Intermittent Fasting After Bariatric Surgery: Is It Safe?
Intermittent fasting is a hot topic right now in the dieting world. But is it safe after weight loss surgery like the gastric sleeve or gastric bypass? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. It must be understood that not all doctors will agree on the benefits of intermittent fasting for bariatric patients. This article will explore the potential risks and benefits of intermittent fasting after bariatric surgery.
Why Intermittent Fasting May Not Be Recommended Immediately After Bariatric Surgery
Intermittent fasting is generally not recommended by healthcare professionals because it can put you at risk for nutritional deficiencies after weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery changes the size of your stomach and, in some cases, the way that your body absorbs nutrients. This means that you may not be able to consume the same amount of food that you could before the surgery.
Immediately after weight loss surgery, patients are advised to not to fast in order to prevent malnutrition and medical complications. Foods are so restricted during this time that you’ll need to focus on getting enough calories and nutrients from food. You should also work with your doctor or nutritionist to make sure your diet meets all of your body’s needs.
When Can I Start Intermittent Fasting After Bariatric Surgery?
The answer is yes, but not right away. If you’re in any of the healing stages post-bariatric surgery, do NOT try intermittent fasting. It is important that you follow the dietary guidelines provided by your doctor or nutritionist for the first 12-18 months after weight loss surgery. This is to ensure that your body is getting all of the necessary nutrients and calories needed for optimal health.
Once you have adjusted to your new diet and your body has had time to heal, intermittent fasting could be a beneficial part of your post-bariatric surgery lifestyle. Intermittent fasting can help reduce overall calorie consumption, but it is important to be aware that it can also make you feel pushed to eat larger portions at each meal. If this happens, it is important to be mindful of the amount of food you are consuming and make sure that you are still getting all of the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs.
Tips for Intermittent Fasting After Bariatric Surgery
If you plan on incorporating intermittent fasting into your post-bariatric surgery diet, here are some tips to help you do it safely and effectively:
- Make sure to eat enough during your non-fasting periods to get all of the essential vitamins and minerals needed for optimal health.
- Drink plenty of water during your fasting periods to help keep your body hydrated and to help prevent hunger.
- Listen to your body. If you find yourself feeling overly hungry or lightheaded during fasting periods, stop the fasting and resume eating.
- Be mindful of your portions. Even if you are fasting, it is important to be mindful of the amount of food you are consuming and make sure that you are still getting all of the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs.
- Talk to your doctor or nutritionist before starting any new diet plan.
Intermittent fasting can be a beneficial part of a healthy lifestyle, but it is important to understand the potential risks and benefits of intermittent fasting after bariatric surgery. Intermittent fasting is not recommended as part of your initial post-bariatric surgery diet, but once your body has had time to heal and adjust, it can be a safe and effective way to help you reach your weight loss goals.
Is it possible for me to follow an intermittent fasting plan after my surgery?
Intermittent fasting is an effective approach for post-op bariatric patients to help maintain weight loss and foster healthy eating habits. It allows for the regulation of meal times and limits the overall number of calories consumed without imposing strict limitations on what can be eaten.
What steps can I take to increase my metabolism following bariatric surgery?
It is essential to begin and keep up a consistent exercise regimen after undergoing bariatric surgery. Doing so will help maintain muscle mass, bone density, and increase your metabolism.
Is it possible to consume slim fast after undergoing gastric bypass surgery?
For the first three weeks, you should focus on consuming liquids that are nutrient-rich, such as skimmed milk, soups, Marmite and Bovril drinks, homemade smoothies, unsweetened fruit juices, meal replacement drinks like Slimfast, and protein drinks or protein water. You should strive for a daily intake of at least 60 grams of protein.
What steps can I take to begin losing weight again after bariatric surgery?
A pouch reset is a method of returning the stomach to its regular size by significantly decreasing the amount of food consumed. Although it is possible to do this independently, it is highly recommended that a bariatric surgeon and dietitian are consulted for support.
If you’re planning to incorporate fasting into your post-bariatric surgery routine, Fasting Books has got you covered. They offer a range of books catering to different fasting requirements and fitness goals. Find the perfect book for yourself and embark on your fasting journey with confidence. Visit FastingBooks now!
