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Nutrition
Obesity continues to be a major challenge, nationally and globally. However, the prevalence of obesity in the United States is higher than in any other country1 Obesity brings with it several risk factors, including type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obstructive sleep apnea, PCOS, chronic kidney disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and many more. That said, co-morbid conditions and even the rate of mortality can be decreased with minimal to moderate weight loss. On an even brighter note, with most co-morbid conditions, the greater the weight loss, the greater the improvement! Let’s take a moment to look at a few co-morbid conditions and show that even a little bit of weight loss can make improvements. When it comes to everyone’s weight loss journey, seeing and celebrating the non-scale victories are just as important. Weight Loss Effects on Type II Diabetes Losing weight can help prevent and improve type II diabetes. Even a modest, 6.7% weight reduction has... more »
Nutrition
Chances are you already know bariatric patients need higher doses of certain vitamins after surgery. Changes to the digestive system after surgery that limit calories also limit vitamins and minerals from being absorbed. What are these changes, and how common is this issue? For vitamin B-12 specifically, there are a couple factors that contribute to the importance of getting enough from your post-op vitamin regimen. What is Vitamin-B-12 and Its Role B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin naturally found in most animal products, such as meat, dairy, and eggs. It's also found in fortified foods like bread and cereal. B-12 is required for forming red blood cells, neurological health, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can cause: Megaloblastic anemia Fatigue Neurological issues Numbness Tingling of hands and feet Impaired balance Memory loss Despite most adults getting plenty of B-12 from their diet, B-12 deficiencies affect about 1.5% - 15% of the general population, in particular older adults and those... more »
Nutrition
You just had bariatric surgery and are home from the hospital—now what? Before surgery and as you were getting discharged, you were given detailed instructions on what to do for your diet until you are seen in your bariatric surgeon's office again. However, many patients find themselves overwhelmed with information and still unsure where to start. Now is the time that all the practiced behaviors of eating slow, taking small sips, staying hydrated, and focusing on protein become real. Hydration One of the most important things after any surgery is hydration. Dehydration can happen very easily after surgery for several reasons. One-third of all post-op emergency room visits are related to dehydration1. The ASMBS recommends that patients consume enough fluids throughout the day to maintain adequate hydration (at least 1.5L per day2). Throughout your entire post-op experience, make sure you are taking small sips of fluids all day. You can even play around with the temperature of your... more »
Nutrition
Before and after bariatric surgery, there are possible complications you should be aware of—one of which is dumping syndrome. Symptoms of Dumping Syndrome Dumping syndrome can range in symptoms and is most common in patients with gastric bypass. It has been found to occur in 10-75% of gastric bypass patients, as well as in 33% of gastric sleeve patients2. The cause of dumping syndrome tends to be a self-inflicted complication. When high-sugar foods are consumed, they tend to bypass the stomach undigested, which causes a reaction in your small intestines, drawing in water. This fluid shift is what is known to cause the first stage of dumping, also known as early dumping1. Early dumping syndrome typically occurs within the first hour after food consumption. Symptoms of this stage can range from diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramping, and high heart rate2. It is important to note you may not experience all these symptoms. Just having one of them is typically uncomfortable enough to... more »
Nutrition
Fiber plays a vital role in metabolism. It helps regulate blood glucose levels, may help lower risk of heart disease, aids in weight management, can suppress hunger, and promotes bowel regularity. The American Heart Association recommends daily fiber intake of 25-30 grams each day. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines recommend 14 grams of fiber per every 1,000 calories consumed. There are two main types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Types of Fiber Soluble fiber increases the presence of water in bowels and turns to gel during digestion to slow the digestive process, lowering cholesterol levels and increasing absorption of nutrients. Choose this source of fiber if you are experiencing loose stools, alternating diarrhea with constipation, or incomplete stool production. Common food sources: oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, apples, oranges, grapefruits, vegetables. Common fiber supplements: Citrucel®, Benefiber®, Fiber Choice®, and Metamucil®. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to... more »
Nutrition
When pursuing bariatric surgery, there are many thoughts that can circulate in your head, such as eating after surgery, exercising, and postoperative pain, but one of the biggest concerns is the dreaded pre-op diet. If you were to do a quick internet search on bariatric pre-op diets, you'd see no two are alike. One thing that cannot be stressed enough is that every surgeon and every clinic will have their own pre-op diet. It's important to follow their diet and guidelines, as this is what they have found to be best for their patients. Length of Pre-Op Diet Pre-op diets can range from a few days of a clear liquid diet, full liquids for a few weeks, participating in a program that requires several months of nutrition visits with weight checks, to even following a VLCD (800 calories a day or less). Even though each diet looks different, one of the main purposes of each diet is to reduce the size of your liver. Having an enlarged and fatty liver has been shown to complicate bariatric... more »
Nutrition
It’s well known that exercise, whether or not you’ve had weight loss surgery, leads to a change in body composition. But did you know there are even more beneficial effects of exercise? In the majority of reports on exercising in the bariatric population, a positive effect on anthropometrics, cardiovascular risk factors, and physical fitness was described. Today we will discuss the parameters of a beneficial exercise program, how long it should last, common questions patients ask when starting a new routine, and when to get started for optimal and lasting results. Obesity is a major contributor to a wide variety of diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The only treatment with a longstanding effect is bariatric surgery, and there is extensive knowledge that exercise helps one gain better physical fitness and quality of life. You were probably told by your bariatric surgeon to start exercising in some capacity before your... more »
Nutrition
Bariatric surgery does not treat food addiction. This statement might be a revelation to some, but it’s also the title of a book by Dr. Connie Stapleton, Ph.D. According to Dr. Stapleton, “Food addiction is often undiagnosed and can sabotage even the best efforts to lose weight and keep it off. Food addiction is a disease separate from the disease of obesity. If food addiction is present and untreated, it will overtake efforts to treat the obesity, resulting in ongoing medical comorbidities, hopelessness, and frustration.1 Like food addiction, other eating disorders can be common among bariatric patients. A study that assessed rates of eating disorders among those with a BMI > 40 found that although women are as much as 3 times more likely than men to suffer from any eating disorder, men and women were equally likely to experience binge eating.2 Binge Eating Disorder What exactly is binge eating disorder? Beyond eating large quantities of food in a short period of time, clinical... more »
Nutrition
Protein, protein, protein. Whether you are pre-op, post-op, or somewhere in between, the protein conversation is never-ending. Your protein intake can be met with a variety of foods, but what most commonly comes to mind are animal sources: chicken, beef, pork, fish, etc. However, you can meet your protein goals through a vegetarian diet, if you so choose! A vegetarian diet is one that does not include chicken, fish, beef, or pork but does include other animal byproducts such as cheese and eggs. A vegan diet consists of no animal proteins or animal byproducts. Protein Basics Protein is made up of 20 amino acids, including the 9 essential amino acids. Some of these amino acids are found in lower quantities in vegetarian sources. However, all needs can be met through a diverse vegetarian diet. If you follow a vegetarian diet and only eat beans, you will not get all your essential amino acids. Luckily, most of us don’t eat only one food, so this shouldn’t be a problem!1 Before we dive... more »
Nutrition
Over the Counter (OTC) multivitamin mineral supplements became available in the early 1940s, and people have been taking them ever since. They account for almost 16.67% of all purchases of dietary supplements and 40% of all sales of vitamin and mineral supplements. In the United States in 2018, an estimated $124.8 billion was reported from the sale of dietary supplements. This amount included $42.6 billion for all vitamin and mineral-containing supplements, of which $8.5 billion was spent on multivitamins alone. Multivitamin Regulation Our bodies need vitamins and minerals daily to function properly, and the absence of these can lead to severe health issues and even death. However, there is no standard or regulatory definition for a multivitamin supplement, and there are no standards for specific nutrients it must contain or at what levels. Therefore, the term can refer to products of widely varied compositions and characteristics. Manufacturers are able to determine the types and levels... more »
Nutrition
Hair loss is one of the most common side effects patients experience after bariatric surgery and is usually experienced between 3-6 months following surgery. One study that looked at post-laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy patients found that 56% of patients experienced hair loss, 46% female and 10% male.1 There are two stages of hair loss after surgery; one is fairly common, while the other may require assessment for nutritional deficiencies. Hair Shedding This most commonly happens in the early post-operative stage. You may notice hair shedding more when you brush your hair, when you shower, or even when simply running your fingers through your hair. This is normal and is caused by telogen effluvium, a disruption in the normal hair cycle triggered by stress and hormone changes your body experiences from rapid weight loss.2 Hair shedding is less commonly associated with protein malnutrition or vitamin/mineral deficiencies, although one study found that patients with higher zinc and iron... more »
Nutrition
The clinical diagnosis of constipation is when a person has difficult bowel movements or passes less than three bowel movements a week.1 As we discuss constipation further, it is important to remember this: pre-surgery, you might have had a bowel movement every day, but changes are occurring, and remembering the clinical diagnosis can be helpful to prevent stress about this common side effect. Constipation is a common side effect patients deal with after bariatric surgery. Constipation can occur in patients who have had any of the four major bariatric surgeries: sleeve gastrectomy, gastric banding, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and duodenal switch. The occurrence after bariatric procedures ranges between 7 and 39%. What Causes Constipation Constipation can occur as a result of a number of causes. After surgery, patients consume little solid food and small amounts of fluid; both can cause constipation. Additionally, iron supplementation is needed after surgery, and this and patients’... more »
Nutrition
Balancing cost, convenience, and quality with a bariatric vitamin regimen is one tricky feat. It seems that to get the most of one, we have to sacrifice another. Appealing to this concern, vitamin patches entered the market with a promise to deliver, but are they really effective? Effectiveness of Patches The bottom line is there is not enough research yet to prove they work. In fact, the limited research available has actually shown that patches lead to more vitamin deficiency. In a small study, the vitamin patch group had more deficiencies than the oral supplement group.1 Despite the small study size, the results raise some concern, with 82.35% in the patch group having at least 1 deficiency compared to 40.74% in the pill group.1 Vitamin D deficiency was seen in 81% of patients in patch group versus 36% in the pill group. Lower serum concentrations of vitamin D, B1, and B12 were seen in the patch group.1 To better understand why the results favor oral supplements, let’s take a... more »
Nutrition
After bariatric surgery, we need vitamins to meet the specific needs of our new GI tracts. This is why it’s recommended to take bariatric specific vitamins instead of over-the-counter vitamins. Did you know that not all vitamins are absorbed the same in the body? There are two types of vitamins: water-soluble and fat-soluble. We are going to look specifically at fat-soluble vitamins, why deficiencies occur after bariatric surgery, and what you can do to prevent deficiencies. What are fat-soluble vitamins? Where are they absorbed? Fat-soluble vitamins are vitamins A, D, E, and K. These vitamins are absorbed along with dietary fat and are stored in the body’s fat tissues, as opposed to water-soluble vitamins that are absorbed in water, any excess is excreted through urine. Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed in the duodenum—the first part of the small intestine. To note, the duodenum is also the part of the small intestine that is bypassed in the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass... more »
Nutrition
Fertility After WLS While obesity is a well-known contributor to female infertility, studies have also shown that weight loss “can restore ovulatory cycles, allowing for spontaneous pregnancy” in obese patients with PCOS.1 Bariatric surgery has been proven to improve menstrual regulation and fertility2, but there are nutritional complications one should consider before becoming pregnant after bariatric surgery. We will dive into the different potential complications and how you can navigate through pregnancy safely after bariatric surgery. Potential Complications Malnutrition and vitamin/mineral deficiencies are high-risk nutritional complications that can impact fetal growth. These complications are due to rapid weight loss and inability to eat large portions of food (adequate nutrients) in the first year after bariatric surgery. It’s generally recommended to avoid pregnancy for at least 12-24 months after bariatric surgery to avoid these risks.3 Optimal care for women... more »
Nutrition
Before surgery, you may have enjoyed a drink or two after a long day at work or during an evening out with friends. Unfortunately, these habits will have to change after your surgery. There are a few reasons why this change is necessary. The first we will look at is the simplest. If you do drink, you know to never drink on an empty stomach. At the same time, one of the biggest rules after bariatric surgery is that you cannot eat while drinking. This can cause alcohol to be absorbed at an even faster rate. If there is nothing in the stomach to absorb the alcohol, you will feel the effects faster. This post-bariatric surgery guide is here to inform you of the increased effects of alcohol. How Surgery Affects Alcohol Absorption Let’s look at the changes to anatomy that occur during surgery and how this affects alcohol sensitivity and absorption. When alcohol enters the stomach of someone with normal gut anatomy, some of it is metabolized in the stomach by the enzyme alcohol... more »
Nutrition
When trying to lose weight, how many times have you been told to track your food from your registered dietitian, health coach, primary care, bariatric surgeon, etc.? Chances are you have heard this repeated, but who has actually taken the time to do it? Few people enjoy food tracking, but it has been proven to be beneficial in short and long-term weight loss when paired with visits with health professionals. How to Track Your Food Tracking your food can be accomplished several ways. You can download a food tracking application on your phone, get a notebook and simply write down the details of your meals, and you can even print a food diary from several different sources. No matter the way you choose to track your food, it will help you be more mindful with your food choices, more aware of the calories in your foods, and even help you detect food allergies/intolerances. Benefits of Food Tracking A study performed in West Virginia encouraged patients to maintain food and exercise logs by pen... more »
Nutrition
When we think of bacteria, we usually associate these microorganisms with germs that make us sick. We don’t immediately think of probiotics, a type of bacteria that can support our health instead of making us sick. Probiotics are specific strains of bacteria that are healthy and important for our bodies. We all host billions of probiotic bacteria in our digestive system (and even on our skin) that play very important roles in human health. But what in particular makes probiotics beneficial after bariatric surgery? Why Probiotics Are Important To begin, we must understand what probiotics do in our bodies. Probiotics, also known as “good bacteria” exist in balance with “bad bacteria.” This balance is very important; if there aren’t enough of the good guys, the bad bacteria can take over and spread through the digestive system. Other benefits of probiotics include:1 Preventing and treating diarrhea Improving mental health Lowering LDL cholesterol Relieving... more »
Recipes
Flank steak is not actually a steak at all! It's cut from the belly of the cow so it’s not only an extremely lean cut of meat, but it’s also really flavorful! Combined with a classic Argentinean Chimichurri sauce this meal is great for a quick... more »
Recipes
This teriyaki sauce is so simple and flavorful to make you’ll never want to buy it from the store again! It lasts up to 3 weeks in the fridge and can be eaten on chicken, salmon, pork, or used in a veggie stir fry! The sauce paired with these... more »
Recipes
It's strawberry season! Whether you're growing strawberries in your yard, or just grabbing them from the store, right now they are at their sweetest and most nutritious. These strawberry oatmeal bars are low in added sugar but packed with flavor! They're... more »
Recipes
Mint Chocolate is a classic flavor combo that is equally satisfying and refreshing! This shake is great for a festive winter treat or a refreshing drink on a hot summer day! Servings: 1 Ingredients: 2 scoops Chocolate Rebuild 8 oz Milk of Choice (Rec. Skim or Almond) 1 tbsp Sugar Free Chocolate Sauce ¼ tsp Mint Extract ½ cup Ice Directions Add all ingredients into a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth. Serve Immediately.
Recipes
Looking for something to replace your favorite coffee shop drink? This iced mocha will be your saving grace! Rich Chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the intensity of the decaf coffee. And making this in the morning will save you the hassle of stopping on your morning commute! Servings: 1 Ingredients: 2 scoops Chocolate Rebuild 6 oz Brewed Decaf Coffee 2 oz Milk of Choice (Rec. Skim or Almond) 1 tbsp Sugar Free Chocolate Sauce ½ cup Ice Directions Add all ingredients into a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth. Serve Immediately.
Recipes
Pina Colada’s scream summertime! They are the best combination of sweet coconut, tangy pineapple, and refreshing lime! This protein shake delivers on tropical flavor and is a great addition to any hot summer day. Servings: 1 Ingredients: 2 scoops Unflavored Rebuild 4 oz Coconut Milk 1 cup Frozen Pineapple 2 tsp Lime Juice ½ tsp Coconut Extract 1 tsp Honey ¼ cup Ice Directions Add all ingredients into a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth. Serve Immediately.
Recipes
This shake combines everything you love about peanut butter cookies and snickerdoodles into one creamy protein shake! With a little added peanut butter flavor this shake will definitely take you back to your childhood! Servings: 1 Ingredients: 2 scoops Peanut Butter Cookie Rebuild 8 oz Milk of Choice (rec skim or almond) 2 tbsp Peanut Butter Powder ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon ¼ tsp Vanilla Extract ½ cup ice Directions Add all ingredients into a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth. Serve Immediately.
Recipes
This bright and citrusy protein shake is very reminiscent of a drink you’d get poolside at a beach resort or even a baseball game. It is cool, refreshing, and perfect to curb any sweet craving over the hot summer months. Servings: 1 Ingredients: 2 scoops Unflavored Rebuild 6 oz Coconut milk 1 sachet Sugar Free Lemonade mix (ex. Crystal light or similar) 2 tbsp Lemon Juice 1 cup Ice Directions Add all ingredients into a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth. Serve Immediately.
Recipes
Need a quick and easy make-ahead breakfast option for the week? This casserole will be your new best friend! It’s loaded with veggies and protein and is easy to throw together on a Sunday evening, then store in the fridge for the rest of the week!... more »
Recipes
Breakfast always seems to be a challenge, especially if you’re trying to get out the door ASAP! This baked oatmeal recipe can be prepped on the weekend, cut, and stored in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go breakfast. They’re packed with fiber and... more »
Recipes
Servings: 8 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced into 1 in pieces 1 medium yellow onion 1 red bell pepper, sliced thin 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced thin 3 carrots, sliced on the diagonal... more »
Recipes
Cold winter evenings call for warm and cozy recipes! But just because food is warm and cozy doesn’t mean it has to be overly rich and heavy! This minestrone soup is packed with protein, veggies, and whole grains and is a great addition to your... more »
Recipes
Want to switch up your game day snacks? Swap out your regular buffalo chicken wings for these cauliflower bites and you won’t miss the chicken or the extra calories!... more »
Recipes
Need a quick and easy weeknight meal? This chicken is a perfect healthy option! A great recipe for spring and summer - the fresh bruschetta mixture pairs perfectly with bubbly cheese and chicken. Just add a side salad or veggie to complete your meal!... more »
Recipes
Do you like to end your day with something sweet? Try this double chocolate protein brownie recipe for your next sweet treat! Forget regular boxed brownies; with the power of Celebrate Rebuild and Celebrate ReNew, this recipe packs 8 grams of protein... more »
Advocacy
Do you use People First Language? People are more than a label and much more than a number on a scale. Using People First Language means respecting people in conversation, writing, and all forms of communication. It is the opposite of defining... more »
Nutrition
You might workout at the gym and pump iron a few times a week, but your body pumps iron continuously through the bloodstream every day. Iron is needed to make hemoglobin, a part of red blood cells that acts like an Uber driver for carbon dioxide and oxygen. It locates oxygen in the lungs, drives it through the bloodstream, and releases it off in tissues including the skin and muscles. It then picks up the carbon dioxide and drives it back to the lungs where it's exhaled. What is iron deficiency? Iron deficiency occurs when the body doesn’t absorb enough iron needed to perform daily functions. You might be deficient and not even know because symptoms appear only when iron deficiency has progressed to iron deficiency anemia, a condition in which the body’s iron stores are low enough that a sufficient amount of normal red blood cells cannot be made to carry oxygen efficiently throughout the body. Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in... more »
Nutrition
What is it? Weight regain is known as one of the most impacting long-term complications post bariatric surgery, though there is currently no clear definition to what exactly weight regain means. A recent poll from the International Bariatric Club, a group of experts in the field of bariatrics, determined that the two most favorable definitions of weight regain are “regaining weight to achieve a BMI above 35”, and/or “an increase in weight of above 10 kg (22 lbs.) from the patients lowest post-operative weight”, respectively.1 No matter your definition, if you are a post bariatric surgery patient who is experiencing weight regain there is no denying it is frustrating, and can sometimes lead to feelings of defeat, anger, or even depression. Why does it happen? It is nearly impossible to pinpoint exactly what causes weight regain. Mechanisms behind weight regain stem from lifestyle, mental health, hormonal changes, surgical factors, or... more »
Megan Callahan, RDN Videos
Whether attempting to lose weight or preparing for surgery, the majority of patients affected by obesity and extra weight are deficient in a large number of vitamins and minerals. We created our Multi-Well multivitamin to work in conjunction with our... more »
Meaghan Points, MS, RDN/LD, CSOWM Videos
Our BALANCE Probiotic + prebiotic contains 28.5 billion CFU’s at time of manufacture, is shelf stable, and guarantees 15 billion CFU’s at expiration. This probiotic is made up of 5 strains and the strains that have been selected may aid in... more »
Taylor Brodie, MS, RDN, LD Videos
Created specifically for bariatric surgery patients, Celebrate’s new Hair, Skin & Nails formula nourishes your beauty so you shine, from the inside out! Enhance your health and vitality, by restoring radiant hair, reinforcing strong nails, and... more »
Robbi Hoff, RDN, LDN Videos
CelebrateONE-45 contains all of the vitamin and minerals in a single dose option, patients just need to add calcium. This one-dose daily bariatric multivitamin meets or exceeds the ASMBS standards of multivitamin and iron after bariatric surgery. This integrated... more »
Selena Hasircoglu, MS, RDN, LDN, CPT Videos
Celebrate® Rebuild Protein + was created to support a healthy gut microbiome while keeping your body in muscle protein balance. This whey protein isolate shake contains a prebiotic, probiotic, and fiber to support weight loss and muscle maintenance. ... more »
Clinton Bublitz Videos
Our amazing High Protein Meal Replacement protein powder shakes boast a PDCAA score of 100, which means they are a complete protein, so you know you are getting the high-quality protein you need (24-27 g per serving). Available in sweet and savory... more »
Clinton Bublitz Videos
Celebrate ReNew is made up of Types I and III Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides. Adding collagen to your diet may help ease joint pain, reverse skin aging, build muscle, strengthen hair and nails, and improve digestive health. ... more »
Taylor Brodie, MS, RDN, LD Videos
We created the Essential Multi 3 in 1 (multivitamin, calcium citrate, and fiber) and Essential Multi 4 in 1 (multivitamin, calcium citrate, fiber, and protein) specifically for surgical weight loss patients, and it is the best option for... more »
Robbi Hoff, RDN, LDN Videos
Iron deficiencies are one of the most common side effects of bariatric surgery. To ensure your health, we developed an iron that is easy on the stomach and easy for your body to absorb. Available as a capsule, chewable, or soft chew. ... more »
Selena Hasircoglu, MS, RDN, LDN, CPT Videos
ReFresh sleep aid contains magnesium bisglycinate chelate, melatonin, valerian root extract, and hops flower extract. Magnesium bisglycinate is highly bioavailable that offers the benefits of improved cognitive health, relieves inflammation, improves gut... more »
Nutrition
As Celebrate does with all our bariatric vitamins, we put much thought and consideration into our formulation and are never done looking at ways to improve our products for bariatric patients. We defer to the research and the vast knowledge we gain from working with many of the top-notch bariatric programs across the nation. Some basic information on vitamin B-12 deficiency is outlined below: Pre-op vitamin B12 deficiencies occur in 5-29% of bariatric patients. Post-op vitamin B12 deficiencies occur in 37-70% of bariatric patients. Lab tests for vitamin B12 are not the most reliable. More reliable tests (i.e. homocysteine and methylmalonic acid) are often expensive and not routinely performed by most bariatric programs due to the cost of these tests. Deficiencies of vitamin B12 may not appear for 5+ years after bariatric surgery. Most bariatric patients prefer to simplify their vitamin routine so increasing the vitamin B12 dosage helps reduce the number of supplements most patients... more »
Nutrition
Patients who choose to have bariatric surgery have an increased risk of developing certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies, including calcium. Calcium’s Role Calcium is an essential element for human life. It is the most abundant mineral in the human body and 99% of your body’s calcium is found in your teeth and bones. The remaining 1% of calcium in the body is found in blood, nerve cells, and body tissue. In addition to the commonly known role calcium plays in healthy teeth and bones, it is also essential for growth, maintenance, and reproduction. It also plays a role in blood clotting, muscle contraction, hormone secretion, and the expansion and contraction of your blood vessels. Not getting enough calcium can contribute to poor bone health and other long-term consequences. It is important to note that the body tightly regulates serum calcium. Serum levels of calcium do not change in regards to dietary intake of calcium.... more »
Nutrition
Many patients report food intolerances, especially during the period of time immediately following surgery once you’re allowed to progress to “normal” eating. Some foods may not sit well and cause an uncomfortable feeling or even discomfort for a while. What should you expect if you’re a pre-op or early post-op patient? What are considered “normal” food intolerances and are there other causes of food intolerances? Common Food Intolerances A few foods that are commonly not tolerated well after bariatric surgery may include, but are not limited to, pasta, breads, rice, beef, chicken, pork, eggs, stringy vegetables, fruit with membranes, foods with seeds, and cow’s milk (or other dairy foods with lactose). However, with this in mind, every patient is different with what they can and cannot tolerate. Also remember that each day may be different. One day you may be able to tolerate a food that you may not be able to tolerate a few days later. Another... more »
Nutrition
Many bariatric (surgical and non-surgical) patients choose protein supplements to achieve their daily recommended protein intake, but what is the difference between a meal replacement and a protein supplement? Is one better than the other, especially for bariatric surgery patients? What is a Meal Replacement? The term “meal replacement” is not defined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but generally refers to a calorie-controlled, pre-packaged product in the form of a bar or a beverage (ready-to-drink or powder) that is used to replace a meal. Meal replacements usually provide around 200-250 calories per serving (although some may be as high as 400 calories per serving) and are fortified with more than 20 vitamins and minerals (at a “good” or “excellent source” level), healthy carbs (including fiber), and healthy fats. The inclusion of fiber, in particular, is thought to decrease the incidence of low blood sugar, low... more »
Nutrition
Physical Activity This article does not intend to initiate the debate of exercise versus physical activity terminology. Some individuals call it exercise, but for the purpose of this article we use the terms physical activity and fitness. It is best to not stress over what we are calling it and rather stress the importance of actually doing it, being successful at it, and enjoying it. The goal is to be more active and increase your fitness level. Maybe you have never participated in physical activity before? Maybe you have physical limitations that make certain types of physical activity difficult, if not impossible. There are several benefits related to being physical active and increasing your fitness level, including, but not limited to, stress relief, better sleep, increased overall energy levels, decreased risk of chronic disease, better overall mood, etc. While all of these changes would be considered beneficial, how does someone get past the feeling of not wanting to be physically... more »
Nutrition
What is Important? Is it Just a Bunch of Numbers? As a bariatric surgery patient, you are constantly surrounded by numbers, but what do all of these numbers mean and which ones are important? Below we will review a few common metrics used in bariatric surgery, such as Body Mass Index (BMI), inches, and weight, and discuss their importance. BMI – What is it? What Does it Mean? Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from an individual’s height and weight. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems and/or conditions. You can calculate your BMI multiple ways. You can use a BMI calculator online like one from the National Institute of Health’s website (1). The National Institute of Health also has a Body Mass Index Table you can use to determine you BMI as well (2). To use a BMI table, just find the appropriate height (listed in inches [in])... more »
Nutrition
Diet Progression After Bariatric Surgery Many patients have heard that there’s a diet progression after bariatric surgery (and possibly before). A lot of patients report being nervous about the liquid diet. But why is there a diet progression? Why do you have to follow different diets? Let’s take a look at a brief description of the common diet progressions and why they’re recommended. This is the one time we readily use the word “diet” as a diet is a short-term change to your eating pattern. The “diet” that is being recommended long-term; we typically prefer to call a healthy eating plan instead of using the word diet. Examples of Diet Progressions The diet progression allows patients to move through different phases, eventually eating solid foods again. The amount of time in each stage may vary according to each surgeon or dietitian’s recommendation as well as each individual patient. Be sure to follow the exact recommendations of... more »
Nutrition
We’ve all heard that some nausea and vomiting may be common following your bariatric surgery, but there are some things you can do to lessen these side effects. Here we will review some helpful tips to make the transition to life after surgery a little easier for you. Surgery Anesthesia and surgery itself may cause nausea. It’s important to remember that this is one of the “normal” side effects of having bariatric surgery. However, we all know there are many things that can contribute to nausea and/or vomiting. Pace of Eating Remember t o eat slowly to reduce nausea and/or vomiting following bariatric surgery (WLS). Some surgeons recommend trying to take 30 minutes to eat your meal. However, we all know this all depends on what you’re eating and how far you’re out from your surgery. Some patients may even eat with baby silverware to slow down their pace of eating and remind them to eat slower. Chewing Proper chewing helps you slow down when eating. Some... more »
Nutrition
You just had few bites of ice cream because you were at a birthday party and saying no was just not an option this time. About 45 minutes after eating the ice cream, you start to feel dizzy, a bit disorientated, and panic starts to take over your mind and body. Then you begin to sweat profusely and your hair and shirt become completely soaked. Your skin is glistening and sweat is dripping on the floor. During this state of sweaty panic, you feel like you’ve lost your mind. The state of distress is so severe that you’re not sure what to do next: lie down, start pacing, sip some water, or eat something really quick. What could possibly have happened to you? Is this what dumping feels like? Although each person experiences dumping syndrome differently, here are the basics. What is Dumping Syndrome? Dumping syndrome is a group of symptoms that are most likely to develop if you’ve had surgery to remove all or part of your... more »
Recipes
These tasty tacos are healthy and full of flavor, with just a little kick! It’s back to school and everyone could use a little more time, so this meal is a quick and easy solution that’s oh-so-delicious! Serving Size: 2 tacosServings: 4... more »
Recipes
Garlic & Parmesan Mashed Fauxtatoes: Rich, creamy, and flavorful, but this small-batch recipe has no potatoes! You’ll find tons of flavor and nutrients in this recipe that's just the right size for your post-op holiday needs! Serving Size: 1/3... more »
Recipes
Power up for the next day. This is not your traditional chicken salad. Add a little Dijon mustard, edamame, and pepitas and you have yourself a Power Chicken Salad! Serve it on high-fiber crackers or try it on jicama! You’ll be ready to go... more »
Recipes
In a “curry?” This weeknight meal is big on flavor, but easy to make and saves time! Pull out your crockpot and get ready to fire up this creative twist on a traditional Indian dish that’s low in calories and high in protein. Using... more »
Nutrition
With so many different types of multivitamins out there, it is hard to know what is the best product for you as a bariatric surgery patient and what your body can actually absorb. Unfortunately, not all companies (including many over-the-counter brands and some bariatric vitamin brands) follow the rules of how the body absorbs various nutrients. The multivitamins some of these companies create might include nutrients that cannot be absorbed when taken together or they might include nutrients that need to be provided within a certain ratio for optimal health and in order to prevent deficiencies. Specifically, one of the questions I get asked quite a bit is, “Should my multivitamin contain calcium?” Of course, the answer to this question is not a simple “yes” or “no” and a few questions must be asked before an answer can be provided. Does the Multivitamin Contain Iron? The first question that must be asked... more »
Recipes
Cabbage rolls are down-home comfort food. This smoky version eliminates most of the carbs, leaving you with a soothing winter meal that packs a powerful protein punch! Yields = 12 cabbage rolls Serving size = 2 cabbage rolls Number of servings =... more »
Recipes
Wondering what to do with that last bit of leftover turkey meat? Make it into this low-carb pot pie that's perfect to freeze and reheat on a cold winter's night! Serving size = 1/6 casseroleNumber of servings = 6Prep time = 30 minutesCook time = 30 minutes... more »
Recipes
Do you miss cheeseburgers? If so, this is the recipe for you! These small meatballs pack a big protein-punch with the flavors of bacon, cheese, and even your favorite toppings! Serving Size: 2 meatballs and 1 tsp. of Everything SauceNumber of Servings:... more »
Recipes
Thanksgiving just isn't Thanksgiving without stuffing! This recipe combines the classic flavors of sausage stuffing with the protein power of ancient grains to pack a flavorful and nutritious punch! Serving : 1/3 cupNumber of Servings: 8Prep Time: 30 minutesCook... more »
Recipes
Zoodle ravioli? Yes you can! In this recipe, we fill zucchini noodles with a creamy ricotta mixture and top it with a savory pumpkin sauce for a healthy comfort dish that screams Fall! Serving Size: 2 ravioli Number of Servings: 4Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook... more »
Recipes
Eggs they’re not just for breakfast anymore! This recipe takes advantage of the latest nutritional trend sweet potato toast. Sweet potatoes are rich in nutrients, including beta-carotene, and are a healthy source of carbs for fueling an active... more »
Recipes
Do you enjoy vegetarian meals but worry about getting enough protein? This spicy chili is a hearty meal packed with flavor and protein! Give it a try for a delicious Meatless Monday meal or any day! Serving Size: 1 cupNumber of Servings: 10Prep Time:... more »
Recipes
Burritos are a family meal favorite! These smoky burritos lighten the fat and carb loads without sacrificing flavor. Make a tray of these for the next big game and rest assured you’re fueling you and your family right! Serving size = 1 burrito Number... more »
Recipes
Who doesn’t want dinner to be quick and easy, especially when we have so many other things going on at night? Not only is this recipe quick and easy, it’s also creamy, cheesy, and savory! Oh, did we forget to mention that it’s also... more »
Nutrition
People hate the term “rules”, but they can be important, especially when it relates to behavior change. In order to help patients better achieve success, we’ll refer to “rules” as “guidelines”. So, what are some of the common “rules” or “guidelines” of bariatric surgery? And are they truly important? Let’s find out, but first, please remember to follow your surgeon’s recommendations and remember that every patient is different and your “guidelines” may be different than someone else’s. Ultimately when eating after bariatric surgery, you have to find what works for you and helps you achieve the goals you have. Guidelines The following are a few guidelines that can truly help patients to achieve and maintain success and definitely make the transition to life after surgery smoother. 30 Rule This guideline has four parts: Chew your food 30 times. Take 30 minutes to eat. No drinking 30 minutes before... more »
Nutrition
Following a healthy eating plan high in fiber is a constant recommendation many of us hear frequently throughout the year. But why? And does this apply to a bariatric surgery patient? There are plenty of reasons to consume fiber as part of your healthy eating plan. Below are a few of the reasons to include fiber-rich foods as part of your healthy plan. Fiber Aids in Weight Loss When eating high fiber foods, they typically require more chewing. This helps you slow your pace of eating and gives your body time to realize how full you really are, by preventing overeating. Also, high fiber foods take longer to break down in the digestive system, which makes you feel full longer. High fiber foods may contain fewer calories for similar volumes of foods that are not high in fiber, which also assists in maintaining your weight. Fiber Helps Regulate Cholesterol Soluble fiber, the kind found in beans, oats, flaxseed, and oat bran, may help... more »
Nutrition
Have you ever found yourself chewing cups of ice throughout the day? Many bariatric patients report this behavior after their bariatric surgery. While chewing ice does not necessarily mean you have low iron levels, it does warrant getting your iron levels checked. Iron’s Role Iron is a key element in the metabolism of all living organisms and helps to make up hundreds of proteins and enzymes. Iron has many functions, but below are some of the key functions of iron. Heme is the iron-containing compound found in molecules. Hemoglobin and myoglobin are heme-containing proteins that help to transport and store oxygen. Hemoglobin is the primary protein in red blood cells and makes up two-thirds of the body’s iron. It helps to transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Myoglobin transports and stores oxygen (short-term) for muscle cells. This is extremely important when the muscles are working (such as in a physical activity session). Iron is involved in electron... more »
Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD Videos
Our Multivitamin Soft Chews are the only bariatric soft chew available that contain magnesium and copper in a soft texture option. This bariatric multivitamin meets the ASMBS standards for multivitamin supplementation after bariatric surgery. The... more »
Megan Callahan, RDN Videos
For those who want to avoid taking a separate iron supplement, our Multi-Complete 45 multivitamin with iron contains all of the vitamins and minerals that are in our original bariatric multivitamin formula PLUS 45 mg of iron per daily serving. This... more »
Meaghan Points, MS, RDN/LD, CSOWM Videos
For those surgeries that require additional supplementation, such as the duodenal switch, high levels of vitamins A, D, E, and K are a necessity, and this is where the Celebrate Multi-ADEK comes in. Having different nutrient levels doesn’t mean... more »
Nicholas Giaconia Videos
Our 5,000 IU (125 mcg) and 25,000 IU (625 mcg) were developed using dry, water miscible vitamin D3. Our quick melt tablets also utilizes our quick-melt technology and is available in orange 5,000 IU and Berry 25,000 IU Berry. We also offer a... more »
Abbey Czekaj RDN, LD Videos
Available in 9 AMAZING flavors that include Watermelon, Cherry, Strawberry-Banana, Café Mocha, Chocolate, Caramel, Orange, Blackberry, and our newest flavor, Island Fruit! All of our flavors feature our Ultra-smooth texture formulation that has... more »
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