Weight loss surgery isn’t an overnight solution, so having the proper tools is critical for long-term success. Your new diet and lifestyle may feel overwhelming at first, but mastering the art of meal prep is a lot easier than you may think. Equipping your kitchen with the following tools can help you plan and prep your meals like a pro:
- Liquid and solid measuring cups. While both products measure the same amount by volume, liquid measuring cups make it easier to measure liquids without spilling. Liquid measuring cups usually have a spout and handle with varying measurements marked off on the sides. Solid measuring cups hold the exact amount on their label, and you can level off the top for a precise measurement. Every calorie counts in your new bariatric diet, and accurate measuring tools can eliminate guesswork.
- Food scale. Food scales are another invaluable kitchen tool for accurate portion sizes. It’s fine to eyeball your portion sizes when you’re at an event or get together, but you’ll want something with better accuracy for day-to-day life. A food scale is particularly useful when measuring meats, and it can help ensure you’re meeting your protein needs.
- Blender. In the immediate weeks after surgery, you will be on a liquid diet. The next diet phase is purees, and a blender can help with both. Many soups contain chunks that a blender can break down, and it’s a great way to make protein shakes or smoothies.
- Blender Bottle. You may not always have the time to break out the blender to make your protein shakes. Having a blender bottle is great for making protein shakes while on the go. The bottle comes with a metal ball-shaped whisk that mixes up protein powders and smaller ingredients to eliminate clumps and blend your protein powder as you shake the bottle.
- Portion-sized food storage containers. Storing your food in pre-portioned containers can help you avoid overeating. Some even come with dividers so you can portion for protein, veggies, and other foods within one container. Having these containers on hand also simplifies meal prep if you want to make your meals in advance.
- Crockpot. Crockpots are excellent options when you don’t feel like cooking or if you know you’re going to be short on time. Tossing your meal in the crockpot and walking away is highly convenient, but it has another benefit as well. Crockpots tenderize the meat, which makes it much easier for your new anatomy to digest. Adequate protein intake is essential after weight loss surgery to prevent muscle wasting. Protein also supports your metabolism and helps boost your immune system.
- Ramekins. These porcelain souffle dishes are perfectly portioned for bariatric patients. They’re great for soups when you’re in the liquid phase of your diet, and they help keep your portion sizes in check. They’re also highly convenient as they can go in the dishwasher, microwave, oven, and freezer. You can bake your food directly in them and then store any leftovers in the freezer.
- Fitness watch. Fitness trackers can get pricey depending on the features, but there are several affordable options on the market. These watches can track your calorie burn from exercise, monitor your water intake, provide health and fitness reminders, and much more, depending on the product. Whether you’re having a hard time drinking enough water or you aren’t sure how many calories you’re burning, fitness watches can provide alerts and information to demystify your weight loss journey.
Long-term weight loss success hinges on how well you adhere to the lifestyle changes your doctor recommends. You can simplify the process by investing in the right tools to help you along the way. Contact us to learn more about weight loss surgery and how it can improve your health and wellness.
