Traveling after Weight Loss Surgery

Traveling is something that many of us will do at some point in our lives. When I first had weight loss surgery, I was traveling a lot for work. Do you know what one of the best feelings in the world is? It’s when you can fit into an airplane seat without a seatbelt extender! As an overweight person, traveling has probably always given you some sort of anxiety. It does not need to be that way any longer. To make sure you don’t have anxiety while traveling, there are some things you will need to keep in mind.

Whether you are flying or driving, there are things you need to remember to pack to keep yourself healthy after weight loss surgery. Your body is going through a significant change, and that doesn’t change just because you are traveling. You must try your best to stay on the same routine that you follow every day. So, here are a few tips to help keep you on track while you are traveling.

1. Keep healthy snacks around you at all times. Whether you are in an airport or stopping at a gas station, there are going to be so many trigger foods around you. It will be hard for you to turn unhealthy snacks down. It is important that you keep snacks on you so you aren’t tempted to grab something else. I like keeping protein bars and jerky on me when I am traveling. They are both quick, easy and high protein foods that fill me up. Keep control and remember that food does not control you!
2. Bring your vitamins! As bariatric patients, we have to watch out for vitamin deficiencies. You more than likely have a good routine going at home where you take your vitamins in the morning and/or at night. When you are traveling, don’t forget to bring them with you. You will need to be careful about deficiencies even more since you will be traveling and eating differently than usual. There are special containers you can buy to keep track of your vitamins every day. Having them separated and ready to go will help you remember to take them while you are on the road.
3. Don’t forget protein. As weight loss surgery patients, protein is one of the most important goals you need to achieve every day. When you are traveling, make sure you choose healthy protein options. It is also helpful if you bring a protein shake with you. There are so many options available. I especially like the packets you can take with you on the plane where you can add water later.
4. Drink water! When you are traveling, you are more likely to get dehydrated. It is even worse being a bariatric patient traveling. We have water goals after surgery for a reason. Use an app on your phone to keep track of how much water you are consuming. Try to drink the same amount that you do at home.
5. Keep medicines handy. For me personally, I have horrible acid reflux and IBS issues. I have forgotten these medications before and trust me, it was not a fun experience. Every time I travel now, I make sure I always have the necessary medications.

As a bariatric patient, it is so important that you are prepared for traveling. Remember, you are changing your life and becoming a healthier version of you. Don’t let traveling get you off track. Keep working hard and stay focused. You got this!