If you’ve had weight loss surgery, hydration is the key to recovery and weight loss. Because gastric bypass, duodenal switch and gastric sleeve surgeries limit the capacity of the stomach, it can be difficult to get the recommended 64 ounces of water each day. In fact, dehydration is a top reason that patients are re-admitted to the hospital after weight loss surgery. If you have had weight loss surgery, here are some tips to help you stay hydrated.
- Don’t drink water with meals. If you do, you could fill up too quickly and not get the nutrients you need from eating. Drink water about 30 minutes after eating. As for eating, be sure to read our blog on Creating a Nutritious Wight Loss Surgery Diet Menu.
- Start drinking water as soon as you wake up. You cannot “catch up” on your water later in the day. It simply does not work like that.
- Because of you limited stomach capacity, never take big gulps. Bring your water with you in the car, to work, etc. and sip on it all day.
- Most bariatric surgeons recommend 64 ounces of water daily. Measure your fluids and keep track to make sure you get what you need.
- Caffeine dehydrates you, so it does not count toward your daily fluid intake. Avoid it as much as possible. A little caffeine, such as 200 MG, is okay if you are getting your daily intake of water.
- Carbonation can cause stomach discomfort, so we recommend avoiding carbonated drinks until after 6 weeks post op.
- Flavor your water with lemon, lime or orange. Crystal Light, decaffeinated tea and coffee, Vitamin Water Zero, Gatorade Zero, Propel and other zero-calorie, decaf and non-carbonated fluids are allowed.
- Use your smartphone. Apps, such as the HY hydration timer or Water Drink Reminder, remind you when to take a sip of water. The Hidrate Spark Smart Bottle also can help you easily track your daily water intake.