3 Weeks after WLS: Water Weight

Around three weeks after bariatric surgery, it's not unusual to hit your first weight plateau. This can be frustrating, but it's important to remember that it's a normal part of the process. During this initial phase, a significant portion of the weight you lose is due to shedding excess water. This could be the body's response to being in ketosis or the result of the body ridding itself of water retained due to health conditions like high blood pressure or edema.

As you enter ketosis, your body tends to expel water more rapidly than usual, leading to mild dehydration even if you're consuming enough fluids. Over time, as your body adapts, your hydration levels will stabilize, and the weight loss might stall. It's essential to maintain hydration during this period by drinking plenty of fluids and considering electrolyte supplementation. Be patient and avoid fixating on the scale; your body needs time to adjust.

3 Months after WLS: Establishing Healthy Routines

The first three months following surgery often witness the most rapid weight loss, but progress tends to slow after that, making weight plateaus more common. This period is an excellent opportunity to focus on developing healthy behaviors and routines as you become more accustomed to your pouch or sleeve.

Ask yourself:

• Am I consuming 60-80g of protein daily or more?
• Am I engaging in regular exercise, including both cardio and strength training?
• Do I have a consistent routine for taking my vitamins?
• Am I drinking enough water?
• Is there any aspect of my journey where I need support?
• Would maintaining a food and activity journal be beneficial for me?

6 Months after WLS: Gradual Weight Loss and Increased Appetite

Around six months post-surgery, you may begin to feel hungrier and able to consume more in one sitting, which is a normal part of the process. Weight loss may also slow down during this time, leading to frequent weight plateaus. Instead of a smooth downward curve, your weight loss graph may resemble a series of small "plateaus." This is partly due to natural changes in the effectiveness of the surgical mechanisms.

To maintain long-term health, it's essential to establish sustainable behaviors, such as:

• Finding a balance between healthy eating and occasional indulgences.
• Incorporating regular physical activity into your daily routine.
• Prioritizing adequate sleep.

12-24 Months After WLS: Focusing on Maintenance

Around 12 months post-surgery, many individuals reach their maintenance weight, with some continuing to lose weight for up to 18-24 months post-op. While your behaviors do influence your weight, several factors beyond your control also play a role in determining your final weight. The extent to which your body responds to the surgery is one of the most significant factors.

Three Key Takeaways:

1. Back to Basics: Returning to fundamental principles like protein intake, exercise, hydration, sleep, and more is always a wise approach. The BariBuddy app can be a valuable tool to help you stay on track.

2. Elevate Your Exercise Routine: General physical activity and increasing your daily steps are excellent starting points. However, incorporating activities that challenge your muscles, elevate your heart rate, and make you break a sweat can help break through plateaus.

3. Focus on Non-Scale Victories: Pay attention to how you feel, your energy levels, and the activities you can now enjoy that were impossible before your surgery. Plateaus are a natural part of the weight loss journey, and while there are strategies to overcome them, sometimes all it takes is time and patience.

In conclusion, experiencing weight plateaus after bariatric surgery is a common and expected part of the weight loss journey. By understanding why they occur and adopting the strategies mentioned above, you can navigate through these plateaus with confidence and continue progressing toward your health and wellness goals.