Gastric sleeve surgery can help you overcome obesity and live a happier, healthier life. But it is not a magic cure. For gastric sleeve to be effective, you must commit to practicing healthy lifestyle habits.
With our many years of practice, the team at Endobariatric has identified a few key habits that help gastric sleeve patients lose weight successfully and keep it off.
They plan their meals.
The most successful gastric sleeve patients plan out what to eat at every meal and keep the ingredients on hand. They know that if they fail to plan, they end up making poor dietary choices.
They eat slowly and deliberately.
Successful patients understand their smaller stomachs can only hold so much food, and that eating too fast can lead to unpleasant side effects like nausea and vomiting. They cut their food into small pieces, chewing and swallowing slowly to let the food pass smoothly through the digestive tract.
They drink enough water.
Successful patients know that the feeling of thirst can easily be confused with the feeling of hunger, so they make sure they drink enough water. They know that dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, dizziness and constipation. They don’t drink sodas or other sugary drinks that are loaded with calories but nutritionally worthless.
They exercise regularly.
Successful patients understand that regular exercise can accelerate the weight loss process. They start out slow with short walks and gradually build their stamina. Over time, they realize that regular exercise makes them feel better.
They stick to a good sleep schedule.
Successful patients realize that quality, restful sleep is crucial to weight loss. They know that when they don’t sleep enough, they have cravings for sugary or starchy foods and that they don’t have enough motivation to exercise.
They have a support system in place.
Successful gastric sleeve patients are firm believers in having a strong support system to cheer them on throughout the journey. An in-person weight loss surgery support group is ideal, but other patients find support and solace through friends, neighbors, family members or even online or Facebook groups.
They ask for help when they need it.
Successful patients never assume they have all the answers. They are not too shy to seek help when they have questions or need guidance. They have good relationships with their medical providers.
Take the First Step With Endobariatric
If you are interested in learning more about what it takes to lose weight successfully with gastric sleeve, Endobariatric invites you to schedule a consultation at our practice. Call or email us today to request an appointment.
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“Changing lives…one sleeve at a time.”