Nutrition

Focusing on bone health and osteoporosis prevention before and after weight loss surgery

March 22, 2012

You are probably familiar with the roles that calcium and vitamin D play in building strong bones. Most people and clinicians think that obese individuals have strong bones, since pressure (weight) on bones makes for strong bones. Recent research indicated otherwise: Many persons suffering from obesity have a sedentary lifestyle, thus do not have the strong bones previously associated with carrying extra weight Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. Studies have found that persons with large amounts of excess body fat have Vitamin D stored in the fat, unable to release it to help the body build strong bones Obese persons are more likely to be malnourished, often being deficient in key nutrients and calcium necessary to build strong bones What can you do to ensure strong bones before weight loss surgery? All patients meet with a registered dietitian before weight loss surgery to address nutritional concerns to best prepare for weight loss surgery. General recommendations for patients who will be undergoing bariatric surgery are: Increasing physical activity – we understand that exercise can be difficult before bariatric surgery, thus... Read More

The Seven Habits of Successful Weight Loss Surgery Patients

January 12, 2012

Bariatric surgery is often referred to as a tool toward weight loss. Ever wonder how to best use this tool or what other tools will lead to the best outcomes? We have put together a list of 7 essential components to maximize your weight loss and overall health. 1. Follow-up. The importance of life-long follow-up with the surgeon cannot be understated. It has been proven to dramatically increase weight loss, especially with the Lap-Band procedure. It provides accountability and education, but also can prevent medical concerns from becoming severe. 2. Understand how it works. The Gastric Bypass, the Sleeve Gastrectomy and the Lap-Band provide satiety through a mechanical component: The procedures create a smaller stomach, leading to faster satiety with little food. However, not all foods are created equal. Solid protein sources, such as fish, seafood, legumes, poultry, pork and beef will empty slowly out of the stomach, leading to long-lasting satiety – simple carbs will leave you hungry again within an hour. Thus, we recommend eating protein first, then veggies and rarely starches and fruit. Thin soups, even though... Read More

Becoming a discriminating gourmet after weight loss surgery

December 28, 2011

Bariatric surgery, commonly known as weight loss surgery, is not about being on a diet for the rest of your life. It’s about learning how to make the type of bariatric procedure you had, be it Gastric Bypass, Lap-Band, Sleeve Gastrectomy or a Revisional surgery work for you. Many patients think that it is about depriving themselves and “being on a diet” for life. We dare you to think about it a bit differently: Become a discriminating gourmet. It is a new life, a new start, a chance to start over and enjoy really good food without guilt. • Be smart. Bariatric surgery helps patients feel satisfied with less food, especially when protein-dense foods are eaten. To make the most of your bariatric procedure, choose a solid protein source first, then veggies and avoid carbs such as rice, pasta and potatoes (carbs are quickly broken down and do not provide long lasting satiety, but rather empty calories). • Go for variety. Protein-rich foods can be quite boring if all you eat is chicken. Dare to venture into new food territory!... Read More

High Protein, Low Sugar Desserts for Weight Loss Surgery Patients

December 2, 2011

We are in the middle of the holiday season and everyone seems to be indulging. Don’t feel left out! Even though we recommend limiting sugars after the Sleeve Gastrectomy, the Lap-Band and especially after the Gastric Bypass, everyone wants to serve a special dessert when guests arrive. These treats are high in protein and low in sugar but do not compromise flavor. Chi-Chi-Chi Chia Panna Cotta (makes 6 servings, about 80 calories and 11 grams of protein) 1 envelope unflavored gelatin 3 TBSP Splenda ¼ TSP salt ½ cup skim milk Seeds of ½ vanilla bean 2 cups Greek yogurt 1 TSP lemon zest 1 TSP fresh lemon juice 2 TBSP chia seeds (optional, but not nearly as fun) In a small pan, stir together gelatin, Splenda, salt, milk and vanilla and let stand a few minutes. Heat on low heat until simmering and gelatin dissolves. Add mixture to a blender with the yogurt, lemon zest and lemon juice. Give it a quick blend. Divide mixture into 6 small glasses and cover with plastic wrap. Chill overnight in fridge and... Read More

Thanksgiving Strategies Addressed at On Track Workshop for Weight Loss Surgery Patients

November 16, 2011

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and you may already be preparing for the yearly family feast. We put a lot of pressure on ourselves during the holidays and it can be a stressful time. It can be particularly hard after weight loss surgery, especially if not everyone is particularly supportive. Thus, we will be discussing coping strategies at this Saturday’s On Track Workshop. We’ll get started with some fun exercise. Come with comfy clothes and get ready to Zumba! We will finish the exercise segment with some holiday exercise ideas. Dr. Ehrlich, Becky McAndrews, PA-C and Delphine Geraci, RN, CBN will be here to trouble shoot questions and will discuss concerns such as weight regain and post-op complications and the necessity of follow-up after weight loss surgery Chef Greg O’Gorman is going to be entertaining us with a seasonal cooking demonstration. Come and taste his recipes that are bound to be both nutritious and delicious! Hillary Freedman, RD will be discussing bariatric nutrition and the special concerns weight loss surgery patients face. She will be discussing Thanksgiving tips for... Read More

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