Life After Weight Loss Surgery

Life after weight loss surgery means many adjustments, not only in activity but also in diet and how one thinks about food.  For Jane and Mike Speer, they started with a liquid diet, graduating to creamy foods like yogurt or applesauce, to pureed food, and finally to three regular meals a day.

Their "regular meals" however, are much smaller than in the past. The Speers eat the protein they need first, followed by nutrient-packed vegetables, fruits and carbohydrates. They avoid "empty" calories and take vitamin supplements to ensure they're getting the nutrition their bodies need.

"You try things, and if your body tolerates it, you can eat it," Jane said. Most restaurant menus offer something the couple can eat, although they usually share a meal or take half home for the next day. "Your system tells you when you're full, and if you go beyond that point, you feel very uncomfortable. Part of the learning process is learning when to quit," Jane said.

"It's possible to eat around your surgery by eating lots of small meals and the wrong foods, and put your weight back on. This is not a silver bullet for weight loss. For us, it's a tool to help us overcome some of those hurdles we couldn't get past before," Mike said. Following the recommended program of follow-up doctor visits, eating right and exercise helps ensure success.