The Importance of Diet and Exercise for Bariatric Patients

The key to long-term success with weight loss surgery and the ability to lose weight and KEEP the weight off is lifestyle modification in the form of diet & exercise.

Diet After Bariatric Surgery

After bariatric surgery, you will need to follow a specific nutritional plan for optimal results and health:

  • High Protein - Focus on lean protein sources
  • Low Carbohydrate - Limit starches and sugars
  • Low Fat - Choose healthy fats in moderation
  • Bariatric Multivitamins - Required for life after surgery with regular vitamin level checks

Items to Avoid

  • Refined sugars
  • Liquid calories (sugary drinks)
  • Alcohol in excess
  • Caffeine
  • NSAIDs/Aspirin
  • Tobacco and smoking of any kind

Warning: Dumping Syndrome

Failure to follow the recommended diet can result in dumping syndrome. This occurs when food arrives in your small intestine more quickly than normal. Symptoms include:

  • Abdominal cramping
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Sweating
  • Lightheadedness

Exercise After Bariatric Surgery

Exercise and lifestyle change are key parts of your long-term success. Start with what you know and build over time.

Post-Surgery Walking Program

Our comprehensive 24-week walking program takes you from your first steps after surgery to completing a 5K walk.

  • Safe, progressive overload approach
  • Clear weekly instructions
  • Achievable milestones to track progress
  • Designed specifically for bariatric patients
View Complete Walking Program

Post-Surgery Exercise Timeline

Immediately after surgery: Walking and climbing stairs allowed
At 2 weeks: Unrestricted cardiovascular activity permitted
At 4 weeks: Core engagement and lifting more than 20 pounds allowed
After 4 weeks: Resistance training with bands or weights can help reduce excess skin

Exercise Goal

After 2 weeks, your goal should be 30-45 minutes of activity daily, 5 times per week.

Exercise Options

Consider different avenues to stay active:

At Home

Workout apps, online programs, home equipment

Outdoors

Walking, hiking, biking, swimming

Gyms

Private boutique gyms, commercial gyms, personal trainers

Group Activities

Zumba, cycling clubs, dance classes

Remember: Consistency is the most important factor in your success!