When selecting the right foods after weight loss surgery, it's essential to consider their impact on satisfaction as well as the nutritional value. When we asked our social media followers about their go-to food items following weight loss surgery, a pattern emerged. Yogurt, mince, avocado, eggs, porridge, cottage cheese, and low-fat ice cream were among the most mentioned options. What do these foods have in common? They are all considered 'easy to eat.' In this article, we will explore the implications of opting for easy-to-eat foods and why incorporating more challenging and nutritious choices can enhance your post-surgery journey.

THE ILLUSION OF EASY EATING

Many weight loss surgery patients often find themselves gravitating towards crackers as an alternative to bread. Crackers that dissolve in the mouth, like Cruskits, have gained popularity as they are easy to eat. However, the ease of eating these crackers may inadvertently lead to increased consumption compared to more substantial and nutrient-dense options such as grainy Vita-Weat or Ryvita. So, let's consider what truly satisfies you.

CHEWING FOR SATISFACTION

The primary goal of weight loss surgery is to feel satisfied eating smaller portions of food. Let's consider two scenarios: chewing through a high-fibre, nutritious cracker like Ryvita or Vita-Weat, or consuming the dissolvable Cruskits after a quick, half-hearted chew. Which option would provide greater satisfaction? This is an experiment worth trying for yourself. Pay attention to the quantity of each type of cracker required to feel satisfied, as well as the duration of satisfaction after consumption.

THE SOFT FOOD TRAP

In our extensive experience working with weight loss surgery clients, we have noticed a common trend. Some individuals tend to remain in the soft food stage, relying on yogurts, soups, mornays, stews, casseroles, and mince dishes even after they have progressed to more solid foods. Others gradually slip back into these softer, easier-to-eat options, or 'slider foods', over time. Many clients claim to prefer soft foods because they are 'easy' to consume and allow them to eat more. However, when we delve a little deeper, we find their true hunger can be satisfied just as well with smaller portions of more challenging foods. Opting for larger quantities of soft, sloppy, or dissolvable foods often caters to our eyes' desires rather than addressing our actual hunger.

BREAKING THE HABIT OF EASY EATING

Are you choosing easy-to-eat foods out of habit? It's worth considering whether incorporating more challenging foods into your diet could provide greater satisfaction and help you achieve your weight loss surgery goals. By diversifying your food choices and embracing options that require more effort to eat, you can enhance the sensory experience of your meals, potentially leading to improved satiety and overall well-being.

NEED SUPPORT?

If you find yourself in need of further guidance regarding food choices and achieving your weight loss surgery goals, we are here to support you. We offer direct access to our knowledgeable team through our signature online support program, Elevate. You can register your interest here to be first to know when doors open. There's no obligation, just a chance to see if it feels like the right fit for you.

In summary, whilst easy-to-eat foods may seem appealing due to their convenience, it's crucial to consider their impact on satisfaction and long-term success after weight loss surgery. Experimenting with more challenging and nutritious options can help you determine what truly satisfies your hunger and enables you to achieve your goals effectively. Remember, by breaking the habit of easy eating and incorporating diverse food choices, you can embark on a journey toward greater satisfaction, improved well-being, and long-lasting success.