There is lots to consider when it comes to looking after your new stomach, body and mind following surgery. It is unrealistic for anyone to be 100% perfect at everything however, so I’ve created a list of ‘must dos’ - key things you want to do daily to cover your basics, ‘should dos’ - things which will definitely help with a smoother post-op journey, ‘recommended to dos’ - aspects to keep in mind, and last but not least, ‘could dos’ - condiderations which you may find supportive along your journey.
MUST DO
- Take a comprehensive multivitamin daily
- Stay hydrated
- Eat enough protein
- Incorportate planned exercise regularly
- Avoid alcohol initially post-op *
*Speak to your surgical team about recommended duration as each centre differs in opinion
SHOULD DO
- Have regular bloods taken
- Attend follow up appointments
- Meal plan and meal prep
- Avoid grazing and high sugar/energy drinks
- Separate food and fluids by 30 minutes
- Eat slowly and chew well
Recommended to do
- Incorporate resistance exercise 2-3x per week
- Gradually increase fibre intake from fruits and vegetables
- Weigh weekly
COULD DO
- Listen to bariatric related podcasts
- Follow bariatric blogs for recipe ideas
- Join online bariatric support groups
- Attend bariatric related workshops or retreats
