So, You've Had Weight Loss Surgery: The Physical Aspect

Congratulations. You've gone from being morbidly obese to having weight loss surgery and starting a new life. Now you need to recover and adjust. Here's some tips to get you started.

Realize What Has Happened
First of all, you must acknowledge that you have had a major procedure inflicted upon your body. No matter which weight loss surgery you chose to have, your stomach capacity is severely limited and your digestive tract may be altered. Overall, your anatomy is different after weight loss surgery. In the hospital, you'll receive critical care and constant monitoring after your weight loss surgery. Once you are considered stable, you'll be sent home to recover.

Returning Home
Initially, you shouldn't be alone, at least through the first night or two after returning home from weight loss surgery. After that, having someone check in on you several times a day will be adequate. If nothing sits well on your tummy, change food choices often and throw away or give away what you cannot tolerate. This is not at all wasteful - it is the normal process of adjusting to weight loss surgery. You cannot predict your likes and desires at this point, so just relax and do whatever works. This is only the beginning stage of recovering from weight loss surgery and it will get better with time.

Stay Hydrated
Start with liquids. It is vitally important to stay hydrated after weight loss surgery to alleviate nausea and keep your organs functioning. It is strange to have no hunger or desire to eat and to feel full after two bites, but liquids will sustain you. Sip fluids constantly whenever you are awake. Drink ginger tea if you feel nauseous. A simple recipe is to slice a piece of fresh ginger, about the size of a nickel, and place it in a coffee mug. Pour boiling water over it and steep for a few minutes. Add honey if desired and drink.