At MyLife Bariatrics, we understand that embarking on a weight loss journey is as much about achieving initial success as it’s about maintaining weight loss for the long term.

Our boutique surgical practice, specializing in sleeve gastrectomy performed in an out-of-hospital setting, is designed to help patients achieve the weight loss they’ve been striving for. However, sustaining this success is a challenge many face, even after a surgical approach.

A well-regarded study by Phelan et al., published in Obesity (2020), sheds valuable light on the strategies that differentiate individuals who maintain long-term weight loss from those who struggle to keep the weight off. With 85% of surgical patients maintaining their weight loss in long-term studies, incorporating evidence-based strategies like those identified in this study can further enhance outcomes.

Here’s how you can harness the insights from this groundbreaking research to sustain your weight loss success, with the support of our dedicated team of surgeons, dietitians, and partners at HOW Clinic.

Key Findings from the Phelan et al. Study

The study explored the habits of 4,786 long-term weight loss maintainers (WLMs) in the Weight Watchers (WW) program compared to 528 weight-stable individuals with obesity. Those successful with maintaining weight loss had lost an average of 24.7 kg (23.8% of their starting body weight) and kept the weight off for an average of 3.3 years. By examining their behavioural and psychological strategies, the study identified key factors that contributed to long-term success:

1. Healthy Dietary Choices

The study found that consistently making healthy food choices was the most critical factor in maintaining weight loss. Weight loss maintainers kept low-calorie foods accessible, chose lower-calorie options, and incorporated more fruits and vegetables into their diet. 

MyLife Tip: Our dietitians work closely with patients to develop tailored, high-protein, low-calorie meal plans that are not only sustainable but also enjoyable. We’ll teach you strategies like portion control, and mindful eating to help you stay on track.

2. Self-Monitoring

Weight Loss Maintainers regularly tracked their food intake and weight, often using commercial apps or simple journals. This practice was associated with increased awareness and accountability, allowing for early course corrections when needed.

MyLife Tip: Our team at MyLife Bariatrics recommends tools and techniques to make self-monitoring easier. Whether it’s through mobile apps or guided journaling, our dietitians ensure that you have the resources to succeed. 

3. Habit Strength

Strong habits for healthy eating and routine behaviours were hallmarks of successful maintainers. Weight loss maintainers described their healthy eating practices as automatic and integrated into their daily lives. This automaticity reduced the perceived effort of maintaining weight loss over time.

MyLife Tip: Building habits starts small. Whether it’s keeping healthy snacks in your kitchen or consistently planning your meals, our surgeons and dietitians emphasize creating habits that feel second nature.

4. Psychological Coping Strategies

When faced with setbacks, weight loss maintainers leaned on psychological coping mechanisms, such as reflecting on past successes and maintaining a positive outlook. This resilience was critical in getting back on track after lapses.

MyLife Tip: Our team at MyLife is always ready to guide you through building a positive mindset and resilience strategies.

5. Willingness to Ignore Food Cravings

Successful weight loss maintainers demonstrated a significant ability to manage cravings. They focused on delaying gratification and ignoring urges rather than trying to suppress or eliminate them.

MyLife Tip: Cravings are normal, but they don’t have to derail your progress. Our team helps patients learn evidence-based techniques to navigate cravings without guilt.

Maintaining Weight Loss: Why It Is Critical After Sleeve Gastrectomy

At MyLife Bariatrics, we celebrate your initial weight loss success but recognize that maintenance requires ongoing effort. Studies show that the majority of sleeve gastrectomy patients maintain their weight loss long-term, yet challenges can arise. Weight regain can be tied to the absence of sustainable habits and psychological strategies, among a myriad of other reasons.

The findings of the Phelan et al. study align perfectly with the aftercare principles we believe in at MyLife Bariatrics. Our approach to maintaining weight loss combines nutritional guidance, behavioural support, and routine monitoring to ensure your success.

Key Takeaways for Long-Term Success

1. Prioritize Dietary Choices: Keep nutritious, low-calorie options accessible and build meals around lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains.
2. Commit to Self-Monitoring: Regularly track your food intake and weight to stay aware of your progress.
3. Build Sustainable Habits: Integrate healthy behaviours into your daily life until they become automatic.
4. Develop Coping Mechanisms: Focus on progress, not perfection. Learn to navigate setbacks with a positive attitude.
5. Seek Professional Support: You don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

A Final Word: Your Success, Our Commitment

Maintaining weight loss is a journey, not a destination. At MyLife Bariatrics, we’re not just about helping you lose weight—we’re about helping you keep it off for the long haul. By incorporating the strategies highlighted in the Phelan et al. study, that endeavour can truly become a reality.

If you’re ready to take the next step or need support in maintaining your weight loss success, our surgeons, dietitians, and partners at HOW Clinic are here to help. Reach out today and let’s make long-term success your reality.

By integrating the evidence-based strategies from this study into your daily routine, you’re not just investing in weight loss—you’re investing in a healthier, happier future. Let MyLife Bariatrics be part of your journey every step of the way. Contact us to learn more. 

You can also visit mylifebariatrics.com and follow us on Instagram or Facebook.