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My #1 tip for eating after placement of the Lap Band

In my job as an Aftercare Manager at True Results, I help patients with the gastric band to learn the best ways to eat so they’ll lose the weight and keep it off for life. To kick off my participation on this blog, I want to share one of my favorite tips.

Are you ready?  Here it is.

Avoid eating any calories you can’t pick up with a fork.

Your fork is your best friend because the Lap Band was made to help you control taking in solid foods, not liquids. Many liquid-based foods – like soup and yogurt – just aren’t substantial enough to keep you satiated. Plus, liquid often has empty calories and doesn’t have the protein you need for energy and to keep you satisfied. You’ll be hungry again fast, and the next thing you know you’ll be eating again. 

Bottom line: if you stick to solids, you’ll lose the weight. And you’ll keep it off.

There is one exception to my fork rule: protein shakes:

There are some excellent protein shakes out there in all kinds of flavors, and they will help you feel satiated. (Note and full disclosure: True Results also sells its own protein shakes.) But if you still feel hungry within 4-5 hours after drinking your shakes, then replace your shake with a meal.

My goal on this blog is to bring you lots of good tips just like these that I share with my patients in the True Results TrueCare after-care program. The key to success with the gastric band is committing to lifelong healthy habits. Do you have questions or anything you’d like me to write about specifically?

Great! Please leave your comments below. I’m looking forward to helping you on your weight-loss journey.

And, don’t forget to use your fork!

- Nives Champion

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