Post Lap Band Info

Dietary changes

Patients who went through lap-band weight-loss surgery follow a strict diet. For the first 3-4 days following the surgery, you are only to take in clear liquids. Caffeine and carbonated drinks are not allowed as they cause the stomach to bloat thereby increasing its size. This could make the silicone ring slip which would require another surgical procedure.

For the next couple of months, you can only take in modified liquids. Modified liquids include soup, protein shakes and baby food. After that, you are free to take in food that was shredded by the food processor. Your diet should contain only fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, you'll also need to say goodbye to meat because it's going to be difficult to get this through your stomach's small opening.

Protein is very important after the lap-band weight loss surgery. The stomach can only hold a relatively limited amount of food so each morsel counts. It's better to take in food containing balanced amounts of nutrients and fiber as well as considerable amounts of protein for energy.

You must also remember to eat slowly and carefully after undergoing lap-band weight loss surgery. Your stomach is much smaller than before so it can only take so much pressure. If you're going through certain medications where you need to swallow pills, you may want to talk to your physician about alternative methods because pills and capsules are usually too big for the stomach opening to take in.

Exercise will still be essential after the lap-band surgery. About 30 minutes a day should do it on the first few months following the procedure. Make sure to at least rest for 2-3 days before going through any activity that would require a lot of movement like driving or working.

It goes without saying the lap-band weight-loss surgery would require a drastic change in one's lifestyle. People who enjoy eating in large amounts may find it difficult to adjust to the diet after the procedure. Therapy and support groups would be a big help for patients who find it hard to focus on their motivation for weight-loss. To lessen the shock due to a change in diet, try to adjust your diet to prepare yourself for what you would encounter after going through the lap-band weight loss surgery.

10 Tips For Success

Lap band success does not come for free. You must work at it. Here are ten tips that help you achieve your weight loss goals. Really focus on each one until you've internalized it and then move on to the next one.

1. Eat only three small meals a day
2. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly (15-20 times a bite)
3. Stop eating as soon as you feel full
4. Do not drink while you are eating
5. Do not eat between meals
6. Eat only good quality food
7. Avoid fibrous food
8. Drink enough fluids during the day
9. Drink only low-calorie fluids
10. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
11. I know I said ten, but I was always told it's better to over deliver.  Keep a positive attitude.  See Success10x if you need help.