Adjusting to New Life with your Lap-Band®

Before you have the Lap-Band® Procedure done, you will need to commit to making a life change. While the Lap-Band is a non-anatomy altering, reversible procedure, it still requires lifelong commitment to a healthy lifestyle and a specific way of eating. Thankfully, there are great resources to help you adjust following your procedure. 

Dietary Changes

Immediately following the Lap-Band Procedure, you will need to follow a specific dietary plan provided to you by your specialist or dietitian. This plan will not only include the specific foods you may choose from, but portion recommendations and instructions on how to cut food into small pieces and chew them. Immediately following surgery, you will be required to follow a liquid diet for several days. Then you will move to soft foods before slowly adding in foods that require minimal chewing. Once you’ve passed the 42-day mark, or your specialist approves it, you may begin incorporating normal foods into your diet. Your specialist will provide you a list of safe foods and ones that are not recommended. 

Lap-Band Patients will need to commit to choosing high-quality foods. Because your new stomach pouch is so small, you don’t want to fill it with junk foods that lack the necessary nutrients your body needs. Skip foods or drinks high in sugar, fat, and excess calories, and instead choose lean proteins, fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. You will also want to avoid high-calorie, sugary drinks. Stick to water and sugar-free fruit juices. 

Chew Slowly

Not only will you need to adjust the foods you are eating, you will need to cut your food into small pieces and chew slowly. Your food needs to be mush in order to accommodate your new stomach opening. This will not only help you avoid stomach irritation, but it will lower your chance of minor complications with the band, such as slippage, stomach blockage, or an expanded stomach pouch. Taking small bites and chewing slowly will help you feel satisfied and full without overeating. 

Avoid Snacking

It’s best to avoid snacking between meals. It is one of the primary reasons for weight gain or no weight loss. You should stick to three small meals per day. Your Lap-Band should be adjusted so that three meals per day properly fills you. If you often find yourself hungry between meals, there is a chance that your band is too loose and you need to have it adjusted. 

Stay Active

You will want to stay active after the Lap-Band Procedure. Exercise is a healthy part of any weight-loss program, and there are no exercise restrictions with the Lap-Band. 

Aftercare

Aftercare is absolutely crucial after the Lap-Band Process, whether you are having your Lap-Band adjusted or simply following up with your specialist. Staying in contact with your Lap-Band Team will help you stay engaged in your weight-loss program. 

As the weight begins to come off, you will notice changes to your body. Many individuals experience increased energy and are able to do things they couldn’t previously, whether it be daily activities or specific exercises. The weight-loss journey can be an emotional one, and we recommend building a strong support system consisting of your family, friends, and Lap-Band Team.

Source: 

• Lap-Band Surgical Aid in the Treatment of Obesity: A Decision Guide for Adults