In weight loss operations, almost every patient has tried different diet types more than once before the operation and cannot get sufficient results and experiences the plateau period as an almost impossible process to break. Patients who ultimately want to get rid of obesity and decide to have the operation lose weight rapidly in the first post-operative period and regain their motivation.
That is…until we come across the plateau period again;
CAN’T I LOSE WEIGHT EVEN IF I HAVE THE SURGERY??
The plateau period is quite natural in the post-operative period, as in every weight loss process. The body starts to adapt to the reduced calorie intake over time, and in fact, at this point, it is necessary to focus on fat loss rather than weight loss. In this regard, you can get help from your bariatric team, observe your fat/muscle ratio together or follow the thinning in your body.
Although the plateau period is a natural process, I leave a few tips below in order to break the plateau and continue weight loss in a shorter time.
KEEP A RECORD OF FOOD CONSUMPTION
Even if you have a habitual diet and changed eating behaviors, keeping a food consumption record will allow you to realize the mistakes you have made during the day, perhaps without realizing it. You may have started to consume foods that you should not consume, even in small portions, without realizing it, especially in social environments. With the food consumption record, you can observe what you eat more objectively by taking notes.
ATTENTION TO PROTEIN TAKING
Even if you have started consuming carbohydrates, re-entering a diet that is carbohydrate-restricted and increased protein intake during plateau periods will help you get through this pause period. Because most of the time, the pause period is not about fat burning, but about muscle metabolism.
MAKE CHANGES TO THE SPORTS SETUP
Making changes in your current sports routine will help you overcome the plateau period while surprising your muscle mass. Working different muscle groups or increasing your sports intensity and time a little more will create an energy deficit.
REGULAR SLEEP AND WATER CONSUMPTION
Regular sleep and drinking enough water daily accelerate metabolism. In the absence of sleep and water, the body minimizes energy expenditure and therefore it will be difficult to burn calories.
After all, remember that plateau periods are normal and temporary. Stay positive, maintain healthy habits and remember that our obesity team is always by your side and ready to support.