Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept Medicare or Medicaid?
We regret that Columbia Bariatric Associates does not currently participate with the MEDICARE or MEDICAID programs. However, you are welcome to attend one of our
seminars with a friend or family member if you wish to learn more about weight loss
surgery. You may reserve a seat simply by registering on line or calling our office for additional help.
What about baby food?
You can use purchased baby food if desired, but keep in mind that purchased baby food does not have any seasoning as a rule. You can still use salt, pepper, and spices in your food as long as you avoid added fat and sugar. Also, your food does not need to be pureed before eating, you just need to chew to that consistency before swallowing.
Can I use Ensure tm or Slim Fast tm as protein supplements?
These drinks are usually low in protein and too high in fat or carbohydrates to meet our program requirements for a protein supplement
What if I can’t find a protein supplement that I can drink?
There are thousands of protein supplements available on the market, so it is important to shop around through the many that are available. Contact your dietitian if you are having a problem tolerating a protein supplement. It may be a matter of flavor, type of protein (whey, soy, casein, egg white, combination), or consistency.
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What about food allergies?
There are usually protein supplements available that can be used if allergies are detected. As far as daily food choices, most of the allergens can be avoided without effecting good nutrition. Your dietitian can give you specific guidelines in this area.
I have diabetes. What about snacks between meals?
The main reason for between meal snacks in diabetes is the medication used to control blood glucose levels and possible low blood sugar levels between meals. Often, this medication can be changed or even discontinued once surgery has taken place, eliminating the need for any snacks.
What do I do if I’m hungry?
The first thing to do if hunger occurs is to drink fluid (unless less than 20 minutes after a meal). If this is unsuccessful, think about the content of the previous meal- did you get all of your protein? Did you eat a high fat, higher carbohydrate food that may have caused you to feel hunger faster? You can also think about where you are and what you are doing. Are you stimulated to eat because of the sight or smell of food? Is this a time where you may have used food to take care of an emotion in the past? Try keeping a food journal and find out what may be causing your hunger. You may just be ready to have a band adjustment.
What about swallowing medications?
Before your surgery, all medications will be reviewed and decisions will be made as to what medications will be continued, and the formulation that will be used to take the medications. Some medications may be crushed or are available in a chewable or liquid formulation.
What about all the supplements advertised for weight loss surgery?
Many multivitamin/mineral supplementations are advertised for weight loss surgery patients. They may have different formulations that are designed for easier digestion,
provide specific nutrients, etc. Because the LAP-BAND® surgery does not involve the small intestine, all vitamins and minerals will be digested the same as they were before surgery. Therefore there is no need for specific formulations. The most important aspect of the vitamin is the ability to get through the small opening of the pouch.
Why don’t I lose weight faster even though I’m eating so little?
The body does an amazing job of adapting. When we are eating less, our system slows down in order to keep us alive. This happens anytime we restrict our intake, whether we’ve had surgery or not. We also get hungrier due to hormones in our bodies that are trying to keep us alive. We can bypass these mechanisms by adjusting the LAP-BAND® to help us stay full, but the weight loss stays at the rate of 1-2 pounds a week
Remember, surgery is only a TOOL to help you lose weight and to adopt a healthier lifestyle. If you don’t follow the guidelines, you may not have the desired weight loss and may even gain weight over the years following surgery.
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