Undergoing bariatric surgery is a life-changing decision, and the journey doesn’t end once you’re out of the operating room. Ensuring a proper recovery and adjusting to a healthier lifestyle are critical steps to guarantee a successful long-term outcome.
One of the essential parts of maintaining a healthy lifestyle after surgery is controlling the amount of food you consume. This is where portion control plays a crucial role in post-bariatric surgery diets. This article will explore five easy ways to practice portion control after bariatric surgery.
1. Use Smaller Plates and Bowls
An excellent way to control your portions is by using smaller plates and bowls when eating. Instead of filling up larger plates, which could encourage you to eat more, using smaller plates can create the illusion of eating a full meal while actually consuming less.
2. Eat Slowly and Mindfully
Take your time to savor each bite, chew thoroughly, and appreciate the flavors of your food. Eating slowly and mindfully not only allows time for your body to sense when it’s full, but it also helps with digestion. Be sure to pause between bites and pay attention to your body’s signals.
3. Divide Your Meals into Smaller Portions
Dividing your meals into smaller, well-spaced portions is a great way to practice portion control and maintain a post bariatric surgery diet. Instead of consuming three large meals, consider breaking them down into six smaller servings throughout the day. This can help with better digestion, absorption, and maintaining stable blood sugar levels while preventing overeating.
4. Listen to Your Body
Your body can provide valuable cues to determine when it’s time to stop eating. Tune into those signals and resist the temptation to continue eating out of habit or a desire to finish everything on your plate. If you feel full, don’t hesitate to stop eating to avoid overconsumption. You can always save leftovers for your next meal.
5. Maintain a Food Diary
Keeping a food diary can provide you with valuable insights into your eating habits and the kind of portions you’re consuming. By tracking what you eat, when you eat, and how much you eat, you can identify possible areas of improvement and make adjustments accordingly to ensure proper portion control. Additionally, knowing whether you can drink coffee after bariatric surgery can also be helpful and help you make healthier decisions.
To Wrap Up
After bariatric surgery, adhering to a suitable diet is pivotal in achieving long-lasting results. Regularly practicing portion control is a critical factor in adopting a healthier lifestyle and maintaining post-surgical success. Alongside portion control, staying informed about pre and post-operative bariatric diets is equally essential. Following these easy ways to practice portion control will not only improve your experience post-surgery but also set you on the path to a healthier, happier life.
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