Bariatric Friendly Ways to Celebrate this Labor Day

We celebrate Labor Day as the unofficial end of summer. Since it will continue to be as hot as molten lava for another few months here in South Florida, that label is purely symbolic. But, summer break is now over and most schools are back in session. As we celebrate the “end” of summer, we also take the Labor Day holiday to celebrate laborers. Labor Day has been designated as a day to celebrate the contributions the American worker has made toward the strength, prosperity, and well being of the country for over a hundred years.

In keeping with the theme of strength, prosperity, and well being, the staff at Dr. Shillingford’s office would like our gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and lap band patients to show their strength and pursue their quest for well being on Labor Day by adhering to their post-op bariatric diet and exercise habits that have contributed to their newfound weight loss and overall health. That means choosing their meals (and carbs) wisely, keeping their calories within their limit, not overeating, focusing on their proteins, not drinking their calories, staying hydrated, and fitting in some physical activity.

It is important to remember proper serving sizes and not overstuff yourself, which can lead to complications. Chew your food thoroughly. Separate your food and fluids. Stop eating when you begin to feel full. Avoid carbonated and alcoholic beverages. Engage in some exercise.

To help our gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and gastric band patients celebrate Labor Day, we’ve compiled a list of high protein food choices that could be good or easily adapted to meet the needs of our bariatric patients.

However you choose to celebrate, be safe, be responsible, and have fun! You’ve earned it.

Check out these recipes for ideas for your Labor Day celebration:

• Bunless Burgers
• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
• Ham Roll Ups
• Caprese Salad with Avocado
• Bacon, Tomato, and Avocado Deviled Eggs
• Fish Skewers

The above ideas are offered by Dr. Shillingford, MD, PA, a board certified general surgeon specializing in advanced laparoscopic and obesity surgery. Dr. Shillingford’s sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and gastric band patients are often looking for ways to support their healthy eating habits, especially on special occasions. Although Dr. Shillingford’s Boca Raton office serves bariatric surgery patients from all over Florida, including Miami, Delray Beach, Coral Springs, Wellington, and Port Ste. Lucie, Dr. Shillingford is primarily focusing on telehealth pre- and post-op appointments at this time due to COVID.