make mistakes and learn from before we can master it.
Bariatric surgery is only a tool to help you lose weight, it is not going to keep you healthy or at your goal weight forever. It is the decision that you make every day that affects this.
Visit our Facebook support group page and search for videos and written posts about mindful eating.
As you get closer and closer to your goal or ideal body weight, it tends to get more difficult to lose weight.
Here are some helpful websites to aid in your Mindful Eating journey:
- https://www.fammed.wisc.edu/files/webfm-uploads/documents/outreach/im/ handout_mindful_eating.pdf
- https://amihungry.com/
- http://www.thecenterformindfuleating.org/eatingmindfully.com
- http://bariatrictimes.com/the-mindful-eating-cycle-preventing-and-resolving-maladaptive-eating-after-bariatric-surgery/
A big part of living your healthiest and happiest life is exercising regularly. Ideally, exercise should be one of the best parts of your day.
If it feels like more of a burden, maybe it is time to do some exploration and find a new activity that you enjoy.
That can mean stepping out of your comfort zone a bit. Consider trying water aerobics or swimming laps.
In winter months, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Maybe you love to move your body to a beat, Zumba and other dance style aerobic classes may be an excellent fit for you.
Beware of Gallstones
Gallstones or Cholelithiasis, are the hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in your gallbladder.
Being obese and losing a significant amount of weight in a short period can independently put you at increased risk of getting gallstones.
After surgery, most people that experience cholelithiasis, develop symptoms around 6 to 23 months post-op.
If you experience rapid, intense pain in the upper right portion of your abdomen or the center of your abdomen (below the breastbone or sternum), have back pain between your shoulder blades, or pain in your right shoulder; you may have gallstones.
Call your physician right away to be evaluated and if the pain is bad enough, seek immediate medical attention.
Tip of the Month
Many exercise facilities and studios have a “new student pass” where you can try out their equipment or various classes at a reduced rate.
This is a great way to try a new workout with little risk and without a significant investment.
