For many people who are seriously overweight and struggle to lose the extra pounds through diet and exercise, weight loss surgery is a lifeline. However, the surgery itself is not a miracle and in order for it to work effectively for you, it’s important to prepare yourself for what’s going to require a lifestyle change. Here are some things that you can start doing now to make sure that you are ready.
Do Your Research
Professionals at oldedelmarsurgical.com can provide you with more information about what to expect both before and after your surgery. To makes sure that you are ready, it is a good idea to spend some time reading books, viewing websites, blogs and forums, and speaking to others who have had the surgery to get a clearer idea of what you can expect in terms of lifestyle changes and risks.
Make Diet Changes
Although the weight loss surgery is designed to help you get down to your ideal weight, many surgeons will recommend that you lose as much weight as possible naturally before you have the procedure. Before you go for surgery, making changes to your diet now will also help you get into the habits that you will need to implement after the procedure. Focus on eating three regular meals per day and one to two small, healthy snacks a day. Try to increase your consumption of protein and fresh fruit and vegetables as much as possible.
Start Exercising
If you are not currently very physically active, it’s a good idea to start some exercise to help you lose any weight recommended before your surgery and to get you use to good habits for the future. There is no need to overdo it; start small with gentle walks, cycling, swimming, or another activity that you enjoy. Gradually build up the intensity by adding a few minutes per day as you get fitter.
Quit Smoking
If you smoke, it is important to quit smoking and the use of any tobacco or nicotine products before you undergo weight loss surgery. Smoking has been proven to significantly increase the risk of complications both during and after bariatric surgery, and many surgeons will require you to be smoke-free for a minimum period of three months before they will agree to operate.
Drink More Water
As a general guide, adults need to drink at least two liters of water per day, so it’s a good idea to get in tune with your body’s thirst signals. Try to drink plain water as much as possible and eliminate sources of liquid calories like soda, juice, alcohol and energy drinks. If you don’t like the taste of plain water, you may want to consider drinking sugar-free cordial or water that is infused with fresh fruit to add some taste.
Weight loss surgery is not the quick fix that many think it is. If you have decided that this is the way forward for your health, it’s important to start implementing new healthier habits in your life from now on.
