4 quick ways to boost your energy levels after sleeve gastrectomy

Feeling tired? Foggy? Struggling to make it easily through the day since your sleeve? Try these quick tips to boost energy levels and make life a little easier.

1. Are you dehydrated?

The quickest thing to check first is your hydration. Symptoms of dehydration include feeling foggy, tired, and lethargic and a lack of concentration. If this sounds like you, check your fluid levels. How much have you drunk today? What colour is your pee? If you think you might be dehydrated sip sip sip! And if you struggle to drink water, try these tips for increasing your fluid intake here.

2. Do you have a nutrient deficiency?

Some nutrient deficiencies, namely iron and B12, can leave you exhausted due to anaemia! Anaemia means you don’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen around your body, so you tire quickly. After a sleeve you should have your bloods tested at least yearly (and more often in the first year). If it’s been a while, visit the GP for a blood test and make sure you’re taking your supplements every day – this is a lifelong commitment after a sleeve. If you’re not sure what you should be taking, read this post.

3. Are you sleeping well?

Are you sleeping enough? Sleep is not only important for making us feel rested but also for maximising weight loss and supporting our immune system among other things. If you’re not sleeping well or sleeping enough, you’ll feel tired, your appetite will increase and it’ll be more difficult to lose weight or to keep it off than it needs to be. Prioritise sleep if you can. If you’re struggling, have a look at these tips from The Sleep Foundation.

4. Are you eating regularly?

Sometimes after a sleeve when your appetite is reduced, you might forget to eat. However, skipping meals can make you feel tired and lethargic. Instead, make sure you are eating three meals a day and that those meals are good quality so you are getting the nutrients you need. Aim for protein and vegies and add in some whole grains if you feel you need an energy boost. If you’re not sure what or when you should be eating now you have a sleeve, check out this post.