Overcoming Weight Loss Plateaus After Bariatric Surgery
After undergoing weight loss surgery, the initial weeks or months often bring about significant weight loss, accompanied by increased motivation and improved health. Chronic health issues and joint pain tend to diminish, allowing for a more active lifestyle. However, at some point, many bariatric surgery patients encounter what's commonly referred to as a "stall" or "plateau." This can be a frustrating setback where weight loss comes to a halt or even reverses. In this article, we explore some common reasons for stalled weight loss after bariatric surgery and suggest effective strategies to overcome them.
1. Wrong Food Choices:
In the post-surgery period, your meals likely consisted of lean protein sources and cooked vegetables. However, it's possible that other foods have crept back into your diet or that sugary beverages have made a return. If you find yourself craving high-carbohydrate foods like sugar, starch, brownies, pasta, bread, cereal, or chips, it's a good idea to explore high-protein, low-carb, or keto-friendly alternatives. The BariatricPal Store offers a variety of options to help you stay on track and accelerate your weight loss journey.
2. Proper Portions:
Immediately after surgery, you might have diligently measured every portion you consumed. Are you still doing so, or have you started estimating portion sizes? It's possible that you're inadvertently consuming more food than you realize, leading to excess calorie intake and a reversal of weight loss progress. Utilizing tools like food scales, measuring cups and spoons, portion control rings, and BariatricPal Portion Control Plate & Bowl Set can make portion measurement a breeze.
3. Lack of Exercise:
While exercise alone may not be as effective as calorie restriction for weight loss, it offers several benefits. Exercise helps burn calories, improves your mental state and mood, enhances self-confidence, and motivates you to make healthier food choices throughout the day. If you've fallen off the exercise bandwagon or never got started, consult your doctor and consider incorporating physical activity into your routine.
4. Monitoring and Accountability:
Holding yourself accountable can jumpstart your weight loss journey once again. This entails keeping a food diary and regularly weighing yourself. Smart scales, for instance, can not only track your weight but also provide insights into your body fat and muscle mass, offering motivation for healthy behavior.
In conclusion, hitting a weight loss plateau after bariatric surgery can be frustrating, but there are usually solutions available. The BariatricPal Store offers a range of foods and tools designed to help you get back on track and achieve your health and weight loss goals. Don't be discouraged; with the right strategies and support, you can continue your transformative journey toward a healthier, happier you.
