It’s no secret that bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure. But many people need to realize that the changes continue after surgery. To achieve long-term success, it’s essential to maintain your energy balance. This implies eating the right foods and getting enough exercise.
For example, high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are essential for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing hunger.
Read more: Types of Fiber You Should Eat After Bariatric Surgery.
We will discuss the importance of energy balance after bariatric surgery and provide tips for maintaining your health and happiness!
What Is Energy Balance?
Energy balance is the ratio between the energy you consume (calories) and the energy you expend (burn). This balance determines whether or not you gain, lose, or maintain weight. In a caloric surplus, your body stores additional energy as fat; in a calorie deficit, your body uses stored fat for fuel.
What are the Top Nutrients to Monitor After Bariatric Surgery?
Following bariatric surgery like gastric bypass & gastric sleeve surgery there are several essential nutrients to monitor. These include calcium, Vitamins B12 and D, iron, zinc, selenium, iodine, and protein. Additionally, it’s essential to consider your overall calorie needs and the types of foods you’re eating- such as carbohydrates and fats.
Tips To Maintain An Energy Balance After Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is a major life-changing event that can offer significant health and lifestyle benefits. However, sustaining the desired weight loss outcomes requires a commitment to a healthy lifestyle and an understanding of energy balance. The key to maintaining successful long-term results post-bariatric surgery is managing energy balance or the difference between the number of calories eaten and the number burned. Here are tips to help you effectively maintain an energy balance:
• Monitor your diet: Pay attention to what, when, and how much you eat. Incorporate lean proteins and fruits/vegetables into each meal, as these options provide beneficial nutrients while avoiding excess calories.
• Include physical activity: To help support your body’s needs post-surgery, include some daily physical activity. This can be in walking, running, biking, etc. Exercise also helps to reduce stress and promote healthy sleep patterns.
• Track your progress: Keep an eye on your energy balance by tracking how many calories you consume and how many you burn with physical activity. This can help ensure you get the most out of the healthy lifestyle habits you’ve implemented. For example, it may be time to adjust your diet and activity level if you consume more calories than you burn. Some ways to calculate the calories are:
• Use a calorie counter/tracker app
• Count the number of calories you burn during exercise with an activity tracker or wearable device.
• Speak with your doctor or nutritionist: Discuss any concerns or challenges you may face while maintaining energy. Your healthcare provider will help provide guidance and answer any questions you may have.
Maintaining an energy balance is a critical factor in successful bariatric surgery outcomes. By implementing the tips above, you can ensure that your body has the proper nutrients and fuel to perform efficiently following bariatric surgery. For the best weight loss surgery in West Texas, contact West Texas Bariatrics. Our surgeons and staff are dedicated to providing excellent care and helping you achieve your goals.
