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How to Lose Weight with Gastric Sleeve Surgery (steps toward a healthier lifestyle)

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There is a lot of misinformation surrounding obesity, which in turn means there is a lot of misinformation about treatment options. Obesity is not simply being overweight, it is a chronic health condition that can potentially escalate to being life-threatening. There are genetic, behavioral, hormonal, environmental, and metabolic factors that can influence a person’s predisposition toward gaining weight. Even common medications, such as insulin or birth control, can cause weight gain. So, it takes a lot of effort to overcome those elements, especially in cases of obesity. 

Choosing weight-loss surgery

Many people with obesity opt to lose weight by having gastric sleeve surgery (also called a sleeve gastrectomy or bariatric surgery), a minimally invasive procedure that essentially removes 80-85% of your stomach. The procedure will decrease your appetite, which will cause some weight gain. However, continuing bad lifestyle habits will be counterproductive to that progress. So, the best way to lose weight after a gastric sleeve is to fully commit to a lifestyle change. 

Preparing for gastric sleeve surgery 

The true goal of bariatric surgery is to improve your health through weight loss. Accomplishing that, however, starts in the weeks before the surgery. Committing to a better lifestyle means enacting certain habits that will keep the weight off and improve your overall health in the long-term. Prior to surgery, these are some of the healthy habits you should begin:

  • Exercise at a consistent rate you can maintain, whether that is walking in 10-minute increments throughout the day or continuous movement for one hour a day most days of the week
  • Choose foods with a lot of nutrients, like protein, vegetables, and fresh fruit, instead of empty calories, like processed foods, frozen meals, and sugary drinks
  • Get adequate sleep every night and practice stress management
  • Drink lots of water and limit alcohol consumption 

Losing weight after gastric sleeve surgery 

How fast you lose weight after the gastric sleeve will depend on your commitment to making impactful changes. Your weight-loss journey must be one element of a continuous path toward a healthier life. The sleeve gastrectomy is meant to help you, not do all of the work for you.

If you’re ready to get started, get in touch with us at Lenox Hill for more information and learn about all of your weight-loss options.