My 10 Favorite Snacks After Having Gastric Sleeve Surgery

My name is James, I've been a member of the American Bariatrics Support Group since about a week before my Gastric Sleeve surgery 6 years ago. In that time I've lost almost 200 pounds. I've come close to my goal weight and have been yo-yo-ing around my current weight for the last year. Overall I'm really happy with my decision to undergo the sleeve surgery.

In my 6 year post-op life I've learned a lot about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and making smart food choices. Here are some of my favorite bariatric-friendly snacks that have helped me stay on track:

1. Roasted Chickpeas: These protein-packed legumes are a satisfying and crunchy snack. I like to season them with a blend of spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder for added flavor.
2. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers dipped in hummus make for a nutritious and filling snack. The fiber from the vegetables and the protein in the hummus help keep me feeling full.
3. Greek Yogurt with Berries: Greek yogurt is a great source of protein, and I love to mix it with fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries for a sweet and tangy treat.
4. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Eggs are a fantastic source of protein, and I find that hard-boiled eggs are a convenient and easy snack to grab on the go. I like to sprinkle them with a little bit of salt and pepper for added flavor.
5. Cottage Cheese with Pineapple: Cottage cheese is another excellent source of protein, and I enjoy mixing it with a small serving of pineapple chunks for a sweet and creamy snack.
6. Edamame: These young soybeans are a great source of protein and fiber. I like to steam them and sprinkle them with a little bit of sea salt for a tasty and satisfying snack.
7. Baked Apple Chips: Apples are a great source of fiber, and I love making my own baked apple chips at home. I simply slice apples thinly, sprinkle them with cinnamon, and bake them in the oven until they're crispy.
8. Turkey Roll-Ups: I like to roll up thin slices of turkey with a small amount of low-fat cheese and a few spinach leaves for a protein-packed snack that's easy to make and satisfying.
9. Homemade Protein Bars: I enjoy making my own protein bars at home using ingredients like oats, protein powder (usually the vanilla Bariatric Advantage shake), nut butter, and dried fruit. This way, I can control the ingredients and ensure they're bariatric-friendly.
10. Sugar-Free Jell-O: Sometimes, I crave something sweet, and sugar-free Jell-O is a great option. I like to mix it with a little bit of whipped cream for a light and refreshing treat.

These are the top 10 snacks have worked well for me since having my gastric sleeve surgery, but everyone's needs are different. I'd be happy to write up a few more tidbits that I've learned in my post-surgery bariatric life, so stay tuned!