Bariatric surgery can sure feel like a full-time job.
And we can’t forget about the importance of the bariatric nutritional guidelines that having bariatric surgery requires.
Hydration is a crucial aspect of these guidelines.
Although you may be very well aware of how much water you should drink after bariatric surgery, it can still be a tough job to actually meet those hydration goals.
Why is it so hard to meet hydration goals after bariatric surgery?
Without hydration (in any type of form) there would be no life. Ideally, our body should consist of roughly 50% water.
Water is needed for our metabolism, to produce enzymes, hormones and other important elements. And to make sure that all of our cells, organs and body tissues are functioning accordingly.
We need water to breathe, to get rid of waste and for transportation of all sorts of particles in our blood. We simply can’t live without water.
So it makes sense that hydration is of extreme importance after bariatric surgery.
But why is it so darn challenging to meet those hydration goals?
First, having a smaller pouch causes restriction – you simply can’t have large quantities of foods (and drinks) in one go. This makes it harder to drink water too!
Second, bariatric surgery can change your taste buds which in turn may lead you to dislike how water tastes.
And third, not being able to drink together with your meals makes it extra challenging to meet your hydration goals. You really have to work with a plan to get those fluids in!
Let’s dive into 7 tips to help you stay hydrated after bariatric surgery.
#1 Keep your glass or water bottle in plain sight
It’s more likely to stay hydrated if you can actually see your drink.
When you keep your cup or water bottle close by, you constantly trigger yourself to take a sip. If you’re at home, leave your bottle on the kitchen table. If you’re working at the office, keep your bottle next to your computer (but do close that lid). The point is, proximity matters. If you have your water close to you, it’s more likely that you will actually take those sips.
If you have a job where you’re not able to keep your bottle with you, make sure to rehydrate every chance you get. For instance, on your break and in between work hours.
#2 Take small sips in between your meals
Keeping your solid foods and liquids separate is one of the ‘golden rules’ after bariatric surgery.
Why?
Because it prevents overeating and dumping syndrome. So that’s another reason to keep sipping in between your meals (and snacks).
Take small sips whenever possible and keep it up all day long. You’ve got this!
#3 Rehydrate every time you used the restroom
Took a pee? Take a sip! And after you peed, make sure to check the color and smell of your urine too.
Is your urine dark?
Does your urine have a strong smell?
Well, this is a sign that you need to drink more water. Other signs to pay attention to are: dizziness, foggy brain, dry mouth and throat, headaches, muscle cramps and fatigue.
#4 Track your water! And log, log, log…
If you’re busy, not thirsty or simply forgetful, it’s easier to stray away from your hydration goals. Tracking your hydration goals can be incredibly helpful to get those ounces (or liters) in. Use a simple hydration tracker that’s customized for your journey so that you can keep a close eye on one of the most important guidelines after bariatric surgery.
#5 Try alternatives for water like herbal teas, flavoured water and protein beverages
Herbal teas can be a great alternative in you dislike the taste of water. Or if you fancy a warm beverage instead. Examples of herbal teas are mint tea and ginger tea. But the possibilities are endless. Just make sure that you follow your surgeons’ guidelines first and foremost.
Adding natural flavours like (frozen) fruit or zero-calorie flavor packets can help you meet your hydration goals too. Plus, they add a bit of fun and variety to your liquids.
And have you ever thought about including more high-protein drinks in your diet? You know, buttermilk, soy milk or (skim) milk for instance. That way you get both your protein and your liquids in at the same time. A real win-win, right?
#6 Hot drink, cold drink, warm drink, luke-warm drink
Staying hydrated after bariatric surgery may not be as simple as Dr Seus’ world famous rhymes. But there’s one hack that’s worth trying:
Serving your water at different temperatures can really make that difference.
You may find yourself tolerating warm foods and drinks better than cold ones. Or the other way around.
Try adding ice cube to your water and see if that helps. Maybe some warm tea will do the trick. Or perhaps serving your drink at room temperature is just what your stomach needs.
Keep in mind that ice-cold beverages are usually not recommended right after surgery when you’re still healing.
#7 Eat more fruits and vegetables that contain more water naturally
When you add more food that contain a high percentage of water in your diet, it helps. Although officially these foods do not add up to your total hydration goals, it sure helps to quench the thirst. Here are a few examples of foods that have high water-levels:
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Cucumber
- Zucchini
- Lettuce
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Tomatoes
- Broccoli
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You see, our ultimate goal is to help you find, and most of all keep, your focus while you’re navigating your post-op life.
Bariatric surgery isn’t the easy way out. And creating new habits doesn’t happen overnight.
But it doesn’t have to be complicated!
You got this!
Resources:
- Vinolas et al. (2019). Oral hydration, food intake, and nutritional status before and after bariatric surgery. Obesity Surgery: 2896-2903.
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