Abundant festive dinners can pose certain health dangers, especially for patients after recent weight loss surgeries. A bariatric dietician, Dr. Karolina Bauraitė, gives advice on avoiding digestive issues during the holidays.
Eating Your Way Through the Holidays After Bariatric Surgery
It’s December 15, 2021, the season of twinkling lights and, unfortunately, an avalanche of holiday menus. For those who have just had bariatric surgery, keeping on track with a postoperative diet isn’t a luxury—it’s the secret sauce for lasting success.
Why the Post‑Op Diet Matters
While the surgery gives you a powerful tool to tackle obesity and its side effects, about 25 % of patients risk bouncing back into excess weight if they slip on healthy habits. And trust me, that’s a lot of people who could be enjoying their new leaner self for longer.
In the U.S. alone, over 200,000 bariatric procedures were carried out in 2019, and the market is projected to grow at a steady 9.56 % per year until 2028. People opt for this life‑changing step not just for the slimmer silhouette but to kick obesity‑related ailments – think type‑2 diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and osteoarthritis – to the curb.
Holiday Eating: A Recipe for Danger?
Festive seasons can put a strain on the newly refurbished digestive system with:
- excessive alcohol that makes your belly feel like it’s having a marathon
- devastatingly heavy dishes that could drown your tiny stomach
- huge portions that overwhelm even the most disciplined diet
- and a noticeable drop in daily activity.
Dr. Karolina Bauraitė, a seasoned bariatric dietitian at Nordbariatric Clinic in Kaunas, Lithuania, guides patients on how to avoid relapse and still savor those festive feasts. Here’s her lightweight strategy, broken down into eight quick‑fire pointers.
8 Tips to Keep Your Stomach Happy This Holiday Season
- Plan Ahead. Set a fun menu beforehand, so you don’t get caught off guard by the cookie cannon or the oyster extravaganza.
- Start Light. Kick off with salads or lean proteins; that keeps your gut from blowing up in a burst of excitement.
- Mindful Portions. Use small plates or split your servings between days to avoid the “more is better” fallacy.
- Lean on Liquids. Water, unsweetened tea, or sparkling water can help your stomach feel full without adding extra calories.
- Chew Like a Chewing Champion. Take your time; chewing is your first line of defense against overeating.
- Stay Active. Even a short walk walks the holiday impulsions away. A brisk stroll after dinner turns festive jokes into calories burned.
- Limit Alcohol. Know your limits: a glass of wine can be worth a small plate of foie gras.
- Snack Strategically. Opt for health‑friendly options like fruit or nuts instead of chips or sprinkles.
Remember, the holiday season is about enjoying your loved ones and fabulous food while honoring the new, healthier you. With a sprinkle of mindful choices and a dash of humor, you can keep your new belly happy, and your doctor can roll up their sleeves in relief.
