What Does it Mean to ‘Know Your Numbers?’
Posted on by drmonashThe first step toward improving your diet must begin with, “knowing your numbers.” The “numbers” that I am referring to …
Tag Archives: Nutrition
Nutritious Tips for Dining-Out
Posted on by drmonashIt is usually more difficult to control your calories when dining out. Here are a few tips to help keep …
Can I drink carbonated beverages following Bariatric surgery?
Posted on by drmonashYes, you may; however, I recommend that patients wait until the Regular Diet Stage to begin carbonated beverages. By …
The Deal with Vitamin D
Posted on by drmonashThe main function of Vitamin D is to regulate our blood levels of calcium and phosphorous. It helps to “mineralize” (add calcium crystals for strength) bone, so deficiency may lead to bone softening or thinning. Supplementation will prevent/treat osteomalacia in adults and rickets in children. Vitamin D may help to prevent high blood pressure, limit heart disease, enhance immune function, and may even protect against some forms of cancer, particularly pancreatic and colon. It is important to note that appropriate calcium and magnesium levels are necessary for Vitamin D therapy, and should be supplemented if needed.
What is the story on Vitamin B12?
Posted on by drmonashVitamin B12, or cyanocobalomin, serves an important function for the development of our red blood cells (which carry oxygen to our tissues) and the function of our nervous system. We obtain most of our Vitamin B12 from foods rich in protein, and the highest levels are found in mollusks, clams, liver, beef, and eggs. Also, the vast majority of multivitamins available will contain Vitamin B12. Deficiency may occur following Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery, and may lead to difficulty with balance or touch sensation, memory loss, fatigue, depression, and other symptoms.
Will I lose my hair following Bariatric Surgery?
Posted on by drmonashAlopecia, or hair loss, can occur from any type of rapid weight loss. As your body loses weight, it “starves” for protein. If you do not supply enough protein in your diet, your body will begin to “take” protein from natural storage sites – mostly, your hair, nails, and muscle.
Should I feel hungry after Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (LAGB) surgery?
Posted on by drmonashAt first, some weight loss surgery patients experience hunger that is similar to before the Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (LAGB) was placed. As your Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (LAGB) is “filled,” and you experience greater “restriction,” your body will get used to your decreased caloric intake. Within a few to several weeks from surgery, this hunger routinely vanishes. For Lapband surgery patients still experiencing significant hunger, I have found that it is commonly caused by eating too fast. The pouch fills too quickly, the restriction is inappropriate, and soon after eating your body craves additional calories. By slowing down considerably, you will maximize the beneficial effect of restriction and take in the appropriate amount of food. This will control your hunger.
