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8 Tips for Managing the Holidays After Weight Loss Surgery
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8 Tips for Managing the Holidays After Weight Loss Surgery

12.16.2020

​During the holidays, we are surrounded by so much extra – and delicious – food. And it's not like it's just one holiday. It's been Thanksgiving, and soon Christmas and New Year's Day and then Valentine's Day – special days all commemorated by food.

But how do you get through all these food-laden holidays and special occasions after having weight loss surgery? How can you maintain your eating plan and meet your nutritional needs while everyone else seemingly eats what they want?

It's not easy, but it's doable – if you plan ahead of time following these eight tips.

  1. Remember that it's about maintaining your weight, not losing weight.  Don't get frustrated by trying to lose weight during the holidays. Simply try to maintain where you were going in.
  2. Eat on your normal schedule, and don't save your calories. If your family is planning a special holiday gathering for lunch, eat your usual breakfast and snacks, and be sure to take your vitamins.
  3. Volunteer to bring something that you can eat and that you enjoy. This could be roast turkey, green beans and oven roasted veggies, or a crustless, low-sugar custard or pie.
  4. Keep your nutritional eating goals in mind and ask a family member for support. It's helpful to have a trusted family member support you. This person can help fend off food pushers and can keep you focused on things besides food.
  5. Don't beat yourself up if you overindulge. Be kind to yourself. Get back on track with the next snack or meal.
  6. Don't hang out in the kitchen. Volunteer to take the kids or the dog for a walk.
  7. Be smart when you put food on your plate.  Go for the protein first, even if it's cheese cubes. Choose green beans over green bean casserole or fresh fruit over cake.
  8. Drink plenty of water. Make sure to get in your needed water intake ahead of time, so that you enjoy the meal that you choose.

The staff of the Floyd Center for Bariatrics Services provides long-term post-surgery support to all its weight loss surgery patients, including helping with nutritional needs. If you've had surgery, call us at 706.509.5122 or email us at floydweightloss@floyd.org with any questions you may have.

If you are considering surgery, sign up for our online informational seminar.