Hello Gorgeous! So, you've passed the bariatric surgery milestone and are re-entering the world of family gatherings, cocktail parties, and casual hangouts. The air is filled with the aroma of delicious cuisine and the sound of glasses clinking. As you navigate life after surgery, you no longer have to worry as much about whether the beautiful black dress still fits or whether the chair at the restaurant is made of steel, but there are other concerns on the horizon.

Here is a list of 30 tips and techniques to make your socializing experience easier, more enjoyable, and healthier; let's get started!

1. Plan Forward

Have a social event approaching? Review the menu online and make your selections before leaving. Plan, plan, plan!

2. Small Plates

Your new besties are smaller dishes! They will help you control your portion sizes without feeling deprived.

3. Bring Your Own

Pack a few protein-rich treats if you are traveling to an area with limited food options. Consider it a healthful emergency kit!

4. Stay hydrated

To remain hydrated, drink water, herbal teas, or sugar-free beverages. It will also assist in preventing "hunger" symptoms.

5. The 20-Minute Rule

Chew carefully. Allow at least 20 minutes for your stomach to send the "I'm full" signal to your brain.

6. Recruit a Friend

Recruit a friend or relative who understands your requirements. Share your food struggles and triumphs with one another!

7. The Protein Priority Rule

First, consume lean protein. It will aid in appetite control and keep you satisfied for longer.

8. Zero-calorie fun

Beverages with zero calories, such as effervescent water with a slice of lemon, are enjoyable and guilt-free.

9. Serve as Host

When you're the host, you control the menu. It is the most effective strategy for a wholesome evening!

10. Non-Food Reward

Enjoy dancing, board games, party games? Make that your reward for the evening, engage in these rather than a dessert.

11. Snack Wisely

Choose vegetable skewers and Greek yogurt dips over calorie-laden snacks.

12. Fake Alcohol

Select mocktails instead of cocktails. You get an elegant glass with no calories!

13. Learn to Decline Politely

Learn how to say "No, thank you" without feeling regretful.

14. Mindfulness Is Crucial

Chew deliberately and attempt not to become engrossed in the conversation. Appreciate each taste. The greater your awareness, the less you will consume.

15. Exercise

Move about, dance, get up and go for a walk, greet acquaintances, and rearrange tables. You may choose social events that involve physical activity

16. Compile a list of essentials

Maintain a list of delectable and surgery-friendly foods. Avoiding dumping is not the time to attempt something new.

17. Mastering the Menu

Become an expert at scanning menus before entering a restaurant or attending a celebration, and always select healthier options.

18. Separate and Conquer

Share your plate with another person. You will both enjoy the cuisine and share the calories!

19. Avoid the Bread Basket

Bread is simple to consume while waiting for a meal. Simply don't!

20. Nibble, but Don't Gobble

Take modest nibbles and pause to have a conversation. This is not a contest!

21. Enjoy the Company

Remember that you are there as much for the people as for the cuisine. Enjoy the discussions!

22. Avoid Skipping Meals

Never arrive hungry. You are setting yourself up for failure!

23. Conduct a Self-Examination

Ask yourself frequently, "Am I full yet?" You could be astonished by the response.

24. Cook for Yourself

If you are invited to a party, offer to bring a dish. This ensures the availability of at least one dependable choice.

25. Master Portion Control

Utilise measuring containers at home to determine a reasonable portion size.

26. Understand Your Triggers

Some cuisines may be more tempting than others. Identify them and maintain a safe distance.

27. Capture and Track

Take photos of your meals to keep track of what you eat.

28. Celebrate the Little Victories

Have you attended a social event where you adhered to your diet? Commemorate it!

29. Learn from Your Errors

Have you slipped up? No big deal. Learn and move on.

30. Communicate with Your Surgeon

Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice when in doubt.

Hope you find one or two tips to help your journey. Please let us know how you get on.

If you are prepared to step up your post-bariatric lifestyle and enjoyed reading this article, I would like to invite you to Join our mailing list to keep up to date with our blogs.

Remain fierce and fabulous

Your Bariatric Evangelist