After you have had bariatric surgery, such as an adjustable laparoscopic gastric band or Lap-Band, you may feel that you have done what you needed to do to lose weight. But the procedure itself is not enough. After the procedure, there are a number of other professionals waiting to help you make and sustain progress towards your weight-loss goals. The best surgical weight-loss clinics will have these experts (and their detailed plans) lined up and ready to go even before the procedure is done, so that you know what to expect and how best to succeed.
What types of advice will you need? For starters, you’ll need the assistance of a dietician or nutritionist to educate you and provide tools on making healthy nutritional choices. You will need to know what you should eat – and, perhaps more importantly, what you shouldn’t. High-calorie liquids, such as juices or shakes, are a real no-no, for instance, whereas high protein foods should be prioritized.
You will even have to relearn how to eat. For example, you should avoid drinking and eating at the same time (to avoid filling up too fast with liquids). Also, you should be sure to chew your food well, so as to make it as fine as possible before you swallow it.
You shouldn’t neglect exercise, either. Incorporating regular physical activity in your new lifestyle is key to help improve your tone as you lose the weight. Having a personal trainer may be needed. In addition to being quite helpful, they can also provide the moral support and encouragement you need.
Ongoing Lap-Band support is crucial to success, not just the Lap-Band itself. Be sure you discuss all aspects of the Lap-Band program with your surgeon before committing to any weight-loss operation.