Wellness Wednesday

Happy Wednesday folks!

Today in support group we will be discussing "Food Triggers" and "Plans for the Future."

When it comes to weight loss surgery, the surgery definitely speeds the process along but many patients will admit that it takes a lot of work especially in regards to the food they eat and how they eat.

#1. Eat and drink slowly. Eating or drinking too quickly may cause a dumping syndrome reaction. Foods or liquids that enter the small intestine too quickly may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, and may lead to diarrhea. To prevent dumping syndrome, choosing foods and liquids low in sugar is a must and to eat or drink slow and wait 30-45 minutes before or after each meal to drink liquids.

#2. Drink liquids between meals. To prevent dehydration, one should expect to drink at least 6-8 cups of fluids daily which equates to 48-64 ounces. Drinking liquids during meals may cause pain as well as nausea and vomiting as well as feelings of fullness which may prevent one from eating nutrient rich food.

#3. Focus on high protein foods. Protein, Protein, Protein, After surgery eating protein rich foods will really be essential in the healing process as well as maintaining a good long term diet option. Adding in lean beef, chicken, pork, fish or beans is a good way of introducing protein into your diet.

#4. Take recommended vitamin and mineral supplements. From the portion of your small intestine that is bypassed, your body is unable to absorb enough nutrients with foods alone. Taking a multivitamin for the rest of your life is expected and additional supplements such as calcium, iron, thiamin, vitamin B-12 is also to be expected.