Spring has arrived here in central New Jersey and with it comes the start of new beginnings and opportunities for us to thrive. For those considering or already in the process of weight loss surgery, a new start toward health and wellness is already underway.
At this time of year, I encourage my bariatric patients to introduce something “new” to their weight loss journeys in order to promote mental and physical stimulation. Emotional and physical health go hand in hand, as we’ve discussed.
Here are my 5 favorite springtime tips to continue your weight loss momentum and revel in the glory of the new season:
1. Expand your food horizons
By now, you’ve found out what “clean eating” is and how delicious it can be. Take a road trip and sample real foods from local farmers’ markets (I hear there are good stands in downtown Freehold, Brick and Toms River) or spend an hour at the grocery store discovering a new array of seafood, vegetables or fruits to try.
2. Set a new stage
While you take back control of your nutrition and exercise, change up your surroundings as well. Make your home clean and clutter-free. Pick a room that drives you crazy: a closet, your desk, the garage (I can relate here…) and get rid of what is not needed, used or appreciated. Paint the room a different color, move furniture around.
3. Change up the exercise regime
Don’t think taking a class at the gym is for you? Try it once, you may be surprised. Borrow a bike and ride at the park. You can cover more ground and enjoy more of your surroundings. Do you always walk in the morning? Try a walk after dinner when it’s cooler and more peaceful. Join our free Saturday Bariatric Fitness Groups!
4. Mix up your menus
Regardless of your food program, try some new recipes. They are easy to find online (feel free to check with Lori Skurbe, our bariatric dietitian, if you are unsure of a recipe or an ingredient). I’d like to have a Recipe Night at an upcoming Bariatric Support Group meeting at CentraState where everyone can bring copies of their favorite dishes and we can all pick up some new meal ideas.
5. Try something new
Haven’t visited the nearby beach or the mountains in five years? Get out of town for the day and see some new sites. Been meaning to try water aerobics? Find a course that fits your schedule and ask if you can sample a class at no charge.
You are changing your life by losing weight and regaining your health — make sure you have some fun along the way. I’d love to hear how you changed up your daily routine. Let’s discuss the next time you come in to the office or post it on my Facebook page.
It’s a new day and a new season just waiting for you to grab it and make it memorable!
Bariatric Surgery Success is More Than Just the Operation
Take full advantage of Prime Surgicare’s exclusive Bariatric Wellness Program™ which offers seven customized branches of support during your weight loss journey.
If you have tried all the other diets and have not achieved the level of success you are looking for, join me at the next free Patient Seminar where I talk about the safest bariatric options — gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, changing a lap-band to a more productive bariatric option.
Ready to come in and talk about your health and weight goals? Call the Prime Surgicare team at 732-982-2002.
Have a question or concern? Please post a comment below.
About Dr. Seun Sowemimo, MD, FACS
Dr. Seun is a top NJ bariatric surgeon and the medical director at Prime Surgicare, with offices in Freehold serving Monmouth and Ocean counties. He is board-certified, Columbia and Yale University fellowship-trained in advanced laparoscopic, bariatric and general surgery.
To learn more, visit his YouTube channel or call Prime Surgicare at (732)-982-2002.