When working toward achieving good health after weight loss surgery, we often focus solely on our food choices. However, it's crucial to remember that proper hydration plays an equally vital role in our well-being. Adequate fluid intake offers numerous benefits, including reduced headaches and fatigue, improved brain function, better bowel movement, enhanced mood, and increased attention and memory. Furthermore, studies have shown a link between inadequate hydration and obesity, as thirst is frequently mistaken for hunger. Ensuring sufficient hydration can help curb unnecessary munching. Although it may seem challenging, there are ways to overcome the barriers to hydration following weight loss surgery.

OVERCOMING HYDRATION CHALLENGES

Several common barriers to fluid intake arise after weight loss surgery. These include limited drinking capacity, the need to separate food and fluids, busy schedules, forgetfulness, and finding plain water uninteresting or ‘heavy’. Fortunately, there are practical solutions to ensure you achieve proper hydration post-surgery.

EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES

Consider implementing the following tried and tested suggestions to overcome hydration challenges:

Sip Constantly: Sip fluids throughout the day, aiming for a consistent intake.

Set Reminders: Use reminders on your phone or computer, invest in a bariatric water bottle to track your intake, or keep a water bottle readily available in your bag or on your work desk.

Utilise ‘Quiet Time: Take advantage of moments of tranquillity to consume much-needed fluids, such as in the morning before the bustle of the day or during peaceful evenings after work.

Make It Fun: Experiment with herbal teas, either warm or chilled with ice, to create refreshing iced tea. Add flavour to water by using diet cordial, slices of citrus fruit, or freezing fruit juice into ice cubes. Consider protein waters for flavourful, protein-rich option. They can be used as a cordial or diluted to half strength if the flavour is too strong as they are.

Break the Tension: If plain water feels ‘heavy’ or uncomfortable after weight loss surgery, try fluids with reduced surface tension, such as Fiji water, herbal tea, protein water, or flavoured water.

Practice Mindfulness: Regularly check in with yourself throughout the day:

• When did you last have a drink?

• Are you feeling thirsty?

• Is your perceived hunger actually thirst in disguise?

In summary, achieving proper hydration after weight loss surgery is essential for your overall well-being. By implementing strategies such as sipping constantly, setting reminders, utilising quiet time, making hydration enjoyable, breaking the tension of plain water, and practicing mindfulness, you can overcome the challenges and ensure adequate hydration. Remember, staying hydrated not only supports your physical health but also aids in weight management. Prioritise your fluid intake and embrace the positive impact it can have on your post-surgery journey.

Having trouble keeping your fluids up after bariatric surgery? Our online store stocks a protein water sample pack so you can try different flavours and find a variety that adds a flavour that works for you. Don’t forget to use the code NFWLS10 for 10% off. Check out our online store here.