The significance of special care for bones following weight loss surgery
Losing weight, especially for those battling obesity, can be a challenging journey. But sometimes, weight loss surgeries, also known as bariatric surgery, offer a solution. These procedures not only help shed pounds but also bring significant metabolic benefits, like reducing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
However, there's a catch. Bariatric surgery can potentially harm bone health by causing a loss of bone mineral density (BMD), making bones more fragile and prone to fractures.
Fortunately, research provides a silver lining. A structured exercise program might be the key to avoiding this setback. A study in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research demonstrated that patients who engaged in high-impact, balance, and resistance exercises three times a week maintained higher bone mineral density (BMD) at crucial areas like the lumbar spine, forearm, and femoral neck than those who didn't exercise.
Exercise before and after weight loss surgery is essential. Increasing your fitness levels before the procedure can lead to fewer complications, and following surgery, stick to your doctor's postoperative guidelines. These typically involve taking it easy during the first few weeks with gentle exercises like flexibility exercises and deep breathing. Once your surgeon gives the green light, you can gradually incorporate low-impact exercises like walking or swimming into your routine.
It's also crucial to ensure you're getting enough vitamin D following surgery. Research suggests that patients undergoing bariatric surgery during winter months or in Northern regions may experience more complications, pointing to the importance of sufficient vitamin D levels for recovery.
Remember, exercise isn't just about weight loss. It's about overall health, well-being, and feeling great. Embrace the benefits that regular physical activity offers and consider talking to your healthcare provider about starting an exercise program tailored to your needs and recovery stage.
Source: Exercise may protect bone health after weight loss surgery - EurekAlert!
- Engaging in a structured exercise program that includes high-impact, balance, and resistance exercises three times a week can help maintain higher bone mineral density (BMD) after weight loss surgeries.
- Fitness levels before weight loss surgery can lead to fewer complications, while following surgery, sticking to the doctor's postoperative guidelines is essential.
- Research highlights the importance of sufficient vitamin D levels for recovery following bariatric surgery, especially for patients undergoing the procedure during winter months or in Northern regions.
- Exercise is not only useful for weight management, but it also promotes overall health, well-being, and feelings of greatness.
- To ensure optimal health and well-being after weight loss surgeries, consider discussing an exercise program tailored to your needs and recovery stage with your healthcare provider.
