Blog

Finding Ways To Exercise With Children

October 17, 2012

Exercise is an integral part of life after bariatric surgery. Exercise helps you reach your target goals by getting past those nasty plateaus and also helps you maintain your hard-earned weight loss. Further, it makes you stronger and has been proven to make you happier (thanks to copious amounts of endorphins released while you sweat it out). Pre-operatively, exercise is encouraged to reduce operative risk. Patients who exercise regularly are also much more satisfied with the results of their bariatric procedure, regardless if they had a Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy or Lap-Band. You hear us talk about exercise all the time. “Join our Bariatric Exercise Program!” “Participate in our Connecticut walk for charity!” “We had so much fun at Aqua-Zumba class! Why did you not show up?” Maybe it was because you have children and find it hard to take the time to exercise. Let’s look at some options that you may find helpful: Walk – if you have a child of stroller age, then walking may be a good option for you. Invest in a good stroller that... Read More

Welcoming in the fall with a bariatric friendly Chicken stew

September 25, 2012

Autumn is a welcomed season in Connecticut. The crisp fall air encourages longer walks and adventures at the local pick-your-own orchard. And there is nothing quite as welcoming as a warm stew waiting for you after an active day outside. Bariatric patients, regardless if they had a Lap-Band, a Sleeve Gastrectomy or a Gastric Bypass, can have difficulty tolerating dry meats, such as grilled chicken or steak. This in turn leads some patients to avoid meats altogether. Stews, however, are very well tolerated and are a wonderful, comforting food that keeps well, can be frozen, and packed in small containers for lunch. Stews are also very family friendly (even kids would have a hard time resisting having a taste after smelling the wonderful aroma throughout the house). Stews can also be made with vegetarian ingredients such as lentils and beans. The key to making a bariatric friendly stew is to keep the stew mostly protein and low in simple carbs such as potatoes. Further, ensure that the stew is chucky, with the meat (if using) falling off the bone or... Read More

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

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