Is an apple just an apple? And a cookie just a cookie? It depends on who you ask. But if you ask our registered dieticians and nutritionists, the answer is no.
Calories matter for sure but the foods those calories come from matter, too. As do the amount of sugar, fiber and whether it is a whole food or is processed. It can be confusing to know what to eat and what to pass on when trying to lose weight, but a registered dietician can help in a BIG way.
Whether you need to lose a few pounds or you need to lose a significant amount of weight, a personalized diet plan formulated by a registered dietician forms the backbone that supports your weight loss goals. The team at Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas provides all the help and support you could need, beginning with a highly individualized diet plan designed to control calories, then giving you the information you need to create your own healthy plan for long-term maintenance of your weight.
How can a registered dietician help me?
While calorie restriction is important to weight loss, a diet plan ensures you’ll get adequate nutrition while staying within daily calorie goals and losing weight. Diet plans typically include a specific menu, describing what to eat at each meal and snack. They often include lists of allowed foods or those you should avoid so that you can make your own choices based on your own preferences and tastes. However, at Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas, each diet plan always individualized to support your dietary and health needs.
No matter how much weight you need to lose, our registered dietitians work closely with you to:
- Discern your weight loss goals
- Determine calorie guidelines
- Develop a diet plan
- Define small, comfortable steps for success
They also help you identify what triggers your unhealthy eating behaviors and devise a plan to respond appropriately and with healthier options.
Do I still have to diet if I’m having bariatric surgery?
Yes and for many good reasons. When you choose bariatric surgery, you must also commit to following a diet and exercise plan. Why? Surgery makes a significant difference, but the only way you’ll maintain weight loss long-term is by following a diet plan.
In the months before and after surgery, a custom diet plan, as well as focused time with our registered dietitian, are essential so that you can begin to practice portion control and foods you’ll need to avoid.
Before surgery – Losing some of the weight before your bariatric surgery accomplishes two important things. First, you’ll lose fat around your abdomen and liver, which keeps you safer during surgery. Secondly, it sets the stage for the lifestyle changes needed to lose weight and sustain a healthy weight for a lifetime.
After surgery – Your digestive tract will need time to heal after surgery, so you’ll stay on a liquid diet for a few days. When Dr. Ayoola determines you’re ready, you’ll move to pureed foods for a few weeks before adding soft foods. Most people begin to eat solid foods about two months after surgery.
My diet, my life. Success for a lifetime
Eventually, your post-bariatric diet plan will be replaced with your personal eating habits and menu planning. It can be scary to venture back out on your own. But remember, we are here to help you every step of the way. The registered dieticians at Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas offer these tips:
- Portion size: measure portions rather than eye-balling them
- Stay hydrated: water hydrates you well, is an essential nutrient and helps you lose weight
- Sugar intake: it’s important to avoid sugar after weight loss surgery
- Focus on nutrients: protein, fats, carbs, vitamins and minerals must be consumed at certain levels
Ready to create a diet plan that produces real results? Schedule your consultation with Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas today!
