My bariatric journey — Life after surgery.
Bariatric surgery is life changing in many exciting ways, but it can also be very overwhelming and lonely if you don’t have the proper support.
Support for AFTER your bariatric surgery
It’s never too early or too late in your bariatric journey to reach out for support.
You don’t have to do this alone!
Top 3 reasons why bariatric patients used our services last year…
Less than 1 year after surgery - Patients who recently had surgery (both locally and abroad) who were struggling to put all of the recommendations together to nourish themselves in a way that was enjoyable (e.g. Am I meeting my protein goal? Do carbs belong on my plate? But then there’s no room for vegetables? And what about dessert, will I have dumping?). We also tackled digestive issues like vomiting, reflux, diarrhea, constipation, difficulty digesting certain foods, etc.
Longer-term after surgery – Patients who were 2, 5, 12+ years after surgery who were looking to make changes to their diet. For these clients, we start with a full bariatric evaluation and then we start where the client feels ready to make changes. Common areas of concern were weight regain, not feeling full or satisfied at meals anymore, emotional eating, night eating, fear around “failing” their surgery, eating for a new health concern (e.g. high cholesterol), etc.
Pregnancy – Patients who were pregnant or planning for a pregnancy. These clients wanted to make sure they were doing everything they could to have a safe and healthy pregnancy. Accepting pregnancy weight gain was a topic of much concern for these clients. FYI - We have a course on pregnancy after bariatric surgery.
Most hospitals don’t have time to give individualized care and the companies who organize surgeries abroad typically cut off care once your feet are back on home soil.
We think you deserve better. In fact we know you deserve better!
3 ways we can support you AFTER your bariatric surgery…
Your Bariatric Survival Guide
This is our signature toolkit that will walk you through literally EVERYTHING that you’ll come across in the first couple of years after surgery. In our E-Platform you’ll find on-demand videos tackling all of the common digestive issues, summary cheat sheets (ex. for weight loss stalls, hair loss, etc.), meal plans for early post-op, visual guides on how to create balanced meals and snacks, high protein recipes, sweet & salty snack lists, a self-evaluation quiz to check-in on your habits every 6 months, and SO MUCH MORE!
Book a virtual appointment.
Work with an expert bariatric dietitian in the comfort of your own home with our virtual appointments! Whether you’re a newbie or years out from surgery, we’re happy to give you feedback overall on how you’re eating, provide some perspective on finding balance with all of the “rules” out there, and of course tackle what you’re finding challenging. If you have specific goals you’re wanting to work towards or especially if you’re not coping well (physically or mentally) since surgery, let’s chat!
***NOTE: This service is for Canadians only!
Join a weekly virtual support group.
Throughout the year we host virtual support groups that meet weekly. Connecting with others, especially in a small group setting (i.e. 3-4 people total) is a great way to feel heard in what you’re going through and to share your wins and struggles in a safe small community. The groups are a no-judgement and number-free zone (i.e. no mentions of calories, weight numbers or step counts allowed). Be sure to be subscribed to our email newsletter to know when the next group opens.
Book a FREE 15 minute call to chat with a dietitian to see if our services are a good fit for you today!
What our fabulous clients are saying…
“I was surprised after surgery how much my taste changed, what my body wouldn't tolerate, and my lack of interest in cooking. This was really tough for me as a self-proclaimed foodie!! My dietitian was able to not only give me tips and alternatives that worked, but also find delicious recipes that got me excited about eating again”.
— client 2 years after RYGB (worked with a dietitian)
"Bariatric Surgery Nutrition’s E-platform is an indispensable resource. I started using it one month post gastric bypass, but if you’re considering having surgery, it will answer all of your questions to help you decide. The many videos are clear and concise and I have watched several of them more than once. The extra written documentation provides even more info. The list of how much protein is in various foods is particularly helpful. A highly recommended program"!
— Nancy (purchased E-platform)
“It was such a relief to know that I’m not the only one who is struggling. The members of my support group were wonderful and non-judgmental. I found it easy to share and I got a ton of great ideas”.
— client 4 years after RYGB (joined a virtual support group)
I loved the honest and real conversations we had, the openness of others that allowed me to be more open, and, most of all, the feeling that others understood exactly what I was thinking and feeling. Using the handouts as a guide I was able to break down ways to adapt to a healthier lifestyle and to set realistic goals each week. I was able to measure even the smallest success, which kept me motivated.
Since the group has ended I have continued to use the tools and I am so proud of the work I did and continue to do. I am looking forward to the next round of groups and learning even more ways to continue on this life long journey in a way that promotes health, happiness and self-care.
— Elana (virtual support group participant)
