Community Corner

Is a Nutrition Plan Necessary for Bariatric Success?

May 17, 2017

It’s not uncommon to hear potential weight loss surgery patients question whether they will be able to follow the strict dietary program that typically follows a bariatric procedure. Many worry it will be too difficult, and others wonder how important it is to follow the nutrition program to achieve their goals. The truth is, following the dietary guidelines is essential to long-term weight loss, which is why our skilled bariatric surgeons and medical team gradually adapt you to a customized plan. This not only makes the transition to smaller portion sizes and healthier food easier, it helps to set you up for lasting success. Part of the reason bariatric surgery patients need to follow a nutrition plan is because stomach function often will be altered by the procedure. As a result, it can be uncomfortable for you to consume too much or to eat a lot of sugary, oily, or fried foods. It’s also important to follow our dietary guidelines so that you can intake nutrient-dense food that enhances your health and well-being. Each weight loss surgery has its own... Read More

Can Bariatric Surgery Change Your Food Drive?

April 24, 2017

Many patients experience a change in food preferences and tastes following bariatric surgery. While not everyone will notice such alterations, it’s a common enough phenomenon that it’s worth looking into the mechanism behind it. Our extensively trained weight loss surgeons and medical staff will help you through the various experiences following bariatric surgery, including an evolving appetite. Some of the most commonly reported changes in taste are aversions to certain foods, typically animal proteins like chicken, steak, and bacon, as well other foods like eggs and dairy products. A reduced craving for sweet, sugary, and fried foods is also normal. Interestingly, few individuals develop an aversion to fruits and vegetables. In most cases, these dislikes are strong in the beginning but begin to subside over time, allowing patients to enjoy many of their favorite foods again. As far as sugary and fried foods, you should try to limit those items anyway. If your aversion to food seems to be related to texture or an intolerance, it may help to change the preparation or substitute the food with another option. Animal... Read More

A Household That Eats Healthy Stays Healthy

April 4, 2017

When someone makes the decision to have bariatric surgery they are ready to make significant dietary and lifestyle changes. Unfortunately, sometimes patients find that one of the biggest obstacles to making those changes is their family members. It might be a spouse that continues to bring home sugary snacks or a child that never learned to enjoy vegetables and insists on eating macaroni and cheese every night. It’s not fair for someone that is trying to lose weight to be tempted with junk food all the time, and it is very difficult to plan, shop for, and prepare more than one dinner each night according to everyone’s dietary demands. While it’s not necessary for the whole household to make changes in order for the patient to be successful, it certainly makes things easier if they do. The time leading up to and after bariatric surgery should be looked at as a time of change for everyone–a chance to try new foods, cook together, and become healthier as a family. Below are some suggestions for getting both you and your household... Read More

What Is the Best Way to Treat Obesity?

October 20, 2016

Just as there are a multitude of causes of obesity, so too are there numerous ways to address this disease. At Griffin Bariatrics, our extensively trained weight loss surgeons offer the most advanced techniques available to help patients lose weight and improve their health with long-term results. We believe, and studies have shown, a multimodality approach to obesity treatment offers a better chance of losing weight and keeping it off. That is why we offer state-of-the-art bariatric procedures, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric banding, and gastric bypass, as well as a comprehensive pre- and post-operative support system that includes fitness and nutrition programs. Part of what makes obesity a complicated disease to treat is the fact that this condition often has both genetic and lifestyle influences. As a result, a strict diet and exercise regimen is rarely effective alone. Additionally, many patients are able to lose weight initially, but find that, over time, some weight returns. With our On-Track Workshops, patients have access to counseling, support groups, cooking demonstrations, and exercise classes that can provide the help they need whenever... Read More