2012

Walking from Obesity

September 7, 2012

Walking is one of the best forms of exercise that most bariatric patients can do before, and especially after weight loss surgery.  Walking may be difficult before bariatric surgery and you may not be able to go far at first.  Be assured that you will get stronger and that you will surprise yourself by what you will be able to accomplish. We encourage all persons who are considering weight loss surgery to start walking daily.  After surgery, walking is often the first form of exercise that most patients do on a daily basis.  How do you take the first step? Don the gear. Pick sun hats and rain jackets that are breathable to keep you comfortable. Ensure that you are wearing comfortable and supportive walking shoes.  Wearing shoes like flip-flops or ill-fitting shoes can cause injury to feet and ankles and cause leg and back pain.  If you have pain in your feet, consult a podiatrist to help you put your best foot forward and enable you to enjoy walking. Plan your route. At first, you may just be walking to your... Read More

Putting “Me Time” On The Schedule

August 24, 2012

Back to school shopping is in full swing.  Parents are participating in the yearly scavenger hunt for color matched supplies to give their children the best possible start to the school year.  And of course there are also after school ballet classes, the little league games, boy scouts meetings and driving lessons for teenagers to fit into your schedule.  Summer is slipping away fast and so is the “me time” on your schedule. Regardless if you have a family with children or are a busy professional, scheduling some time for yourself can be very challenging.  We all want more time to relax and exercise, but being able to implement this goal can be difficult and the dreaded (yet always at the ready) Mommy (and/or professional) guilt is just waiting around the corner. After bariatric surgery, it is strongly recommended (read required) that patients exercise daily, eat a healthy balanced diet that allows for plenty of protein, take daily supplements, find ways of managing stress and get a good night’s rest.  Whew!  Now that you are post Gastric Bypass, Lap-Band or... Read More

Finding Inspiration After Weight Loss Surgery From The Olympic Games

August 10, 2012

It is hard not to get awe struck when watching the Olympic Games on television. The athletes make it look so easy, their bodies smoothly achieving record-breaking feats. Amazing, are their stories of perseverance. The enduring workouts, multiple injuries and time away from family and friends all obliged to cumulate at a chance to participate and maybe even medal at the Olympic Games. The athletes’ seemingly super-natural powers can be intimidating. However, what makes an athlete successful is very similar to what makes a bariatric patient successful. Set your goal. It is great to have a long term goal in mind, such as running a ½ marathon or lose 120 pounds. However, like every athlete knows, focus on smaller goals that let you reach your dreams. Surpass the hurdles. If you are going to do something amazing, you will be bound to have some road blocks. Don’t give up after a setback.  Come to the monthly On Track Workshop and get motivated and energized again! Get a cheer squad. Why do the cameras in the Olympic Games focus so much... Read More

Coping With Summer Weather After Weight Loss Surgery

July 27, 2012

Although we all enjoy the seasonal changes and the warm weather, sometimes the heat can be too much of a good thing. In order to get the most out of bariatric surgery, keeping a healthy lifestyle is the key to success. This means that patients must drink plenty of water, eat a healthy, protein rich diet, exercise regularly and take daily bariatric vitamin and mineral supplements. Even with the best of intentions, the summer heat can but a damper of any healthy lifestyle. Here are some ideas on how to ensure that you adhere to a healthy summer lifestyle: Drink plenty of water. Water is the best source of hydration. Keep a sport’s bottle handy so you can sip water frequently and keep your thirst quenched. Stay away from sugary drinks such as sports drinks and fruit juices–they add little nutritional value and just add unnecessary calories. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol not only adds empty calories but also is dehydrating.  Even though a cold beer may be tempting on a hot day, beer can lead to dumping syndrome (alcohol is easily... Read More

Chia Seeds Can Be A Helpful Supplement After Weight Loss Surgery

July 11, 2012

When most people think of chia seeds they think of the green sprouts that provide the “hair” to kitschy pottery resembling the heads of state and cartoon characters (you are probably singing the jingle right now, too). Little did we know in the late seventies that these same seeds that you soaked, as a kid, to grow a green fleece on your clay sheep was also so nutritious. Maintaining a healthy diet after bariatric surgery is very important. Patients are encouraged to consume a target of 75 grams of protein daily and to ensure proper hydration, adequate amounts of fiber and take daily multivitamin and calcium supplements. This is easier said than done. This is mainly due to the small “pouch” size of Gastric Bypass, reduced stomach capacity of the Sleeve Gastrectomy and the adjustment of the Lap Band System. Chia seeds are a helpful supplement that can add protein, fiber and a lot of nutrition. They are not, however, a replacement for your daily multivitamins and calcium supplements. The humble chia seed is a great supplement for bariatric patients... Read More