What to Eat After Bariatric Surgery

by BariatricsWeight Loss Surgery

We have already discussed that getting a Gastric Sleeve is only part of the equation. The magic formula to losing weight and keeping it off? A long-term healthy diet after the procedure. In fact, the secret to being a successful bariatric patient? Still, a healthy, balanced diet for life.

If you are reading this, you are probably doing research on life after bariatric surgery. The bariatrics staff at VIDA Bariatrics wants to help you be prepared and know what to expect, once you’ve been discharged and are ready to take your new stomach pouch for a spin. Let’s start your weight loss journey the right way, with realistic expectations and knowing how you can make the most out of the procedure.

Food after Gastric Sleeve Surgery will not change.

Your habits won’t change automatically either. This is where you must consult with your doctor so you can eat the right way after getting any bariatric surgery. One of the benefits of getting a Gastric Sleeve is that not only are you getting a smaller stomach, but also the Grehlin hormone, which causes hunger, will be substantially reduced. Even after all of this, it is still possible to overeat.

Eating Too Fast After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Eating too fast after Gastric Sleeve surgery is also something you should be conscious about. First, your stomach is still elastic, so if you overeat constantly, you will overstretch it again. Second, take into account that as you eat, your stomach sends a signal to your brain so you get that feeling of fullness. This is not always simultaneous, and like any muscle, your stomach has memory: it was used to being overfed. It is particularly important for bariatric patients to remember this and be aware of their eating habits!

Understanding your diet after Gastric Sleeve Surgery

The following weeks are a vital part of the procedure. Your bariatric surgeon will give you simple instructions on how to reintroduce food the proper way to your new stomach. Remember that in the first week after surgery, your diet will mostly consist of clear liquids. Introducing food too early can potentially hurt your esophagus and cause you unnecessary pain. Around 10 days after surgery, you can expect to start feeling like new again, this includes feeling hungry. The focus is still on a mostly soft diet. At the 3-week mark, soft solid meals can be included. Most patients will be cleared to eat a normal diet around a month post-surgery. This, however, means that you still have to be mindful of the ingredients in all of your meals, be it liquid or solid. Simple carbs, fried foods, over-processed foods, and large amounts of sugar after Gastric sleeve are a straight no. Being conscious of your diet post-surgery and for the rest of your life are the key to success!

From entrées to bariatric snacks: what and how you should eat!

Apart from some dangerous problems that may result from not eating balanced meals; such as diarrhea, gas, and vomiting, life-long benefits will only be achieved through life-long eating habits.

It is important to know the nutritional quality of our food. These are some of the basics to keep in mind:

  • Eat small portions and at a slower pace
  • Don’t drink your calories, beware of carbohydrate and sugar contents in sodas, juices, and other drinks
  • Avoid drinking water while you eat
  • Plan your meals and snacks

With the help of a nutritionist, you can work on a meal plan that is feasible for you and gentle with your Gastric Sleeve.

Best Snacks for Bariatric Patients

Snacking is sometimes associated with weight gain. While any dedicated bariatric patient will take all the precautions to follow a healthy diet, avoiding snacks is the wrong approach. VIDA Bariatrics advises to instead practice mindful snacking. Go for low calorie, high protein snacks such as plain yogurt, low-fat cottage cheese, egg whites, and lean meats. Choose whole foods. Fresh fruits and vegetables make great snacks. Raw nuts such as almonds and cashews, with no salt or sugar added, are easy to carry and their “crunch” will help curb cravings.

Reaching Ketosis after Gastric Sleeve

Eating healthy fats instead of carbs or sugars will also help you reach ketosis. Ketosis is a normal metabolic process that will help you burn unwanted fat. The principle of ketosis is simple:  you burn more fat when you rely on healthy fats for fueling your body instead of carbs. Bariatric patients can benefit from reaching ketosis after Gastric Sleeve surgery and lose weight, lose stubborn fat and achieve an overall healthier metabolism.

Are you considering bariatric surgery but want more information? Let us help you understand the procedures, their advantages and prepare you for the changes you can expect afterward! Contact us now at (619)610-1667.

Read Also: Portion Sizes for After Weight Loss Surgery

The Truth About Weight Gain After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

by BariatricsWeight Loss Surgery

The decision to get Gastric Sleeve Surgery comes with a lot of hope for patients and what post-op life will be like.

As one of the safest bariatric surgeries preferred by the expert medical team at VIDA Bariatrics, the Gastric Sleeve allows patients to lose weight thanks to a smaller stomach and less Ghrelin production, the hunger-causing hormone.

It is a fact that after getting Gastric Sleeve surgery, patients can expect to lose weight for up to 18 to 24 months. But beyond all of the success stories flooding the internet with bariatric patients who have lost up to 80% of their weight, it is easy to forget a hard topic: weight gain after a Gastric Sleeve.

Can you gain weight back after Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Is it possible to regain weight after bariatric surgery? Yes. To better address this topic, we had a chat with some of our board certified bariatric surgeons.

“There are too many doctors who treat patients for their gastric sleeve procedure and never discuss the follow-up, nor do they talk about the possibility of gaining weight back. I like to be upfront about it, and explain to my patients that it is possible to regain weight and then some after any bariatric surgery. The good news is that if we work closely with the patient and explain to them how the procedure helps them and what steps they can take to make the most out of it, we can prevent weight gain and set them up for a life full of healthy habits.”

Gaining weight after a Gastric Sleeve is possible…but preventable.

While patients can feel discouraged by this information, our expert surgeons assure us that gaining weight after gastric sleeve surgery is definitely not the norm. Particularly when you go to a surgeon who supports patients throughout their weight loss journey, even post-op.

“We get a lot of patients who haven’t thought about the possibility of gaining weight after having a Gastric Sleeve. We always outline strategies for the patient on how to prevent that from happening. We are their support team after all. So whether they need extra help by seeing a nutritionist or just need to understand the procedure better, we are there for them.”

The first thing patients need to learn is the logic behind it. The stomach is an elastic muscle, and while a surgeon will remove a significant portion of it, this doesn’t change. Your new smaller stomach can stretch after a Gastric Sleeve because it retains those expansion and contraction capabilities, which allow food to flow through when you eat. When people constantly overeat, they constantly overstretch their stomach. “Think of a rubber band, If you over-stretch it too often or for too long, it will not shrink back to its original size. Here at VIDA Bariatrics, we like to provide that visual example to help patients understand the importance of following a balanced diet, with adequate portions after their surgery.”

Simple steps to avoid re-gaining weight post Gastric Sleeve  

  • Remember that getting a Gastric Sleeve is only one part of your weight loss journey. Patients must make a lifelong commitment to changing their eating and exercise habits.
  • Tracking your food intake and discussing sustainable strategies with a nutritionist can set you up for success.
  • Set real goals and make yourself accountable. Take it step by step: one day at a time, one healthy meal at a time.
  • Gastric Sleeve means changing and adjusting: to a new body, with your loved ones and to your new dietary restrictions. Join a Gastric Sleeve support group to help you navigate these changes and keep the weight off.

Contact our VIDA Bariatrics department so we can help you finally beat obesity! Our staff will help you decide if a Gastric Sleeve is for you, craft a strategy that will ensure you lose the weight and keep it off and make sure you get all the support you need. Visit our website  or call us at
1 (619) 610-1667 to see how we can help you!

Mini Gastric Bypass vs Gastric Bypass: Which One Is Better?

by BariatricsWeight Loss Surgery

Bariatric surgery, such as mini-gastric bypass surgery or traditional gastric bypass surgery, offers patients the possibility to improve their lives in more ways than they can anticipate. At VIDA Bariatrics, we know that the journey to get to that *happy* place can be overwhelming at times.

Should you get gastric bypass surgery or mini-gastric bypass surgery?

What about a gastric sleeve?

In fact, what are the differences?

Today we are going to discuss a question we hear often: what is the best bariatric procedure out there?

The number of questions, doubts, and choices that patients face before getting invasive surgery for weight loss can be intimidating for bariatric patients. No patient has to go through their bariatric journey by themselves. Finding a surgeon who will support and guide you every step of the way will determine the procedure that will help you the most when it comes to losing excess weight. And it is not as simple as naming the single best weight loss procedure. Patients’ health, lifestyle, expectations, and safety come first.

Let’s start by talking about two weight loss procedures that up until recently, were the go-to choice for bariatric patients: mini-gastric bypass vs gastric bypass.

Gastric Bypass Surgery

Traditional gastric bypass surgery is a very popular choice in the United States as far as weight loss surgery goes. Gastric bypass surgery has two main steps. During a gastric bypass procedure, a bariatric surgeon will reduce the size of the functional part of your stomach. Your surgeon basically makes your stomach smaller, so, your food intake will be limited.

The gastric bypass portion of the operation happens when the surgeon connects your now smaller stomach to a section of your small intestine, bypassing a portion of your small intestine and the rest of your stomach. After the intestinal rerouting procedure, you can expect the gastric bypass to help you lose excess weight on three levels: a restrictive, a malabsorptive, and a metabolic component. In simpler terms: gastric bypass restricts the amount of food you can consume, limits the number of calories your body is able to absorb, and reduces the hunger-hormones production in your gut, making you feel satisfied faster.

Decades ago, a traditional gastric bypass was a risky procedure that involved painful healing and hours in the OR. Medicine has evolved, and getting a gastric bypass has become less invasive. Our bariatric surgeons, for their part, opt for the laparoscopic approach, the innovative technique that requires smaller incisions and is less invasive.

Mini-Gastric Bypass Surgery: the “Mini Bypass”

Less known than its “big brother,” the mini-gastric bypass results in a smaller stomach pouch. Similar to a traditional gastric bypass, the mini-gastric bypass weight loss procedure promotes weight loss at a restrictive, malabsorptive, and metabolic level.

As its name suggests, the laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass is safer and takes less operating time when compared to the traditional laparoscopic gastric bypass. Post-surgical weight loss results with mini bypass are similar to the traditional laparoscopic gastric bypass, but requiring as little as 4 small incisions, mini bypass recovery can be faster and safer. The risk of complications during weight loss surgery is also lower during a mini-gastric bypass compared to a traditional gastric bypass.

After reading this you’re probably wondering: why don’t more people choose mini-gastric bypass? Factors such as insurance restrictions and laparoscopic expertise and training have influenced mini bypass popularity. Finding a bariatric surgeon familiar with the mini-gastric bypass procedure can be a challenge for some patients. The good news is that the VIDA Bariatrics surgical team is highly experienced and trained in performing laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass surgeries, so, you can rest assured you’ll receive the best mini-bypass care possible.

Have You Considered a Gastric Sleeve Instead?

Perhaps neither a traditional gastric bypass nor a mini-gastric bypass surgery is for you! A third option that should definitely be on your radar is the gastric sleeve.

With bariatric surgery advances, more patients are exploring their options beyond gastric bypass and mini-gastric bypass. And while, for the right patient, a mini bypass or traditional gastric bypass surgery may be the best choice, physicians all over the world are encouraging their patients to consider the gastric sleeve as their weight-loss surgery. Why?

The gastric sleeve is far less invasive than mini-gastric bypass and traditional gastric bypass surgeries and has proven to be more effective. When you undergo this operation, the bariatric surgeon will remove a significant portion of your stomach, leaving a small stomach pouch. After surgery, your food intake is decreased and because the portion of the stomach that produces Ghrelin, the hormone that causes hunger, is also removed, you will naturally eat less. For patients with a very high BMI index who need to lose substantial excess weight, the gastric sleeve is often the safest option when compared with mini-gastric bypass and traditional bypass, and it’s one that will help them achieve the greatest excess weight loss.

How Do I Decide Between Mini-Gastric Bypass vs Traditional Gastric Bypass vs Gastric Sleeve?

Did we solve the question ‘Which is the best bariatric procedure for weight loss?’ Well, at VIDA we believe that what determines the best bariatric surgery is actually the surgeon. An honest, caring and experienced bariatric surgeon will guide you into choosing what is best for you, whether it’s a mini bypass, gastric bypass, or gastric sleeve. So, definitely start there: with a comprehensive evaluation with your bariatric surgeon. Our team of talented laparoscopic doctors will be more than honored in helping you with this first step in deciding between gastric bypass, mini-gastric bypass, and gastric sleeve.

“We pride ourselves in putting the patient first, never jeopardizing their well-being,” concluded the staff at VIDA Bariatrics. Furthermore, we only work with board-certified physicians, who are active members of bariatric and laparoscopic medical societies such as the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) and the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

Do you think you may be a candidate for bariatric surgery? Is this something you have explored with your physician? Then give us a call or visit our website. Feel free to contact us via phone, email, or Facebook Messenger. If you’re calling from the USA, you can call us at (619) 955-6845. Calling from Mexico? Dial (664) 608-6460 to reach us. International patient? Reach us at our toll-free number, 1-619-738-2144, we’ll assist you every step of the way and answer any questions you have about gastric bypass, mini-gastric bypass, and gastric sleeve.

With us, you will not only find the best bariatric surgeons, but also internationally accredited surgical facilities. We’re more than happy to help you in deciding the best weight-loss surgery for you! Don’t wait any longer to change your life.

More Info About Bariatric Surgery & Weight Loss

Relationships and Bariatric surgery: Dealing with the Changes.

by BariatricsWeight Loss Surgery

We’ve said it before and we will say it again: bariatric surgeries are life-changing. At VIDA Bariatrics we take pride in helping our patients beyond the procedure itself, hence we’d like to discuss a topic many of our patients have dealt with: family and relationships.

Going through a bariatric procedure, such as a Gastric Sleeve, a Lap Band or a Gastric Bypass will mean that your body will go through major changes. However, changes don’t stop there. Your life will go through major adjustments as well! And we want to help you feel better prepared because life changes are not only adjusting your diet with the help of a nutritionist, following an exercise plan, or getting a new wardrobe. Your family and relationships will evolve too. As your support team, we are ready to guide you and help you make the most out of your weight loss surgery.

Changes to relationships are a topic that not enough doctors discuss with their patients. If left unattended, those changes can be negative and overwhelming. But, if you work together with a team of experts like the one at VIDA, who are willing to help you manage those changes and address your concerns from the start, then be prepared to have your life impacted for the better. These are some simple tips we’d like you to consider:

Honest and constant communication.

A major challenge is feeling heard and understood. You are the one going through changes, your friends and family are not. It can be a time of adjustment in how you feel, your routine, your self-esteem, how others treat you, etc. The best way to handle this is constant, honest communication. Don’t be afraid to let your partner and close family members know how you feel. Our doctors know how important it is for patients to feel heard and understood. Effective communication is a vital part of this. Communicate what you like, dislike, new challenges that may have arisen from the surgery, etc.

Get your loved ones involved.

Another good strategy to deal with the procedure is to make your family an active part of the process. Try to include your partner and close family members in everything you feel comfortable sharing. Once you communicate you are getting bariatric surgery, they will likely be prepared for you to experience major weight loss. It is unlikely, however, that they will be expecting you to go through mental and emotional changes alongside the physical ones. Keep the communication channels open and let them know how you feel. Mental health is important too! Making them part of this evolution in your life will also make them know how important they are to you. Your loved ones will feel a part of your new, post-bariatric surgery life, instead of feeling left behind.

Your habits and routine will change, your partner’s might not.

And this is completely normal! After weight loss surgery, the team at VIDA encourages you to make use of all the resources we have available for you. From expert nutritionists to life coaches and plastic surgeons. So, change is in the horizon…for you. However, unless your family members are having bariatric surgery too,  it is not reasonable to expect them to change their lifestyle at the same speed as you. Our advice goes again to communication. Ask for support in these areas, but be understanding if maybe your partner is not keen on the idea of going on power walks every morning, or following your diet plan. Your new lifestyle involves an adaptation process. The best idea is to involve your family in this process and see what changes you can share with them and what changes will work only for you.

Ask for help if you need it.

From professional counseling to an honest conversation, it is okay to ask for your family’s support throughout this process. As you prepare to undergo surgery or get ready to go back home and live with your new body, it is normal to feel scared or unsure about what to expect. Apart from discussing it with your surgeon, share your feelings with your loved ones. As we like to say, “Help them help you!” Your loved ones won’t always be able to tell when you need help, so share this with them. There will be times in your weight loss journey when you will need help, be it physical or emotional. You are not weak for needing help, it is a normal part of the process.

Don’t be hard on yourself or your partner.

Always remember that you are doing this for all the benefits bariatric surgery can offer, to beat obesity and live a better, healthier life. The weight loss process may be challenging sometimes, for you and those around you. This is normal! Our doctors always remind us that no two patients are the same. Just like they take the time to discuss and plan the surgery specifically for you, remember that the before and after the process will also be specifically yours. Spend quality time with your family and share your fears and your gratitude too! Remember that your body will change and your life too. This sounds redundant, but sometimes, a simple reminder can help you and your family cope with the changes ahead. Get ready to live a healthier life!

At VIDA, we strive for patient satisfaction and well-being, in the long term! We’re in it with you! Our staff of bariatric surgeons, nutritionists, nurses, and life coaches are more than happy to help you make the most out of your bariatric procedure. Ready to finally beat obesity but have questions or concerns about how to include your family in this process? We are here for you!  You can visit our website or contact us via phone, email, or Facebook. Call us at (664) 608-6460 from Mexico, at (619) 955-6845 from USA or reach us at our toll-free number, 1-619-738-2144. We are also available via email at contact@vidawellnessandbeauty.com. Let us help you conquer obesity and improve your life for good!



Gastric Sleeve: Why are weight loss results different?

by BariatricsWeight Loss Surgery

If you are reading this, you are probably doing some research about one of the most effective and safest bariatric procedures available: the Gastric Sleeve. Also known as a vertical sleeve gastrectomy, this is an advanced procedure that helps eligible patients lose excess weight and lead a healthier lifestyle. From happy patients and their success stories, we can assure that it is a life-changing procedure! And here at VIDA Bariatrics, we want to help you understand the surgery’s results. So, we sat down to chat with our board-certified bariatric surgeons who told us, first-hand, why don’t all patients lose the same amount of weight? This is by far one of the greatest concerns we hear from patients!

“The surgeon removes a significant portion of your stomach, leaving a small “stomach pouch”. This will benefit you, the patient, in two main ways: a smaller stomach means you will need to ingest less food and you will produce less Ghrelin, the hormone that signals hunger. This, combined with the patient’s commitment to follow a healthy diet, leads to sustained weight loss over time. My colleagues and I support our patients from start to finish, and we always recommend working alongside a nutritionist, but of course, results are different for everyone! Every patient is different, every lifestyle has certain variations and organisms react differently!”

We assure you that no two cases are the same, however, if the patient is committed to making lifelong-healthy changes, they can definitely expect to lose and keep off a significant percent of the weight.

“It is not uncommon for VIDA patients to come into their initial consultation and ask us exactly how much weight will they lose from Gastric Sleeve surgery. The truth is- every case is different. We prioritize our patient’s health and safety, that always comes first! And we never just tell patients that they can expect to lose a set amount of weight. I understand that living with obesity is frustrating, and the Gastric Sleeve is a tool to change their lives. It is however unfair to promise patients that they will lose a defined number of pounds in a limited amount of time. As experienced and honest bariatric surgeons, we are able to tell patients an approximate amount of weight but never without discussing first all of their doubts and helping them set proper expectations.”

Apart from the surgery, there are a variety of factors that will help a patient lose weight: diet, exercise and an overall commitment of changing unhealthy lifestyle habits. He also noted that the size of the “sleeve” the surgeon makes affects how much weight loss patients can expect. “This is why we take great care in explaining the procedure specifically for the patient and how it will help them.”

The first 6 months after surgery are a period of constant dramatic changes. “This is when most of the weightloss happens. On average, a patient who is dedicated, follows a diet and exercise plan, can expect to lose between 60% and 80% of their total weight loss. And, if patients are committed and work with the support team we have available at VIDA, including a nutritionist, they will likely keep on losing weight for around 24 months. Again, this changes with every patient. What I really like to stress is that their dedication to losing and keeping their weight off is what ultimately makes a difference.

The stomach is an elastic muscle, so if the patient falls back into bad habits and excessive eating, the ‘sleeve’ will start stretching again and patients can regain weight. Long-term weight loss requires an effort. Patients need to know they are not alone, we hear them, we understand their struggles and we are here to help! It makes me feel happy and proud to see how many patients’ lives improve after the surgery!”

Although the amount of weight loss is a major concern, our surgeons all agree that the benefits of a Gastric Sleeve extend far beyond pure weight loss. As we said at the beginning, we know it is a life-changing procedure. Starting your weightloss journey is only the beginning. The way you see yourself and the way you feel about yourself will change with every pound lost! The benefits of finally beating obesity will be different for every patient but one thing is certain, although no two patient’s weight loss story is the same, getting a Gastric Sleeve will improve your life and the way you interact with your loved ones. Give yourself the opportunity to live a healthier life. At VIDA we not only have the best bariatric surgeons in the region; we are also proud to be the first surgical facility in Mexico to receive international accreditation by QUAD A and have an entire staff dedicated to help YOU.


So, if you want to determine whether or not you are a candidate for a Gastric Sleeve or have doubts regarding the procedure, don’t wait any longer and contact us. Our bilingual staff will be more than happy to answer any question or set up an appointment. Call us at 1 (664) 608-6460 from Mexico, at 1 (619) 955-6845  from USA, or reach us at our toll-free number 1 (619)738-2144.
You can also email us at contact@vidawellnessandbeauty.com.

7 DELIGHTFULL JUICES THAT WILL MAKE YOU BURN FAT

by BeautyHealth & WellnessWeight Loss Surgery

 Reaching your ideal weight it’s something that besides determination requires a plan that helps you get quicker results. Juicing, a detox and fat burning method, is more popular than ever because besides being effective is very delicious. It’s recommended to drink the juices while fasting, although a diet based on only juices is not recommendable for a long lasting weight loss. But, what really happens to our body when we ingest these fruit and vegetables cocktails? Why arethey such good allies to help us get rid of those extra pounds? Keep Reading to find out!

 Helping your digestion

Digesting, burning fat, talking, walking, chewing, sleeping, standing… uf! Everything requires an investment of energy from our bodies! Our liver and kidneys are on a daily marathon to clean our system of toxins, fats, chemicals additives and preservatives. This results in the liver and the rest of the organs not working in the optimal manner for fat burning, causing an accumulation of fat in the abdomen, legs, back arms, etc.

By juicing we use less energy in digesting so what we are really doing is giving a break to our digestive system and nourishing it with an infusion of enzymes that normally don’t get in regular cooked foods.

Start your plan and help your organism reduce sizes, besides it’s fair to give your body a rest and lose weight…don’t you think? In case this wasn’t enough. You will look better in selfies!! All these fresh juices will nourish your skin, making you look younger and more radiant. It will even show in your nails and hair!

And as a plus, your body will have more energy to fight sickness; this is because the digestive system doesn’t do a big effort to absorb all the vitamins and minerals of fruits and vegetables taken in a juice form which allows them to go faster into the blood stream.

You may ask yourself for how long should I do juicing? This depends of your goals. There are programs of 3 to 5 days, but you should check your daily activities and overall health condition. We suggest that you consult your plans with your physician and your head nutritionist but for the time being we will present some delicious and healthy recipes that you can include in your diet and start burning fat.

  1. FAT DISOLVER

Fruits and vegetables to help burn fat and awaken your metabolic system!

  • 1 peeled grapefruit
  • 2 peeled oranges
  • 1 handful of mint
  • 1 Roman lettuce

Put everything in your blender, juicer or your favorite machine and enjoy it while fasting.

  1. SUPER GREEN

Taking this parsley delight helps you with digestion and weight loss; it also helps to get tide of excess water in the body that makes us look heavier. Green apples are recommended, but you can use your favorites

Ingredients

  • 2 Apple’s
  • 4 celery sticks
  • 1 cucumber
  • 24 grs of ginger
  • 6 kale leaves
  • ½ lemon
  • Parsley

 

  1. SPINACH AND APPLE

Ingredients

  • 2 medium size apples in cubes
  • 2 cups of sliced spinachs
  • Lemon juice
  • ½ cup of red lettuce or carrot leaves
  • ¼ cup pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of kosher salt (pure salt)

4.SPICY FAT BURNER

  • 1 cup of pineapple
  • 5 leaves of kale
  • 1 cucumber
  • ½ jalapeno

Pineapple will refresh and inject vitamins and minerals such as thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin N-6, panthenoic acid, magnesium, manganese, potassium and more. In addition, abundant bromelain in pineapple will help reduce inflammation and convert food into energy.

  1. BURNER AND ENERGIZER

½ pineapple

2 apples

½ box of alfalfa

½ handful of watercress

½ handful of kale

½ handful of broccoli

1 ounce of wheat grass (or a tablespoon powdered)

2 ice cubes

Mix all the ingredients in your juice machine and serve the ice in a glass.

  1. LIGHT MOON

Ingredients easy to get in your nearest store, delicious for bedtime

1 lemon

  • 1 cucumber
  • 1 teaspoon of crushed ginger
  • 1 tablespoon of aloe vera juice
  • 1 handfull of cilantro or parsley
  • ½ glass of water

Mix the ingredients and enjoy the juice before going to bed.

  1. PINK DELIGHT

Excellent for burning fat. Enjoy it before eating for a greater sense of satiety.

  • 1 pink grapefruit
  • 1 lime
  • 1 cup of cranberries
  • 2 chunks of ginger
  • 1 half cucumber (optional for diluting and add texture)

This drink has a delicious flavor with a sour taste; ginger is optional to counteract the acid of grapefruit.

Recommendations of our nutritionist:

– As much as possible, choose fresh and organic fruits and vegetables.

– Avoid adding sugar, artificial juices and concentrates.

– Consult your nutritionist or doctor in case that you take any medication to prevent interactions (for example don’t have grapefruit if you take antibiotics).

– Space your coffee intake with the juices. Coffee, green tea and black tea inhibit the absorption of many nutrients and enzymes.

– Take the juices fresh, preferably in the first 10 minutes after being prepared.

We hope these recipes will be useful and you begin to enjoy them today. If you want additional information on procedures for weight loss visit us www.vidabariatrics.com where you can find information on nutrition services, bariatric surgery, and so on.

Is Pregnancy Safe for a Bariatric Surgery Patient?

by BariatricsWeight Loss Surgery

Malnourishment, high-risk pregnancy and other fears can follow when we think about undergoing bariatric surgery and becoming pregnant. We invite you to clear up all the doubts you might have by reading this article.

What should I know about pregnancy after bariatric surgery?  Will my baby be able to obtain sufficient nutrients?

 We have good news for you! Pregnancy after any type of bariatric surgery can be safe and healthy as long as you have adequate management and supervision by you and your doctor. In fact, research suggests that pregnancy after a weight loss surgery can be safer for both, the mother and the baby, in comparison with a high-risk pregnancy caused by obesity problems.

Although more research is needed, some studies suggest that bariatric surgery can protect obese women and their babies from some issues during pregnancy such as first-stage diabetes, preeclampsia, high blood pressure, and signs of damage in some vital organs like kidneys, after 20 weeks into the pregnancy.

If you underwent bariatric surgery or are thinking about it and want to become pregnant, you should consult your doctor for planning. You can also consult a certified nutritionist to help you with nutrition and weight control during your pregnancy. And more importantly, you should let your OBGYN know that you have a weight loss surgery so he or she can supervise you in an adequate manner.

How long should I wait after my Bariatric Surgery?

Experts recommend to post-pone a pregnancy until your weight stabilizes after bariatric surgery. Normally the recommendation is to wait from 12 to 18 months after your surgery.

This is due to the fact that rapid weight loss may deprive a growing baby of important nutrients, with a risk of having an underweight newborn. To monitor your baby’s growth, your doctor may recommend a fetus ultrasound during the first trimester into the pregnancy.

Vitamins, vitamins, and more vitamins!

Depending on the type of bariatric surgery that you had chosen and your specific nutrition needs it is probable that your doctor recommends certain supplements like, folic acid, vitamin B12, iron, and calcium, besides your daily doses of prenatal vitamins before and after the pregnancy.

Would you like to lose weight or learn more about bariatric surgery? Reach out to VIDA Bariatrics

In VIDA Bariatrics in Tijuana, we have certified bariatric surgeons, nutritionists and internal medicine doctors so you can answer all of your doubts and questions, as well as receive appropriate advice about which type of bariatric surgery is more convenient according with your general health, lifestyle and expectations. And as if this wasn’t enough, we have certified plastic surgeons that will help you sculpt what you wish to improve once you have your beautiful baby. So, there you have it! There is no reason to worry about the goals and dreams you have in mind!

For more information contact us at 1-619-610-1667 toll free from the US, or from Mexico you can contact us at (664) 608-64-60. You can also write to: contact@vidawellnessandbeauty.com or have a virtual consultation at the following link: Virtual Consultation 

For more information about the profile of our bariatric surgeons in Tijuana, click the following link: Medical Team VIDA Bariatrics

Blog Post: Breastfeeding Post Weight Loss Surgery 101

How healthy is that food? Figuring out food labels.

by UncategorizedWeight Loss Surgery

The very first step to proper nutrition is making sure you know exactly what you are putting into your body. Choosing the best food for your health can be difficult when someone else is preparing it, but we have the right to know what we are consuming. This is why we have nutrition facts labels, so everyone can make informed decisions about what they are putting into their systems.

Gabriela Vázquez, licensed nutriologist at VIDA Wellness and Beauty.

Listed below is a breakdown of the key components to a nutrition label, and what they tell you about the nutritional value of the item.

Serving Size: This provides you with a quantity of how much equals one serving, and how many servings are in a package. All the information on the label is based on one serving, so if you eat three servings, you must multiply all those number values by three to find out how much you are actually consuming.

Calories: This gives a measure of how much energy you get from a serving of that food. Eating foods that are packed with nutrients without being too high in calories means it is a nutrient-dense food—and a good choice. You want to get the most nutritional bang for your caloric buck.

We eat food to absorb the nutrients it provides, which make it possible for our bodies to function. Not all nutrients are created equal, however. These are the nutrients you will find listed on a nutrition facts label, in order of appearance:

Fat: Fat should not necessarily be avoided, but it is important to keep it in check. Fat provides essential fatty acids, which are not made by the body and help to control inflammation, blood clotting and brain development. Fat serves as the storage unit for extra calories. There are three types of fat. Unsaturated fat is good for the heart and usually can be found in liquid form at room temperature, like olive oil. The other types are saturated fat and trans fat, which should be monitored more closely.

Saturated Fat is usually found in meat and dairy products. While you are encouraged to consume some saturated fats, high levels have been known to cause heart disease.

Easy: Just avoid trans fats!

Trans Fat is the worst offender and should be avoided at all costs. Trans fats are man-made and have been linked to diabetes, heart disease, cardiovascular diseases and other still emerging health risks. There is no benefit to consuming trans-fat. If you see “partially hydrogenated oil” on an ingredients list, the food contains trans-fat—even if the trans-fat % DV (percent of your daily value—see below) says zero.

Cholesterol: Cholesterol is important in controlling your hormones, but too much cholesterol in the blood can damage arteries and cause cardiovascular disease.

Sodium: Sodium regulates blood pressure and blood volume in the body. Healthy adults should limit sodium intake to 2,300 mg per day while those with high blood pressure should keep it to no more than 1,500 mg per day.

Total Carbohydrates: Carbs get a bad rap, but not all are bad for you. Carbs are your body’s No. 1 source of energy! There are two types of carbs: processed and whole-grain. Whole grains contain more fiber and nutrients and will regulate your blood sugar, keeping your energy and appetite levels stable, making them a healthier choice. Processed carbs are burned up quickly, spike your blood sugar and leave you hungry soon after, making them a carb to avoid as much as possible.

While the Total Carbohydrates won’t tell you which can be found in your food, it will tell you how many grams there are per serving. To find out if your food contains whole grains, check the ingredient list. If the first word in the list—the very first word—is whole, you are consuming whole grains. If the first ingredient says enriched or bleached, it is a processed carb, will leave you hungry sooner and offers little nutrition.

Dietary Fiber: Fiber is indigestible, but helps the digestive process run smoothly. Food high in fiber, due to the inability to be digested, also helps you stay fuller, longer.

Sugar: There are two types of sugars: natural sugars, which occur naturally in foods like fruit and dairy, and added sugars, ones that are added to foods to change the taste. Over consumption of sugar is linked to an increased risk for obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia (high cholesterol, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol and/or high LDL cholesterol). It is recommended that women limit added sugar intake to 24 grams or 6 teaspoons and men 36 grams or 9 teaspoons.

Protein: Protein helps to facilitate muscle repair and growth. It is recommended that adults consume .8 grams of protein for every pound of body weight.

Vitamin A, C, Calcium and Iron: Simply put, these are vitamins and minerals nutrients your body needs to run properly. Vitamins and minerals are found in the foods we eat, and some foods are more dense with vitamins and minerals than others.

Regarding ingredients, the labels will give you a clue if it’s a very elaborate food or what is so natural or processed. We must keep in mind the amount of preservatives, colorings, and flavorings, which are used in its preparation. Its not recommended that highly processed food makes part of your daily diet, because eventually will toll on you.

Good nutrition is key throughout your life!

There’s a huge difference between eating well and eating poorly. Good nutrition can help you feel in better shape and stay strong, in addition to helping reduce the risk of some common diseases such as certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, osteoporosis, among others. If you suffer from certain health problems, good nutrition can help to control symptoms and live better.

If you want to learn more or would like the schedule a consultation with our certified nutriologist at VIDA Wellness and Beauty, you can call us toll free 1-619-610-1667 from US or dial (664) 608-6460 if you are in México. Remember that we are only a 10 minutes drive from the border, and you can complement your visit with other consultation services like dermatology, internal medicine, and more, half the cost than in United States.

BEATING OBESITY: THE GASTRIC SLEEVE

by BariatricsWeight lossWeight Loss Surgery

Want to know if a gastric sleeve is right for you?

 Answer to those phrases that you identify with:

  • I’ve tried to lose weight with diets and exercise without getting results.
  • My overweight is causing me health problems and diseases.
  • When I look into the mirror, I would love to look different.

If you answered yes to more than one of the above sentences, and your BMI (Body Mass Index) is more than 30, we have an excellent option for you: Gastric sleeve surgery.

Severe to moderate obesity has become an epidemic disease in the last decade. Contemporary lifestyles, as well as hormonal, thyroid, and endocrine problems, make it difficult for many people to reach a healthy weight, despite multiple efforts like working out, diets, and medication, it just seems something impossible to achieve.

In the United States, two-thirds of women are overweight and have obesity problems. Even worse, there are 67.6 million obese people and 65 million overweight individuals, according to a study by the Washington Medical University of Saint Louis, Missouri, in 2012. This means that 40% of the US population is facing overweight problems and health disorders associated to obesity. If you are part of the statistics, we want to help you!

 What is the Gastric Sleeve?

 Gastric sleeve is a safe and new procedure and a very effective option to the treatment of obesity, changing the life of people in the long term since it promotes a new lifestyle, making it difficult to recover the lost weight.

The gastric sleeve has a few advantages over the gastric band since there is no foreign body in the stomach. This surgery also known as vertical gastric sleeve consists of the removal of 85% of the stomach from the body, this reduction is what forces the patient to eat only 10% to 15% less than before, causing a dramatic weight loss in the first six months after the surgery. Of course, the patient needs to make some changes in his nutritional habits, eating more balanced in order to keep good health. In a few words, the person learns to eat again.

Another of the advantages is the minimal invasion of the body, since it is a procedure done by laparoscopy, via incisions ½ inch or less. This has added safety to the operation as well as patient acceptance.

Are you a candidate for the gastric sleeve?

If you have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of more than 35 it means you are a candidate for this type of surgery, also if you have been diagnosed with serious conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure related to overweight.

How much weight am I going to lose?

Most of the weight is lost in the first six months after the surgery.  After this period the patient must continue with a balanced diet and a training plan in order to keep a healthy lifestyle.*

Health benefits

When you compare the statistics against traditional diet and workout programs or even specialist-supervised programs, you’ll find out that the surgery is more effective with long-term weight maintenance and improvement of health. The patients often live a long, productive, and healthier life, with fewer visits to the health care system.

Also, the savings in health care expenses will pay for the surgery in 2 or 4 years, since in 75% of the cases patients will experience the reduction or total disappearance of chronic disorders like heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and other degenerative illnesses.

Change your life today in the hands of top-qualified surgeons and world-class care at affordable prices.

At VIDA Bariatrics you would find an experienced team of bariatric surgeons, certified and qualified with more than 5,000 successful surgeries. If you are seeking a lifelong impact, at VIDA Bariatrics you have the opportunity to do it, paying 50% less than in the United States for a bariatric procedure like the gastric sleeve.

If you want more information or want to schedule a virtual consultation, feel free to call us at 1 (619) 610-1667 from the US, or access to a
Virtual Consultation from the safety of your own home.

*Bariatric surgery results may vary in every person. A nutritional program follows bariatric surgery in order to achieve the best results.

THE 3 TOP REASONS PEOPLE REGAIN WEIGHT AFTER WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY

by BariatricsWeight Loss Surgery

After decades of a toxic relationship with food, Sara found herself in a hospital bed at 50, thinking she was going to die. Today, Sara climbs mountains instead of holding on to railings to pull herself up the stairs. She works as a life coach, helping people release the fears and long held beliefs/habits that have stopped them from living a full, healthier life.

At VIDA Bariatrics we care about every part of your journey.

We’re very happy to announce Sara as a VIDA Bariatrics collaborator.

Making the decision to have weight loss surgery is a very big deal. It seems obvious to say that when someone agrees to weight-loss surgery they’re desperate for help to change the way they’re living, or not fully living their lives. Everyone goes into the procedure ready and willing to surgically alter their anatomy hoping for a better future. So why is it that so many will fall short of losing the optimal amount of weight for their health and will actually regain within 3 years much if not all of the weight they lost? Some studies say 1/3 of patients will regain most of their weight post-surgery. I think the number is actually higher because many people who regain simply fall out of contact with their bariatric surgeon and support staff because they feel ashamed, so the statistics do not include these people. So, why do most people regain the weight? What can you do to help insure that you will be one of the successful long-term losers of your excess weight? By examining why people fail you can create a plan for how you will succeed.

The government agency, National Institutes for Health (NIH) defines weight-loss surgery as “merely a tool that helps people get a new start toward maintaining long-term good health. The surgery alone will not help someone lose weight and keep it off.

Together with a reduced-calorie and low-fat diet and daily exercise, surgery will help an individual lose weight and maintain the weight loss.” Please read that a few times. That is how important this quote is! The surgery alone will not help someone lose weight and keep it off. We as weight-loss surgery patients have a history of seeking comfort, happiness and pleasure through food. We wouldn’t be here if that weren’t true. Me included. The process of surgically altering our anatomies does nothing to remove from us the tendency to seek comfort in familiar ways but assures there will be physical suffering if we do. Post-surgery we will still have the same brain that is used to comforting us with food, and we will still have the fingers and the arms that are used to lifting food to the same mouth to find comfort and pleasure. It is critically important that the WLS patient seek out new ways to soothe, comfort, and find pleasure in their world other than by eating.

ONE main reason patients regain their weight is they search for ways to get around the surgery, still thinking of food as primarily a source of pleasure, not a source of fuel that can be pleasurable. This is often done relying on liquid calories, which may pass more easily, like high calorie coffee or juice bar drinks or alcohol. This is also done post-operatively by trying to maintain the presence of “trigger foods” in their lives. “Trigger foods” are often foods from the patient’s past that helped cause obesity, do not satisfy hunger but instead create a craving. Many are high-calorie and highly processed, not nutritious. Trigger foods can include chocolate, chips, crackers, bread, cookies, ice cream, pudding, lattes, frapuccinos and alcoholic beverages. Really, any food can be a “trigger food” if there is so much pleasure in the “mouth-feel” or taste that repeating the pleasurable experience takes on more importance than actually feeding hunger. Very successful patients cultivate a mostly trigger-free postsurgical life. Bariatric surgeons know the most common reason for regain. The most common postsurgical complication is “noncompliance.” Non-compliance is a fancy word that means the patient is not eating and exercising the way he/she agreed to before surgery. These people “talk the talk.” The successful patient “walks the walk” after surgery and changes how they eat and move.

A SECOND reason people often regain beginning in the second or third year post-op is that the “honeymoon” is over. The “honeymoon” generally encompasses the first 12 to 18 months postsurgery. During this time many patients will say, “I could eat all the chocolate and ice cream I wanted and still lose weight. I didn’t have to try and the weight just came off.” This is often true because the body has been through such a shock after surgery that it takes months for the body to reset itself and learn to function with its’ new physiology. Patients who regain their weight often believe that this “honeymoon period” is the new way that it will always be and don’t adopt healthy eating patterns. So when their “honeymoon period” ends as it will they believe that the surgery has somehow failed them. In reality they have failed their surgery! During the first 12-18 months post-op it is essential to develop healthy patterns around food and exercise. This is the time when it is actually easiest to do and to not do so wastes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to begin a great new life with positive momentum.

A THIRD reason many patients regain much of their lost weight is a lack of support. Humans are social animals and we desire and need the support of each other throughout our lives. For thousands, if not tens of thousands, of years people coming together as a family or a community over food has been a way we connect with each other. Post-surgery, when the patient isn’t able to eat what others are eating or in the quantities others are eating, or others are eating their ‘trigger foods”, life can feel very stressful and lonely. This can be compounded by being around unsupportive people or people who want to be supportive but don’t know how. Patients fail by not surrounding themselves with supportive people in a safe environment where they also must be accountable for their actions and behavior with food and their bodies. It is key to have a community of professionals and non-professionals who understand the challenges and hardships faced by those carving a new life with a new anatomical structure. There are online and in-person support groups. Even patients who’ve gone abroad for weight loss surgery can often use the support services available with their local medical group’s Bariatric department. Creating relationships that support and assist you in becoming a healthier person and that hold you accountable for making healthy choices are key.

These are my top three. What would you add to this list? What plan will you create to deal with the items you add to this list? Who will support you on this journey of your life…..for your life?

Call us toll free!

1 (619) 610-1667