Summer Eating Challenges

Summer is here with lots of beach and pool time.  Navigating the summer fun and making healthy eating choices can always be a challenge.  With schedules more relaxed and so many grilling nights, it is easy to make some unhealthy summer eating habits.  Whether you have undergone bariatric surgery or you are trying to watch your weight and looking into surgery, these tips can help you make healthy choices.

If you are heading out for a day trip at the lake, beach or pool and you don’t know what eating options will be available, pack your own cooler! Find out ahead of time whether the park or pool allows coolers or what food options are available.  This will help you plan and prepare instead of being stuck hungry with only fast food options.  Pack lots of handheld foods in your cooler such as carrot sticks, turkey, cheese cubes, grapes and bananas.  Healthy snack items such as protein bars (no sugar, low carb), protein drinks, nuts and low carb yogurt.  Make a lettuce wrapped sandwich with turkey, chicken or ham and cheese.  This is a nice cold and crisp snack that is satisfying and has good protein to keep you full longer.  Enjoy the outside; swimming and walking are great exercise!

Everyone loves to grill during the summer, if you are heading to a bbq these tips are for you.  Think about what you can bring to the table, something healthy that will ensure you can eat and enjoy yourself.  BBQ’s usually involve meat which is a great protein option.  You can even offer to bring your own chicken or healthy skewers.  If they are having burgers, ask for your burger lettuce wrapped with cheese.  This is a great low carb option that is very filling! You could also offer to bring a tossed green salad, a veggie tray with hummus or a fruit salad.

Enjoy the summer with your family while staying healthy! If you are ready to make a change now, schedule an appointment online today:

https://booknow.appointment-plus.com/b1231xd8/

A Lesson in Weight Loss – Teacher’s This Is Your Time

While most people think about losing weight before summer arrives, there is no better time for teachers to spend those 3 months focusing on taking care of themselves!

Teachers are used to putting in the extra effort and working hard to achieve their goals.  Weight loss surgery is just that, putting in the time and effort for long term weight loss.  The most successful method for long term weight loss is bariatric surgery.  There is no better time than now to start your weight loss journey.  Starting during the summer can set you up for a successful surgery during Thanksgiving or Christmas break.

Many patients try diets and exercise and fail time and time again.  Weight loss surgery sets you up for long term weight loss and a new healthier outlook on life.  Procedures like sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass can fix other health issues like reflux, diabetes, joint pain and depression.  The team at Trinity Bariatric Institute will support you and show you how to eat better, get on track with the right vitamins for your body and get in that exercise before and after surgery.  We are there every step of the way with you!

Bariatric surgery is a life changing procedure that can help you live the life you always wanted.  Are you worried about having surgery or costs of procedure? Dr. Dyslin is an expert at minimally invasive surgery, most patients go home the same day or next day.  Our insurance specialists will verify your insurance to see if you have bariatric benefits through your employer.  If you do not have bariatric benefits or are looking for cash pay surgery, we offer competitive rates and financing options for every budget.  Don’t let these obstacles get in the way of your weight loss journey, do something for yourself today.  Call or schedule online, 817-832-7227.

What role do vitamins play in bariatric surgery?

General immune health and support are top of mind for many of us.  As you know, following bariatric surgery there are several recommendations for micro-nutrient supplementation in order to help prevent nutrient deficiencies.  Here is a quick review of various nutrients and their impact on our immune health.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, an antioxidant, has long been studied for its impact on our health and well-being and is vital to help white blood cells fight off invaders and regular intake has been shown to promote health.

  • There are no current established post-bariatric surgery guidelines for the amount of vitamin C you should take. Be sure that your multivitamin provides you with at least 100% of the daily value.

Vitamin D

While traditionally thought of for its role in bone health, vitamin D is a powerful nutrient that serves many functions within the body—including support of the immune system.  Having a deficiency of vitamin D can negatively impact immune function.

Many bariatric surgery patients are deficient in vitamin D both before and after surgery.  Be sure you are getting your labs checked at least one time a year after surgery so that your doctor can guide you on the proper dose.

  • After bariatric surgery, it is recommended that you take at least 75 mcg (3,000 IU) per day of vitamin D until your blood levels of vitamin D reach >30ng/mL. Some patients need even more than this amount each day in order to reach a normal vitamin D level in their blood.

Vitamin A

Studies continue to show that many patients are deficient in vitamin A after bariatric surgery, and this fat-soluble vitamin is necessary to support the body’s ability to have a strong immune response.

  • The range of vitamin A that is recommended after surgery is between 5,000-10,000 IU each day depending on which procedure you had.

Zinc

This mineral plays a key role in boosting our immune systems.  Widely available as a supplement, it can be an important player in supporting immune health.

After bariatric surgery it is recommended that you consume between 8-22 mg of zinc each day depending on your gender and surgical procedure.

Selenium

This trace mineral is also a key nutrient for immune function, and it acts as an antioxidant, which helps the body defend against challenges.

There are no established guidelines for the post-bariatric patient for selenium intake, just that your multivitamin “contains” selenium.

Probiotics

Probiotics not only support gut health, but studies have shown that depending on the probiotic strain they can influence the immune system.  Certain strains have been found to increase immune response, especially in children.

  • There are no established guidelines for the post-bariatric patient for supplemental probiotic intake; speak with your health care provider for guidance on selecting a probiotic that best supports your needs.

Keeping the immune system strong and responsive is important to maintain health.  Bariatric surgery patients have additional challenges in maintaining an adequate intake of these nutrients and often require larger amounts due to reduced absorption.  Taking your supplements can help you stay on a healthy path.

 

Article provided by https://www.bariatricadvantage.com/