Vidhi Jain
Bariatric Dietician & Content Writer
Causes of Weight Plateaus After Bariatric Surgery and Ways to Prevent It?
Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure that has helped millions of people around the world lose weight and improve their health. However, even after successful surgery, some patients may experience weight loss plateaus. These plateaus can be frustrating and demotivating, but with the right approach, they can be overcome.
What are the causes of weight loss plateaus after bariatric surgery?
Poor eating habits
After bariatric surgery patients are advised to follow a diet that is recommended by their dietitian or doctor, that is low in calories and rich in protein. However, some patients may develop poor eating habits over time. They may start to snack more often or eat high-calorie foods, which can contribute to weight loss plateaus, which can also hinder the weight loss progress.
Inadequate Physical activity
Exercise is an important component of weight loss after bariatric surgery. It helps to increase the metabolism, burn calories and build muscle mass. However, some patients may struggle to maintain an exercise routine after surgery. This could be due to physical limitations or a lack of motivation. Lack of physical activity may lead to weight loss plateaus as the body is not burning as many calories as it could be.
Emotional factors
Emotional factors can also contribute to weight loss plateaus after bariatric surgery. Stress, depression and anxiety can all affect weight loss progress by increasing the cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a hormone that can increase the appetite and encourage the body to store fat. Emotional factors can also lead to poor eating habits, such as overeating or binge eating.
Insufficient sleep
Lack of sleep can affect the hormones that regulate the appetite and metabolism, leading to weight loss plateaus or weight gain.
Age
As people age, their metabolism naturally slows down, which can meke it harder to lose weight and contribute to weight loss plateaus.
Tips to overcome weight loss plateaus after bariatric surgery:
Monitor the food intake
One of the most effective ways to overcome a weight loss plateau is to monitor the food intake. Patients should keep track of what they are eating and ensure that they are consuming the right amount of protein, vitamins and minerals. They should also avoid eating high-calorie foods. Your dietitian or doctor can help you develop a healthy eating plan that promotes weight loss.
Increase physical activity
Patients should aim to perform at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day. This could include activities like walking, cycling, weight training, etc. Regular exercise can help boost metabolism and promote weight loss.
Making lifestyle changes
Patients may need to make certain lifestyle changes to promote weight loss progress after bariatric surgery. This could include reducing stress, getting enough sleep or practising relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga. Patients should also avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as these can both contribute to weight gain and hinder weight loss progress.
Consult your dietitian or doctor
If weight loss plateaus persist, patients should consult with their dietitian or doctor. They will monitor the diet and make the required changes if required in the diet, routine or medications to promote weight loss.
Weight loss plateaus after bariatric surgery is very rare, that may occur in some patients, but they can be overcome with the right approach. With these tips, patients can continue to achieve their weight loss goals and improve their overall health after bariatric surgery.
Aastha Bariatrics provides a multidisciplinary approach to help patients overcome weight loss plateaus. Dr. Manish Motwani, one of the best Bariatric Surgeon in India, along with his team provide support and counseling to help pateints stay motivated and achieve long-term success in their weight loss journey.
