We all know the holidays are stressful. Finances and family situations are often the cause. However another common cause is the risk of weight gain.
Our recent survey analyzed the responses of real bariatric surgery patients. Here’s what we found.
Key Findings
50% of bariatric surgery patients reported feeling “Significantly Less” and “Less” stress during the holidays, as compared to pre-surgery.
63.6% of respondents reported “Extremely Significant” weight loss after bariatric surgery
72.7% of patients saw a significant increase in mood and mental well being
Improved mobility was the most common physical benefit
Eating smaller portions was the most common strategy for keeping weight off during holiday meals
49.1% of patients allowed themselves a small treat in moderation during holiday meals
50% of Bariatric Patients Reported Feeling Less Stress During the Holidays
One of the main things we wanted to know was about how bariatric patients experienced holiday stress, particularly around weight gain and health.
50% reported feeling “Significantly Less” and “Less” stress.
31% reported feeling the same amount of stress.
16% reported feeling more stress.
4% reported feeling significantly more stress.
63.6% of Respondents Reported “Extremely Significant” Weight Loss after Bariatric Surgery
Out of all participants, 63.6% selected the “Extremely Significant” option when it came to how much weight loss they saw.
34.5% reported “Moderately Significant” weight loss, and 1.9% reported “Slightly Significant” weight loss.
72.7% of Patients Saw a Significant Increase in Mood and Mental Well Being
To better understand the impact of bariatric weight loss on the mental health of patients, we surveyed participants on changes in their mental well being.
72.7% reported a “Significant Improvement” while 25.5% saw a “Moderate Improvement”.
2.4% reported it staying the same.
Improved Mobility Was the Most Common Physical Benefit
16.7% of participants reported improved mobility, 16.4% reported improved energy, 16.1% reported improved confidence.
15.1% reported decreased risk of serious health issues, while another 15.1% reported better eating and exercise habits.
12.4% reported decreased risk of medical interventions. 8.4% reported improvement of comorbid conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
Eating Smaller Portions Was the Most Common Strategy for Keeping Weight Off During Holiday Meals
Amongst participants, the most popular method for preventing weight gain was eating smaller portions, followed by a focus on protein-based foods, avoiding foods that trigger overeating, “other”, and bringing their own food to gatherings.
49.1% of Patients Allowed Themselves a Small Treat in Moderation During Holiday Meals
Participants were asked how they handled food-related situations at holiday gatherings.
49.1% said that they allowed themselves a small treat in moderation. 32.7% reported avoiding certain foods completely.
16.4% reported carefully planning their plate ahead of time.
1.8% asked for help from a support person.
Methodology
Renew Bariatrics conducted a survey of post-bariatric surgery patients. Participants were asked a series of multiple choice questions based around bariatric surgery and holiday eating habits. Answers were compiled and analyzed to find the most common trends among bariatric patients during the holiday season.
