Make Bariatric-Friendly New Year's Resolutions

Thursday, 07 January 2010 10:01

It is that time of year, where approximately 2 million people make New Year's Resolutions. And for many, this is to lose weight or get healthier. Whether you are already a bariatric post-op patient, are just thinking about weight loss surgery, or only need to lose 5-15 pounds, there are several New Year's Resolutions you can make that will help you live a much healthier and happier lifestyle.

Fitness

Joining a gym or starting at fitness routine at any point in your weight loss journey is always a good idea. Remember to ask your doctor before beginning any type of weight loss program, especially if you are extremely overweight or have recently completed bariatric surgery. Additionally, pregnant women may have to follow a different exercise routine as well, depending on their due date and general health.

Even though many find it difficult to justify the cost of a monthly gym membership or purchase of home gym equipment, creating a budget and making cuts in unnecessary areas (like fast food and daily coffee purchases) can easily add up to the cost of a gym membership or monthly payment on a treadmill. Most gym memberships vary from about $30-100 a month, depending on your area and the gym's amenities. Try to find a gym that has fitness classes so you'll variety and ask if any personal training sessions are included with your membership. Many gyms, such as Lifetime Fitness and 24 Hour Fitness, usually offer a free consultation and training session to new members.

If you would rather work out at home, consider saving up for a treadmill or elliptical machine or purchasing one on credit with a no-interest loan. Paying off the debt before the interest payments start can be an affordable and smart solution if you can't afford to pay cash up front.

Diet

Beginning to eat a healthier diet can be the most difficult New Year's Resolution to make, especially if you are a new bariatric surgery patient just getting used to eating with your smaller stomach. Ask your doctor for diet recommendations, make sure you are getting enough protein and fiber, and always try to get in your suggested servings of fruits and vegetables.

Healthy Habits

Quitting unhealthy habits is a relatively easy way to get healthier in the New Year. Cutting down on soda and alcohol consumption, as well as quitting smoking, are solutions to create a healthier lifestyle. Indulging once in a while is okay, as long as you are prepared and spend the majority of your time committing healthy habits. Stay committed by charting your success on a calendar on your fridge or in some other visible area. Placing a sticker on each day you go without a soda or cigarette is surprisingly a great incentive- it allows you to visibly see your progress and is an easy motivator. Set a goal (say, 90 days without a cigarette) and once it's met, reward yourself with something fun, like a manicure or massage. Then, set another goal to work towards. The calendar system is also great for tracking weight loss milestones and days that you exercised as well.