Lifestyle

Vitamin B12 for Energy: Staying Energetic During the Winter Months

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD November 6th, 2024

Lifestyle

As winter rolls in, many of us may notice a shift in our energy levels. The shorter days, colder temperatures, and sometimes gloomy weather can leave us feeling more fatigued than usual. While factors like lack of sunlight and physical activity play a...

Embracing Fall: The Best Fall Ingredients to Savor

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD October 10th, 2024

Lifestyle

As the leaves turn to vibrant shades of red and gold, it’s time to welcome the flavors of the fall season into our kitchens. Autumn brings a bounty of seasonal ingredients that not only celebrate the harvest but also warm our hearts and homes....

Dietary Supplements for Metabolism Support - Celebrate

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD September 16th, 2024

Lifestyle

The relationship between adipose (fat) tissue and metabolic processes within the body contribute to the complexity of obesity. Adipose (fat) cells are active and can cause dysregulation in insulin, lipid and hormone signaling. Furthermore, these signals...

The Ultimate Guide to Staying Hydrated During Summer Heat - Celebrate

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD August 2nd, 2024

Lifestyle

Uncover the secrets to staying cool and healthy this summer! Our guide to staying hydrated during summer months offers tips and tricks to beat the heat.

Celebrate Bariatric Surgery Success Story - Jenna - Celebrate

July 16th, 2024

Lifestyle

Celebrate Vitamins ambassador Jenna Klyber tells her bariatric surgery story and how essential choosing the right supplements has been to her sustained success.

Healthy BBQ Ideas to Sizzle Your Summer - Celebrate

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD July 2nd, 2024

Lifestyle

Get summer ready with our healthy BBQ ideas and recipes. Find protein-packed & delicious options that fit your post-bariatric diet.

The Gut Health Superstars: L-Glutamine and Immunoglobulins - Celebrate

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD June 5th, 2024

Lifestyle

Explore the science behind L-Glutamine and Immunoglobulins, two rising stars in the world of gut health. Discover how they can support digestion, immunity, and overall well-being.

Navigating Summer Travel After Bariatric Surgery: Tips for a Successful Journey

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD May 7th, 2024

Lifestyle

In this article, explore practical tips to help you stay on track with your weight loss goals summer travel after bariatric surgery.

Finding Bariatric Surgery Support Groups: The Power of Peer Support

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD April 15th, 2024

Lifestyle

Bariatric support groups offer a sense of hope, solidarity, and community that is essential for achieving long-term success after weight loss surgery. Read to learn more.

Bariatric Meal Planning 101: Creating Balanced and Delicious Post-Bariatric Meals

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD March 6th, 2024

Lifestyle

Explore the essentials of bariatric meal planning for individuals who have undergone weight loss surgery. You'll learn practical tips and insights to help create meals that are not only nutritionally sound but also satisfying to the taste buds.

Navigating Your Social Life After Bariatric Surgery

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD February 9th, 2024

Lifestyle

Life after bariatric surgery involves more than just physical changes; it entails navigating a new social landscape. Read our tips on how to navigate your social life after bariatric surgery with confidence.

The Role of Vitamin Supplements for Cold Winter Weather - Celebrate

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD January 11th, 2024

Lifestyle

Vitamin supplements can play a crucial role in maintaining optimal health and boosting immune system function during the winter season. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of vitamin supplements in cold weather months.

Healthy Holiday Eating After Bariatric Surgery

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD November 15th, 2023

Lifestyle

Celebrating the holidays can be stressful after bariatric surgery. See our tips on how to navigate the holiday table with ease.

Why You Should NOT Be Taking Calcium and Iron Together

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD November 8th, 2023

Lifestyle

Calcium and iron both play vital roles in the human body. However, it is recommended that these vital minerals should not be taken together.

Tailgate Ideas for Bariatric Patients

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD October 27th, 2023

Lifestyle

Behind every great football game, there is an even better tailgate. See our healthy game day recipes that are guilt free and easy to enjoy!

Vitamin A Deficiency and Bariatric Surgery

Taylor Brodie, MS, RDN, LD October 24th, 2023

Lifestyle

Understanding the impact of Vitamin A deficiency on individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery is crucial for ensuring comprehensive postoperative care. Explore the intricacies of this nutritional concern and shed light on effective strategies for preventing deficiencies.

Celebrate Success - Aby

October 6th, 2023

Lifestyle

We caught up with Brand Ambassador Aby 90 days post-op to see how life has changed and what Celebrate products she found most helpful during her time after bariatric surgery.

Celebrate Success - Crystal Gail

September 12th, 2023

Lifestyle

Our brand ambassador Crystal Gail shares her personal thoughts on her first year after bariatric surgery and shares her triumphs and goals for the future.

All About Carbs After Bariatric Surgery

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD August 16th, 2023

Lifestyle

Adjusting to a new dietary lifestyle for weight loss success can seem hard. Learn how taking a mindful approach to consuming carbs after bariatric surgery can lead to positive outcomes.

Nutritional Considerations After Bariatric Surgery

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD July 26th, 2023

Lifestyle

Learn about how anatomical changes that occur to the gastrointestinal tract after WLS have significant impact on your nutritional needs before, during, and after bariatric surgery.

Eating Out After Bariatric Surgery

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD June 28th, 2023

Lifestyle

Discover the secrets to successful eating out after bariatric surgery. From navigating menus to making healthier choices, learn how to enjoy dining out while staying on track with your weight loss journey.

The Most Complete and Best Bariatric Vitamins

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD June 14th, 2023

Lifestyle

Research shows that after bariatric surgery, your body may not absorb all the required nutrients needed. A vitamin protocol that has been developed specifically for bariatric patients will help prevent deficiencies. See our complete list of the best bariatric vitamins and supplements that will ensure your long term success.

Carbonation and Caffeine After Bariatric Surgery

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD June 7th, 2023

Lifestyle

Discover the impact of carbonation and caffeine after bariatric surgery and how they can potentially hinder your weight loss progress. Inside, we explore the reasons why these substances should be consumed in moderation and provide helpful tips on finding alternative beverage choices for optimal post-surgery health.

High Protein Bariatric Snack Ideas

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD May 31st, 2023

Lifestyle

Discover a variety of high protein bariatric snack ideas that are both satisfying and nutritious. From brownies and shakes to Greek yogurt and veggies with hummus, this article explores tasty options to keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day, making your weight loss journey even more enjoyable.

Benefits of Weight Loss Before Bariatric Surgery

Taylor Brodie, MS, RDN, LD May 17th, 2023

Lifestyle

Learn how pre-operative weight loss can positively impact your bariatric journey towards a healthier, happier life.

How Dietary and Vitamin Needs are Influenced After Bariatric Surgery

Taylor Brodie, MS, RDN, LD May 10th, 2023

Lifestyle

After bariatric surgery, the body's ability to absorb nutrients is affected, which can result in deficiencies. Learn why and how weight loss surgery influences your body's dietary and vitamin needs.

Weight Regain After Bariatric Surgery

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD April 26th, 2023

Lifestyle

Weight regain is a long term complication after bariatric surgery. This common occurrence does not have to mean failed weight loss. We give you our tips and tricks on how to get back on track and stay there.

Zinc and Copper Deficiency After Bariatric Surgery

Taylor Brodie, MS, RDN, LD April 19th, 2023

Lifestyle

See why some patients may experience a zinc and copper deficiency after bariatric surgery and what bariatric supplements are available for prevention and treatment.

The Pros and Cons of Different Bariatric Vitamins Delivery Forms

Taylor Brodie, MS, RDN, LD April 12th, 2023

Lifestyle

You’ve probably noticed that bariatric vitamins come in all shapes, sizes and flavors. See the pros and cons of different vitamin delivery forms and discover the best option for you.

Ingredients to Add to Your Bariatric Protein Shake Recipes

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD April 5th, 2023

Lifestyle

Consuming enough protein each day can be a challenge no matter who you are. But it’s an exceptional challenge when you are post-bariatric surgery. It is typically recommended to consume 60-100 grams of protein each day following weight loss surgery1....

Collagen After Bariatric Surgery

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD March 30th, 2023

Lifestyle

Weight loss surgery can result in significant changes to the body, including changes to the skin and other connective tissues. Collagen, a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin, can be particularly affected by bariatric surgery. Learn all about Collagen & see 2 easy recipes to get more of it.

How to Restart: Overcoming Plateaus and Weight Regain After Bariatric Surgery

Taylor Brodie, MS, RDN, LD March 23rd, 2023

Lifestyle

A very real part of weight loss surgery is the plateau. Plateaus and regain are challenges that bariatric patients will need to face and conquer. We provide tips on how.

Eating After Bariatric Surgery - 9 Rules for Success

March 15th, 2023

Lifestyle

Are you wondering what rules for eating you should follow after bariatric surgery to achieve success? Read now to learn of 9 guidelines that will help to ease the transition into life after bariatric surgery.

Bariatric Friendly Restaurants

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD March 8th, 2023

Lifestyle

Inside we give you our suggestions for bariatric friendly restaurants, as well as a few tips to help you make the right choices at each place to keep you on track for success.

Setting Realistic Goals After Bariatric Surgery

Samantha Stavola MHA, RDN, LD March 1st, 2023

Lifestyle

Do you make an attempt every year at goal setting, only to find you fall short? We'll help you learn to set realistic goals during your bariatric journey and why setting goals is so important for your health.

Your Diet After Bariatric Surgery

February 23rd, 2023

Lifestyle

You just had bariatric surgery and are home from the hospital - now what? See our list of healthy eating habits and behaviors post weight loss surgery.

Tips to Reduce Vomiting and Nausea After Bariatric Surgery

February 20th, 2023

Lifestyle

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of anesthesia and surgery. Read our tips of how to reduce these unpleasant side effects after bariatric surgery.

6 Lifestyle Changes to Make Before Bariatric Surgery

January 15th, 2023

Lifestyle

Are you in the process of qualifying, or have you already qualified for bariatric surgery? At either of these points, your surgeon may give you lifestyle guidelines to implement before surgery.

Dumping Syndrome after Surgery - Symptoms & Prevention - Celebrate

November 30th, 2022

Lifestyle

Dumping syndrome most commonly effects gastric bypass and DS surgery patients. So what is dumping syndrome? And what can you do to prevent these severe symptoms. Inside, we break it down.

Exercise After Bariatric Surgery - Plans and Workouts

June 6th, 2022

Lifestyle

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?

Probiotics After Bariatric Surgery

June 6th, 2022

Lifestyle

Probiotics are specific strains of bacteria that are healthy and important for our bodies. This good bacteria plays a vital role in human health. Learn what in particular makes probiotics beneficial after bariatric surgery.

Bariatric Diet After Surgery: Post Op Eating Tips

February 1st, 2022

Lifestyle

You have been prepping for the big day for months-maybe even years. Now that you bariatric surgery has occurred, it's time to begin your post-op diet and the rest of your life!

Adolescent Bariatric Surgery

January 17th, 2022

Lifestyle

80% of adolescents aged 10 to 14 years will remain obese into their adult years. Similar to treating obesity in adults, there are many different treatment options for adolescents, including bariatric surgery.

Who Qualifies for Bariatric Surgery?

January 1st, 2022

Lifestyle

When considering bariatric surgery, one may wonder if they meet the requirements. There are several different things to consider when it comes to undergoing a bariatric procedure. And remember, having surgery isn’t the "easy way out." While having a bariatric procedure is the most helpful tool to lose weight, it is still just a tool. Every successful patient still puts in the effort to eat right, exercise, follow up with their surgeon, take their vitamins, and attend support groups to maintain weight loss. Clinical guidelines are updated every few years to keep clinicians up to date on the best bariatric practices. Included is an explanation regarding who is a candidate for bariatric surgery. If an insurance has bariatric coverage, they develop their own criteria on what must be met to receive coverage. Your physician's office will most likely be able to give you details on your personal insurance, but it is always helpful to call and get the criteria yourself. That said, patients...

How to Use Protein Supplements Long Term After Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery

December 15th, 2021

Lifestyle

In the initial phases of bariatric surgery post-operative care, protein shakes are commonly used to help patients reach their protein goals. As time goes on and patients can eat more solid foods, the use of protein shakes tends to decrease for most. While this is okay, it’s also okay to continue using protein shakes daily to hit your protein goals. How can you best use protein supplements on a long-term basis after you have completed your bariatric weight-loss surgery? Why is Protein Important Long-Term After Bariatric Surgery? Protein is important long-term to help ensure fullness and satiety, and aids in maintaining fat-free mass (muscle mass) while losing fat mass or maintaining your fat mass loss. One study by Lopes Gomes, et al. found whey protein supplementation helped post-RNYGB patients lose more fat-mass, with no change in fat-free mass, compared to the intervention group that did not supplement with whey protein.1 How Much Protein Do You Need? According to the 2019...

Intermittent Fasting after Bariatric Surgery

December 1st, 2021

Lifestyle

Intermittent fasting (IF) has quickly become one of the world’s most welcomed approaches  to weight loss, overall health, and simplifying life. Studies have shown it can have powerful effects on your body and brain, and it may even help you live longer (1,2). Some find following an IF regimen easier than a traditional calorie-restriction approach (3). IF's concept seems to be divisive, so it's important for us to take a closer look at the research and define the good, bad, and unknown, including whether it's a practice that should be recommended to weight loss surgery patients. What is Intermittent Fasting (IF)? IF is defined as an eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and eating. Typically, the types of food eaten are not specified; rather, the eating time is specified. Two common intermittent fasting methods are daily 16-hour fasts and fasting for 24 hours, twice per week (3). Fasting for a certain number of hours each day (or eating just one meal a couple days a week)...

The Best, highest Quality Protein Powders for Shakes

November 15th, 2021

Lifestyle

Protein is essential for a healthy body. It feeds our organs, supports bodily functions, keeps us full, and builds muscle. To consume enough protein, many of us turn to protein supplements. With protein shakes/powders saturating the market, how do we know what to choose? Which brand is best? Which form of protein is best? There's whey protein, soy protein, egg protein, pea protein, and more! Let's look at how to tell what are the highest-quality protein powders from others and make the best choice. The first thing to consider when choosing a protein supplement is what type of protein the product is made from, which can be overwhelming. Whey protein concentrate is one of the most available sources of protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids, which makes it a complete form. Additionally, it breaks down quickly and easily for digestion. Whey protein isolate is considered high quality. It's a purer product, less processed, and is lactose-free, which makes it a better option for more...

What Is a GMP Certified Supplement?

November 1st, 2021

Lifestyle

What is the difference between dietary supplements and pharmaceutical drugs? Both come as pills, capsules, liquids, and more. Both are taken for health purposes. Because both go into our bodies, one would think they would be regulated the same, but this is not so. One significant way they differ is in their regulation by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). According to the FDA, dietary supplements include products like "vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and herbs or botanicals, as well as other substances that can be used to supplement the diet."1 They can be taken for a number of reasons specific to the dietary ingredient included in the product, but the most common objective is to replace any gaps in nutrition in the diet or to optimize wellness. All dietary supplements should be discussed with your doctor due to the risk of drug-nutrient interactions and potential adverse effects.  A healthy dose of caution is warranted with supplements, but that’s not to say there is no...

Vitamin D Deficiency Pre- and Post-Bariatric Surgery

October 15th, 2021

Lifestyle

Pre-Operative Period Vitamin D is integral in maintaining normal calcium levels by aiding in absorption. Individuals who are obese have greater fat mass, so more vitamin D is required to maintain normal concentrations, due to the fact that vitamin D is segregated in adipose cells1. Peterson et al. noted a deficiency rate of 71.4% out of 58 patients studied, with the majority of deficiency presenting in minority races. Melanin concentrations in the skin present as a risk factor for vitamin D deficiency, with increased concentrations providing a greater risk due to the fact that melanin inhibits vitamin D synthesis1. Another study showed 89.7% of patients had 25-OH-D levels below 76.0 nmol/l, 61.2% below 50.0 nmol/l, and 25.4% below 25nmol/l. As BMI increased across the study population, the rate of vitamin D deficiencies also increased2. Post-Operative Period There is evidence that suggests weight loss procedures can cause a negative effect on bone mineral density, accelerate bone loss, and increase...

Dental Problems After Bariatric Surgery: The Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Oral Health

October 1st, 2021

Lifestyle

Any surgery brings risk and potential complications. Bariatric surgery is no different, and complications include but are not limited to dumping syndrome, hernias, ulcers, bowel obstructions, and gallstones. There is a hidden complication that hasn't received much press or even research, yet still exists: dental problems and oral health issues after bariatric surgery. Little is known about oral health concerns post-WLS; first, let's look at the research that has piqued many patients and professionals' interest. What we know: The current literature is quite limited concerning dental manifestations after bariatric surgery. It has been found there is an increase of dental erosion, increased dental caries, and increased dental hypersensitivity post-operatively. Dental erosion is defined as the irreversible loss of dental hard tissues by a chemical process without bacterial involvement. The acid in the foods and drinks we consume as well as gastric acids from vomiting and reflux can lead to...