The gastric balloon is one of the most recent development in weight loss. It is a non-surgical approach that is ideal for people who are overweight, but may not qualify for or want a permanent procedure. If you are considering the gastric balloon, there are changes you need to make to gain the most benefit from the procedure.

Prepare Before The Procedure

Your doctor will give you post-procedure instructions about how you might feel and what is acceptable to eat, especially in the days following the procedure. Ideally, you should prepare for the experience by having the appropriate foods available at home and throwing away anything that is tempting. Once you can eat solids, you will need soft foods that are easy to digest, since nausea is expected for the first few days.

Popsicles, flavored gelatin, and yogurt are usually well tolerated. Since achieving your ideal protein intake can be difficult after the procedure, Greek yogurt is a good option. Taking multivitamins may be important to maintain your nutrient levels since you cannot eat as much after the procedure. You should look for multivitamins that are smaller in size than your typical multivitamin pill. Gummy vitamins are a good alternative because they are smaller and may be less likely to contribute to stomach upset or make you feel full.

Develop An Exercise Plan

Ideally, you should start engaging in regular exercise before any bariatric procedure. Unfortunately, some people who have surgical and non-surgical procedures do not engage in regular exercise or fail to maintain their exercise regimen. Although the procedure itself will help you lose weight, exercise will help you lose weight faster and you will be more likely to keep the pounds off after the balloon is taken out if you establish an exercise regimen. Any light cardio is a good way to start and you will likely find that you can incorporate more exercise for longer periods as you lose weight. Once your doctor has cleared you to workout vigorously, you should start doing resistant training or weightlifting. Adding muscle will minimize any excess skin you may develop.

Maintain Follow-Up Care

You will likely have some follow-up visits with your doctor once the balloon is removed, but maintaining your weight loss indefinitely might require additional help. When possible, you should develop a good relationship with a nutritionist and see them regularly in the months and years after the balloon is removed. Simply the act of maintaining nutritionist appointments can help you stay focused on the importance of minimizing or avoiding weight regain. You and your nutritionist can make adjustments to your suggested diet and exercise plan if you notice the pounds are creeping back on. It is much easier to tackle the problem when it is only a few pounds than when weight regain has spiraled out of control.

The gastric balloon procedure expands the options for weight loss procedures, especially for people who do not qualify for bariatric surgery. As with any weight loss option, it is only one part of an effective weight loss strategy. For more information on non-surgical weight loss options, talk to your doctor today.