Most of our summers are filled with BBQs and trips to the beach or lake. For some, summer eating and drinking can throw bariatric surgery patients in New York off track. You may be thinking, “After I’ve undergone weight loss surgery, how will I still be able to enjoy all of my favorite summer activities without undoing all of my hard work?” There’s no need to fret. Today, we’re going to cover some great tips to get through the summer months like a true post-bariatric surgery pro.
Great Tips For Eating Healthy This Summer After Your Bariatric Surgery
Follow these tips, and you’ll continue feeling great while still being able to participate in your favorite summer activities.
Going to a BBQ? Offer to bring a healthy dish.
If you’ve been invited to a BBQ, step up and offer to bring a healthy dish that’s both good for you and tasty. We suggest a mouth-watering marinated and grilled chicken breast, vegetables, and some tasty fruit salad. This will ensure that you have something to eat without feeling like you have to request special food from the host.
Choose the smaller paper plate option, or bring your own.
If you’re going to a summer party or BBQ, use the smallest plate available or even opt to bring your own little paper plates to use. Remember, if you’re using a large paper plate, you’re likely going to fill it up with food without even realizing it. Big plates lead to larger portions!
Eat the healthy protein first.
Fill your stomach with the healthy protein from your meal first. Whether you’re eating a hamburger patty or some tasty grilled chicken, eat that first. This will help you attain your daily protein goal while managing your appetite, ensuring that you don’t overeat.
Reach for and drink plenty of calorie-free drinks.
As we’ve mentioned in previous blogs, it’s very easy for patients who have undergone bariatric surgery to become dehydrated, and even easier when it’s hot and humid outside! Make sure that you’re drinking plenty of water or non-carbonated, calorie-free beverages when available. Not only will drinking a lot of water keep you hydrated, but it will also curb feelings of hunger and help you stay full longer so that you aren’t tempted to snack.
Watch out for those sliders!
Sliders, or slider foods, are usually snacks that have a ton of carbs in them, such as candy, chocolate, chips, cookies, crackers, etc. that don’t offer much in the way of nutrition, don’t keep you full for very long, and go down way too easily (hence the name). You’ll often find slider foods in abundance at BBQs and picnics. If you must eat these foods, take one handful or one cookie, and walk away without looking back. If you stand near these foods, you’ll end up giving in and grazing.
Take an overall look at what’s being served at the event.
When you arrive to the family BBQ or picnic, take note of what’s being served with your bariatric diet in mind. Remember, protein first, then vegetables, then carbs.
If you’re getting off track with your bariatric diet and need guidance, we invite you to contact our registered dietitian for help. We’re here for you and want to help you on your weight loss journey.
