After bariatric surgery, adopting healthy habits is important for successful long-term health. However, certain bad postoperative habits can significantly hinder progress and even cause complications. Here are 11 bad habits to avoid after bariatric surgery.
Bad Habits To Avoid Post-Op
1. Skipping Follow-Up Appointments
- Why It’s Bad: Bariatric surgery requires ongoing medical monitoring to track weight loss, check for nutrient deficiencies, and manage potential complications.
- Better Habit: Attend all scheduled follow-ups with your bariatric team to stay on track and address any concerns early.
2. Consuming High-Calorie or Sugary Foods and Drinks
- Why It’s Bad: Foods like candy, chips, and sugary beverages provide empty calories, increase blood sugar, slow weight loss, and can stimulate the hormonal chemistry of weight gain.
- Better Habit: Focus on nutrient-dense foods like protein and vegetables. Skip sugary drinks and choose water or unsweetened beverages.
3. Skipping Protein
- Why It’s Bad: Protein is crucial for healing, maintaining muscle mass, and staying full. Skimping on protein can lead to fatigue, muscle loss, and stalled weight loss.
- Better Habit: Aim for at least 60-80 grams of protein per day (or per your surgeon’s recommendation) from sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, and protein supplements.
4. Not Taking Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
- Why It’s Bad: (Bypass type especially) bariatric surgery reduces the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, leading to deficiencies in iron, calcium, vitamin D, B12, and others.
- Better Habit: Take all prescribed supplements daily and get regular lab work to check nutrient levels.
5. Drinking Alcohol
- Why It’s Bad: Alcohol is high in calories, can be absorbed faster after surgery (leading to quicker intoxication), and increases the risk of ulcers and dependency.
- Better Habit: Avoid alcohol, especially in the first year after surgery, and consume sparingly afterward.
6. Lack of Hydration
- Why It’s Bad: Dehydration is a potential problem after bariatric surgery, leading to fatigue, dizziness, and even hospitalization.
- Better Habit: Sip water throughout the day, aiming for at least 64 ounces of fluid daily.
7. Neglecting Exercise
- Why It’s Bad: Failing to stay active slows down weight loss, reduces muscle mass, and makes it harder to maintain weight loss long-term.
- Better Habit: Gradually incorporate exercise into your daily routine, starting with walking and advancing to strength training and aerobic activities.
8. Grazing or Snacking Frequently
- Why It’s Bad: Eating small, calorie-dense snacks throughout the day (grazing) can lead to consuming more calories than you realize, slowing or reversing weight loss.
- Better Habit: Stick to planned meals and snacks that align with your bariatric diet plan. Avoid mindless snacking.
9. Smoking or Using Tobacco
- Why It’s Bad: Smoking increases the risk of ulcers, poor healing, and long-term complications like marginal ulcers or stomach pouch issues. Not to mention lung cancer means not being able to breathe without an oxygen tank.
- Better Habit: Quit smoking entirely before and after surgery. Seek support if needed.
10. Comparing Yourself to Others
- Why It’s Bad: Everyone’s weight loss journey is different. Comparing your progress to others can lead to frustration and a loss of motivation.
- Better Habit: Focus on your own goals and celebrate personal milestones, no matter how small.
11. Thinking Surgery is the “Easy Fix”
- Why It’s Bad: Relying solely on surgery without making lifestyle changes often leads to higher chances of weight regain.
- Better Habit: Understand that bariatric surgery is a tool, not a cure. Success requires long-term commitment to healthy habits.
The Takeaway
The worst post-op habits for bariatric patients often involve neglecting the rules for eating, hydration, and follow-up care. The good news? With the right habits—like eating slowly, prioritizing protein, staying hydrated, and exercising—you can set yourself up for lasting success. Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but your dedication makes all the difference!
