Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a life-changing procedure that helps individuals struggling with obesity achieve significant weight loss. The surgery reduces the size of the stomach and limits the amount of food one can consume.
However, for the surgery to be successful in the long term, making key lifestyle changes is crucial. Unfortunately, bad habits can develop after surgery that hinder progress and even lead to complications. This article will explore the most common bad habits post gastric sleeve Turkey and how to avoid them for a healthier and happier future.
Why Developing Good Habits, Post-Surgery is Crucial
Your body undergoes major changes post-surgery, and how you approach food, exercise, and overall health must adapt. Good habits are essential for maintaining weight loss and avoiding potential complications. If you fall back into old, unhealthy behaviors, it can derail your progress. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle ensures you reach your weight goals and improve your overall well-being.
Habit #1: Overeating or Eating Too Quickly
One of the most common issues after gastric sleeve surgery is overeating or eating too quickly. Since your stomach is significantly smaller, eating too much or fast can cause discomfort, nausea, or vomiting. It’s important to listen to your body’s signals of fullness and take time to chew each bite thoroughly. A good strategy is to eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overwhelming your stomach.
Habit #2: Ignoring Portion Control
Portion control becomes incredibly important after a gastric sleeve. Even though your stomach is smaller, it’s still possible to overeat if you’re not mindful of your portions. Consuming large amounts of food can regain weight and stretch your new stomach. To avoid this, use smaller plates, measure out your portions, and avoid going back for seconds. Paying attention to serving sizes will help you stay on track.
Habit #3: Not Drinking Enough Water
Hydration is key after gastric sleeve surgery. Many people struggle to drink enough water, but it’s essential for recovery and overall health. Not drinking enough can lead to dehydration, which impacts digestion and energy levels. Aim to sip water throughout the day, but avoid drinking large amounts in one go, as your stomach may not tolerate it well. Keep a water bottle with you as a reminder to stay hydrated.
Habit #4: Drinking Liquids with Meals
Drinking liquids while eating is a habit that can cause issues after gastric sleeve surgery. Since your stomach capacity is smaller, drinking with meals can lead to discomfort or, worse, cause your stomach to stretch over time. It can also push food through your stomach too quickly, leading to hunger soon after eating. It’s best to wait at least 30 minutes before drinking any liquids after a meal.
Habit #5: Eating High-Calorie, Low-Nutrient Foods
After surgery, it’s important to fuel your body with nutrient-dense foods. Consuming high-calorie, low-nutrient “slider” foods like chips, sweets, and fast food can lead to weight regain. These foods offer little in terms of nutrition and can slow down your progress. Instead, focus on lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains to give your body the nutrients it needs to heal and thrive.
Habit #6: Skipping Meals
Skipping meals can be tempting, especially if you don’t feel hungry. However, doing so can lead to poor nutrition and cause weight gain, as your body might compensate by storing fat. Eating regular, balanced meals helps keep your metabolism running smoothly and gives you the necessary nutrients. Try setting meal times and sticking to them to avoid missed meals.
Habit #7: Not Taking Recommended Supplements
After gastric sleeve surgery, you may need vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent deficiencies. Skipping these supplements can lead to serious health problems, including anemia and bone loss. Work with your healthcare provider to determine the right supplements for your needs and make it a part of your daily routine to take them.
Habit #8: Failing to Exercise Regularly
Exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining weight loss after surgery. It’s easy to avoid physical activity, but this can lead to weight regain and slow overall progress. You don’t need to start with intense workouts; even light activities like walking or swimming can make a significant difference. Gradually increase your activity level to build strength and endurance over time.
Habit #9: Emotional Eating or Eating Out of Boredom
Emotional eating is a challenge many people face after gastric sleeve surgery. Stress, boredom, or emotional triggers can lead to overeating or consuming unhealthy snacks. It’s important to recognize these triggers and find alternative ways to cope, such as talking to a therapist, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that keep you busy and focused on something other than food.
Habit #10: Not Attending Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up appointments with your healthcare team are essential for tracking your progress and addressing concerns. Skipping these appointments can lead to undetected issues and derail your success. Your healthcare provider can ensure you’re on track with your weight loss goals, offer guidance, and monitor your overall health.
How to Break Bad Habits After Gastric Sleeve
Breaking bad habits can be challenging but possible with effort and support. Start by identifying your triggers and patterns, whether it’s emotional eating or skipping exercise. From there, work on creating healthier routines and replacing bad habits with positive ones. If needed, seek professional support from a nutritionist or therapist who can guide you in building sustainable habits.
Long-Term Success: Embracing a New Lifestyle
The key to long-term success after gastric sleeve surgery is embracing a new lifestyle and prioritizing your health and well-being. Staying committed to your new habits, staying active, and making mindful food choices will help you maintain weight loss and overall health. Remember, this is a lifelong journey, and celebrating small wins can keep you motivated.
Avoiding bad habits after gastric sleeve surgery is critical to achieving your weight loss goals and maintaining your health. You can ensure long-term success by being mindful of portion sizes, staying hydrated, eating nutrient-rich foods, and exercising regularly. Make sure to attend follow-up appointments and reach out for support when needed. Your new lifestyle is the foundation for a healthier, happier you!
If you’re ready to take the next step towards a healthier you, why not explore your options with Flymedi? Visit Flymedi today to review and compare top clinics, find trusted professionals, and choose the best care for your gastric sleeve journey. Take control of your health – your perfect clinic is just a click away!
