Excess weight has been linked to several health problems and conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea and chronic fatigue syndrome, but few people can lose hundreds of pounds of weight on their own. Gastric bypass surgery continues to be the solution for obese patients who need to lose 100 pounds or more, but even the most successful procedure requires a post-procedure weight management program to maintain results.  

Managing life after the surgery requires significant lifestyle changes and modifications in daily habits, and most of these are learned with the help of a psychotherapist, nutritional counseling and support groups.

From new workout routines to eating a high-protein meal plan, here are some healthy lifestyle tips for living well after drastic weight loss:  

Exercise after Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass patients often need at least 2-3 weeks of healing, rest and recovery before any type of formal exercise program can be pursued but light walking is recommended as soon as the following day. After healing is complete, low impact aerobic exercises can be the most effective routines for a fitness program. According to the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute of the Cleveland Clinic, bariatric surgery patients can pursue vigorous exercises 4-6 weeks after surgery and most can pursue a variety of activities that increase the heart rate and give all major muscle groups a workout. Ideal workouts for bariatric surgery patients may include:

• Water aerobics
• Low-impact dance aerobics
• Step aerobics
• Resistance band exercises
• Pilates or yoga
• Light jogging or speed walking
• Elliptical trainer workouts

Eating Well after Weight Loss Surgery  

Gastric bypass procedures completely change the natural functioning of the stomach, and several dietary modifications will be necessary immediately following the surgery. Eating soft, pureed and liquid foods during the days and weeks after surgery is the typical menu plan for most patients, and maintaining a healthy diet may require foods such as:  

• Protein shakes and bars
• Fruit smoothies
• Soft carbohydrates such as rice, oatmeal and cooked cereals
• Sugar-free snacks
• Dairy-free products
• Easily digestible whole grains
• Pureed vegetables
• Soups and stews
• Steamed fruit and steamed desserts  

Since weight loss surgery reduces the size of the stomach, eating small quantities of food at regular intervals throughout the day is the best way to maintain healthy energy levels. Avoiding too much food and liquid at one time can also prevent discomfort and nausea.  

Psychotherapy after Gastric Bypass Surgery  

Many bariatric surgeons recommend psychotherapy before the surgery to ensure a patient is mentally and emotionally prepared to cope with life effectively after the drastic change. Still, many people undergo gastric bypass surgery without addressing emotional problems that are part of a dangerous cycle of food addiction, eating disorders or other mental health problems. Consulting with a therapist to tackle difficult emotional issues can make weight loss surgery more rewarding and lay the foundation for a healthy lifestyle for the long-term.   

Stress Management after Weight Loss Surgery  

Managing stress without turning to food can be a challenge for any individual, and any underlying stress triggers that are causing you to eat for comfort may require professional help (see above). Still, there are several ways to manage stress effectively without drugs, medication or a treatment plan, and these can involve some simple lifestyle changes such as:

• Massage therapy
• Acupuncture
• Yoga or deep breathing exercises
• Meditation
• Pursuing a hobby
• Support groups    

Bariatric surgery offers several benefits for the morbidly obese who can no longer lose weight with drugs, diet changes and exercise alone. Still, even the most successful procedure demands an effective weight maintenance strategy after surgery to keep the patient in great shape and work toward a healthier lifestyle. 

Managing stress and emotions without turning to food, working with a therapist, and engaging in a consistent exercise routine are just a few ways to implement a post-surgery weight management plan. Learn more about weight loss counseling and bariatric procedures in our information guide, or consult with a bariatric surgeon in your area to find out more about gastric bypass and related procedures.