If your quality of life has been negatively affected by your weight, bariatric weight loss surgery can be a life-changing and life-extending opportunity.

Bariatric surgeon Ayotunde Adeyeri, M.D. explains five key ways your life and health can improve after weight loss surgery:

1. Food will no longer run your life

“For people battling obesity, food is often the center of your universe. But after bariatric surgery, you’ll see that food isn’t your ‘best friend’ after all; it’s now simply the fuel for your body and mind,” says Dr. Adeyeri.

2. Eating better food will energize your mind and body 

Preparation is the number one key to weight loss success. Before surgery, you’ll work with a bariatric nutritionist to start the process of changing how and what you eat. 

“You will learn to set up a balanced diet for yourself — ditching processed foods that are high in sugar and empty carbs, and fill your diet with food that will keep you feeling full and energized,” adds Dr. Adeyeri. 

3. Exercise will get easier

As your weight decreases, your energy level will increase. The chronic joint pain in your hips and knees from carrying too much weight may significantly lessen. Your body will send signals that it wants to get moving. Exercise will also help burn more calories and improve your sleep quality. 

“If you did not exercise before weight loss surgery, start by walking manageable distances and increase your daily step count weekly. Play badminton with your friends in the backyard or join a softball league-– any way to get moving. You can do this,” Dr. Adeyeri says.

4. You will build new social connections 

Your bariatric program should offer support group meetings where you can meet people in your community at various stages of weight loss. Weight loss will also add to your confidence and you’ll naturally become more social.

“I encourage you to engage with this like-minded community so that you can give and receive guidance and support. There is strength in numbers!” emphasizes Dr. Adeyeri.

5. Your mind will become your most valuable weight loss asset

The struggle against obesity is not strictly physical; it’s also mental and emotional. 

“Try experiences that focus on mindfulness—meditation, yoga and other practices that focus on being present in the moment, reducing stress and setting goal intentions,” Dr. Adeyeri says.

Bariatric surgery can help to reclaim your body, significantly improve health, reduce disease risk and open the door to a higher quality of life.

It’s an opportunity to explore new activities and be more social —try a new type of exercise with a friend, accept more invitations to parties and celebrations, try preparing healthier recipes, or simply play catch with your kids. 

“The battle against obesity starts and ends with the mind; when you see the physical changes happening, your mental outlook will improve as well. Seize that momentum and go after your goals with everything you’ve got,” says Dr. Adeyeri.

Next Steps and Resources:

• Meet our source: Ayotunde Adeyeri, M.D.
• To make an appointment with Dr. Adeyeri, or a bariatric surgeon near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.