While you read this article, I hope you have a big water-based beverage next to you. If not, I’d like to convince you to do so.
“Boring old water” is one of the best health foods available, even today. Many people are unaware that this inexpensive and plentiful resource is extremely beneficial in protecting your overall wellness and plays a key role in helping you lose extra weight.
Here’s why:
- During weight loss, water fills up your stomach and helps offset short-term hunger and cravings.
- Limited or low water consumption allows fat to be deposited instead of being metabolized into energy and washed out of the body.
- It helps maintain good muscle tone and clear, healthy skin.
- Water helps minimize lower back pain, headaches, hypertension, muscle pain, joint pain, bloating and constipation.
- It regulates body temperature, removes toxins and wastes out of the body.
Water needs for bariatric patients
The general goal of daily fluid intake is 64 ounces or eight “large-sized” glasses, which requires some planning and forethought after a weight loss surgery procedure, due to your smaller stomach.
My advice is to intersperse meals and fluids throughout the day and try to drink about eight ounces 30 minutes before and after eating. Beyond caffeine-free teas, talk with your bariatric dietitian about other drinks you would like to consume. Watch out for so-called “health” and “protein-boosted” drinks—many are full of hidden calories and sugars.
Water-friendly foods
Keep in mind, you can also boost your water intake when you enjoy several healthy foods, including most fruits and vegetables. These foods supply the body with “time-released” fluids which hydrate during and after the food breaks down in the body. Some dairy products, like milk and Greek yogurt, can contain up to 80 percent water.
For my bariatric patients, I recommend these water-rich foods because of their high water volume, vitamin and mineral content and the ability to make you feel full:
- Cucumbers
- Watermelon
- Water-based soups
- Cantaloupes and green melons
- Apples
Make water-based beverages delicious and appealing
Make drinking water a treat; fill an attractive pitcher with lots of ice, some slices of citrus and mint to add a little fresh flavor. Some of my patients add slices of cucumber, cilantro and basil to their water for spa-like beverage.
When there’s a chill in the air (or your stomach feels a little empty), brew a big mug of green or chamomile tea and keep refilling it. Add a bit of sweetener if your sweet tooth is acting up. You’ll be amazed what this can do to offset hunger and sugar cravings!
Water is an important ally in your daily wellness plan, regardless of your weight. Use it to your advantage and challenge yourself to find new ways to stay hydrated. There are many good reasons why you see people sipping water while they watch a soccer game, run errands or walk the dog.
Make sure you’re one of them!
Are you fighting a losing weight loss battle?
You’re not alone. Many people have tried all the traditional diets and gyms and plans and programs, but still did not achieve the goal they desired.
For some, the volume of weight loss required becomes too difficult to overcome alone.
To learn more about a surgical weight loss solution, which includes the gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, changing from a lap-band to another procedure, attend Dr. Seun’s upcoming Free Patient Seminar at CentraState Healthcare System and learn more.
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.