The Importance of Bariatric Support Groups
Adopting a healthier lifestyle to maintain your results after weight loss surgery is a lifelong commitment. However, it can be difficult to stay motivated on your own.*
You do not have to do it alone. The team at Tijuana Bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico, can answer your questions and provide tips for finding the right group or forum for your needs.
A support group can be a defining factor in your success*...
The Benefits of Joining a Support Group
Get professional answers about changes in your body, behavior, and diet.
Dieting after weight loss surgery is not easy. A group allows you to vent and support others grappling with the same frustrations.
Patience and assurance from your group can be an immense help through times when you feel discouraged.
Patients Value Relating to Others
Life is busy and people get overwhelmed with work, kids and other commitments. Sometimes your surgery and your program take a backseat. When your surgery takes a backseat, your program can slip. Coming to support group can give you a shot in the arm and you will become refocused. Sarah Muntel, Registered Dietician
Why Should I Join a Support Group?
Many patients who work with our Tijuana, Mexico, bariatric surgery office question why they should join a support group when they can get emotional and mental support from their family and friends. Although loved ones are an integral part of your recovery and maintaining your results, individuals who have not undergone bariatric surgery themselves will be unable to truly understand what you are facing. Studies suggest that patients who attend support group meetings regularly maintain their weight-loss goals over the long-term, and lose more weight than those who do not.
A Safe, Positive Space
The best guidance often comes from someone who has personally experienced the challenges of bariatric surgery. Dedicated support groups are made up of patients just like you. When you find the right fit, this positive space can allow you to share your experiences and hear stories that inspire and motivate you to achieve your treatment goals.
Studies suggest that patients who attend support groups regularly tend to lose more weight and maintain their results more over time.
In many cases, medical professionals moderate group discussions, creating an educational and safe space to facilitate the exchange of ideas and tips. A support group can help answer queries on:
- Diet restrictions and healthy eating
- Fears regarding bariatric surgery and its possible side effects
- Preparing for surgery
- Becoming comfortable with your new body and body image issues
- Weight loss or gaining weight back
There are also different avenues for seeking the support you need. Apart from in-person meetups, there are also online forums where you can get the help, information, and encouragement you need.
Sticking with Lifestyle Changes
Apart from an outside support group, the encouragement of family and close friends is paramount. To experience the best results of bariatric surgery and lose optimal weight, patients need to make substantial changes to their lifestyle.
Your lifestyle habits prior to surgery, whether they included eating out frequently, consuming junk food, or drinking at bars, may not be compatible with your current weight loss goals. You should educate your loved ones and replace any bad habits with new, healthier activities. Whether you begin cooking more meals at home with your family or hit the gym with a friend, life after bariatric surgery can be even more fulfilling with the love and support of those closest to you.
