The "Why"
Bariatric surgery can often put this blood sugar condition into remission.
What is Type 2 Diabetes
These "empty calorie" foods, like crackers and chips, can slide right through the pouch without providing fullness.
What are "slider foods"?
This vitamin is crucial for nerve function and is often taken sublingually or via injection due to absorption issues.
What is Vitamin B12?
These achievements, like fitting into an airplane seat or crossing your legs, are celebrated as signs of success.
What are non-scale victories (NSVs)?
The psychological phenomenon of feeling hungry out of habit or emotion, rather than physical need.
What is "head hunger"?
This condition, characterized by high blood pressure, often improves dramatically after surgery.
What is hypertension?
This macronutrient is always the first priority to be consumed at every meal.
What is protein?
To prevent anemia, a lifelong supplement of this mineral is essential
What is iron?
Consistent movement and building muscle mass are key components of this habit that complements dietary changes.
What is exercise (or physical activity)?
This type of eating, driven by stress or emotions rather than physical hunger, requires new coping mechanisms after surgery.
What is emotional eating (or head hunger)?
Surgery can resolve this sleep disorder, allowing patients (and their partners) to rest easier.
What is sleep apnea?
This uncomfortable sensation can occur if you eat too quickly or too much, often leading to nausea or a cold sweat.
What is dumping syndrome?
This form of calcium is recommended over calcium carbonate because it doesn't require stomach acid for absorption.
What is calcium citrate?
The key to sustained success isn't just the surgery, but making these permanent changes to your lifestyle.
What are healthy habits?
This condition, where too much stomach acid enters the esophagus, can sometimes worsen after sleeve gastrectomy.
What is acid reflux or GERD?
This painful joint condition is often alleviated due to reduced weight and inflammation post-surgery.
What is osteoarthritis?
A key habit post-surgery, advising patients to stop eating at the first sign of this.
What is satiety or fullness?
A deficiency in this "sunshine vitamin," which helps with calcium absorption, is common and must be supplemented.
What is Vitamin D?
Connecting with others who've had surgery, either online or in person, provides this crucial element for long-term success.
What is a support group (or peer support)?
This long-term risk after surgery requires continuous adherence to your eating and exercise plan.
What is weight regain?
This liver condition, often caused by obesity, can lead to serious damage but frequently improves or resolves after bariatric surgery.
What is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)?
Patients are encouraged to take small bites and chew thoroughly, often recommended for this many times per bite.
What is 20-30 times?
Vitamin labs must be monitored for this period of time after your surgery.
What is for lifetime?
A significant physical change after rapid weight loss that may require further surgical procedures for comfort and aesthetics.
What is excess skin?
A common post-operative side effect, often due to rapid weight loss, that can lead to surgical removal later.
What are gallstones (or gallbladder issues)?