How to Increase Water Intake After Weight Loss Surgery: Tips from a Bariatric Nurse Specialist
Stay Hydrated After Weight Loss Surgery: Tips and Tricks from a Bariatric Nurse Specialist
Hi everyone, it’s Lauren Peat here, your Bariatric Nurse Specialist. Staying hydrated is one of the most important habits to maintain after weight loss surgery. It might seem simple, but getting in enough water every day is key to your overall health and recovery. If you’re like many people who have had bariatric surgery, you might find drinking water more challenging than before. I’ve got a few tips and tricks that can help you reach that goal of two litres a day without feeling like it’s a chore.
Why Water Intake After Weight Loss Surgery is Important
After weight loss surgery, your body needs water more than ever. It helps with digestion, flushes out toxins, and supports your kidneys and skin. Staying hydrated also prevents constipation, a common side effect after surgery. Plus, drinking water can help with those pesky hunger signals that might actually be thirst in disguise. Two litres of water a day is a good goal to aim for, but how can you make sure you’re getting there?
Tips and Tricks to Boost Your Water Intake After Weight Loss Surgery
1. Sip, Don’t Gulp
After surgery, your stomach can only hold a small amount at a time. If you try to drink large quantities quickly, you’ll likely feel uncomfortable or even nauseous. The trick is to sip regularly throughout the day. Keep a water bottle nearby and take small sips whenever you can. Over time, these little sips add up to your daily goal.
2. Set a Schedule
If you’re someone who forgets to drink, setting reminders can be a lifesaver. Schedule times during the day to take a few sips. You could set a reminder on your phone every hour, or pair your water-drinking habit with another daily task, like having a sip after brushing your teeth, or between meals.
3. Make It Tasty
Plain water can get boring, so why not jazz it up a bit? Add slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint to your water to give it a bit of flavour. You could even try herbal teas (just make sure they’re decaf!) to change things up. A little variety can make it easier to reach your two-litre goal.
4. Track Your Water Intake After Weight Loss Surgery
If you’re aiming for two litres a day, it can be motivating to track how much you’re actually drinking. You can use a water-tracking app, or simply write it down on a piece of paper or a note in your phone. Seeing your progress throughout the day can be really encouraging!
5. Use a Straw (If it Works for You)
Some people find it easier to drink through a straw after surgery, as it allows you to take smaller, more controlled sips. However, this can be a personal preference, so give it a try and see how you feel.
6. Drink Between Meals
After surgery, it’s recommended to avoid drinking too much with meals, as it can fill you up quickly and prevent you from getting in your necessary nutrients. Try to have most of your fluids between meals instead, leaving at least 30 minutes before and after eating to focus on your hydration.
7. Try Different Temperatures
If cold water doesn’t sit well with you, try room temperature or warm water instead. Many people find that a cup of warm herbal tea goes down more easily, especially in the colder months. Experiment with different temperatures to find what’s most comfortable for you.
8. Keep Water Visible
It’s easy to forget about drinking water when it’s out of sight. Keep a water bottle on your desk, in your bag, or in the car so you always have access. Making water visible and easy to reach is a small change that can make a big difference.
It’s All About Building the Habit
It might take time to get used to drinking two litres of water a day, but with small, consistent changes, it’ll soon become part of your routine. Your body will thank you for it—after all, hydration is one of the foundations of good health, especially post-surgery.
If you’re struggling with water intake or have any questions about hydration after bariatric surgery, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help guide you through your journey.
Stay hydrated!
