By
Before you have weight loss surgery, there are a few things that you can do over the weeks and months prior to your procedure so that your body is as healthy as possible. You should also begin preparing yourself mentally for the changes that you will see in how your body looks and feels. Mental conditioning is also important so that you’re prepared for the changes that you’ll need to make with your diet and movement.
Talk to Your Doctor
Talk to your doctor about your upcoming weight loss surgery. Find out about the finer details related to the procedure you are having, such as a gastric bypass or a stomach sleeve. Consider joining a support group so that you can learn about how many calories you should consume and how you might view your new body.
The Logistics
Consult with your insurance company to make sure the procedure will be covered. Talk to your doctor about how long you’ll need to stay in the hospital and the kind of recovery that you’ll go through. You will likely be on a liquid diet for the first few weeks after weight loss surgery until your body can tolerate solid foods. As you begin to eat solid foods, you will need to eat those that have the essential nutrients and vitamins in them that your body will need instead of foods and beverages that are empty calories. Make sure you have these things on hand.
Take Care of Yourself
It’s a good idea to stop smoking and drinking so that your body is healthy for surgery and recovery. Try to change the foods that you eat before your surgery so that you can begin losing weight on your own. Once you can adjust to eating healthier foods instead of foods with higher calories, then it will often be easier to transition after surgery.
Look Ahead
Learn about the risks that could be involved with the surgery, such as blood clots. Begin exercising when you can to prevent blood clots from forming.
Begin eliminating soft drinks and juices from your diet, and drinking more water so that you can get accustomed to it. Before surgery, you’ll also need to start focusing on your emotional and mental health to prepare for the changes ahead.
