Our peak enquiry for the Allurion Balloon comes at around the middle of the year. By September and October, we have eager patients ready to begin their Allurion journey. There’s no big secret as to why this is the case: Summer. With the heat rising, there are many reasons patients want to shed some unwanted excess weight; from aesthetic reasons through to medical and comfort, it’s high season for the weight loss industry. 

As with all sustainable weight loss solutions, the Allurion Balloon requires healthy lifestyle and diet choices to ensure its short and long term success. With that, here are our tips for ensuring the Allurion balloon’s weight loss stays on track as summer, and so the festive season hits. 

Hydration

Keeping your hydration up is vital in summer anyway, to maintain general health, and stave away health issues like dehydration and even heat stroke. However, it is particularly important when on a weight loss journey because it supports the body’s optimal base-line health, and won’t confuse thirst for hunger and encourage overeating, as well as maintain healthy digestion between meals. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily (or around 2L of water).

Balanced Meals

Focus on balanced meals that include protein, fiber, healthy fats, and a variety of vegetables and fruits. Smaller, more frequent meals may work better with the gastric balloon. Here’s a sample daily meal plan:

Breakfast:

• Scrambled eggs with spinach and tomatoes
• A small serving of Greek yogurt with berries
• Herbal tea or water

Lunch:

• Grilled chicken or tofu salad with lots of vegetables and a vinaigrette dressing
• A piece of whole-grain bread or a small portion of brown rice

Snack:

• Sliced cucumber with hummus
• A small handful of mixed nuts

Dinner:

• Baked salmon or a vegetarian stir-fry with tofu
• Steamed broccoli and quinoa
• A side salad with a light dressing

Portion Control

The Allurion balloon’s function is to make you feel fuller, sooner. This tends to run hand in hand with consuming smaller portions of food with each meal (and making those meals as nutrient dense as possible to maintain a healthy intake). Portion control is vital to the success of the balloon, particularly for longer term success. Having smaller, more frequent meals will prevent discomfort and any risks of the balloon not being able to perform its function to the fullest. 

Mindful Eating

Paying careful attention to your eating habits is pivotal to the success of the Allurion Balloon. Eating slowly allows your body to signal fullness more effectively, preventing overeating, while thorough chewing not only initiates digestion in your mouth but also aids nutrient absorption in your gut. Savouring each bite enhances your overall dining experience and encourages mindful eating, leading to better portion control and a deeper appreciation for the flavours and textures of your food. These habits not only promote a healthier relationship with food but also support efficient digestion and long-term well-being.

Stay Active

It’s crucial to incorporate regular physical activity into your daily routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Even simple and low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or yoga can have a profound impact on your overall well-being, and ensure the success of the Allurion Balloon over summer. To keep your exercise regimen safe and suitable for your unique circumstances, consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalised exercise recommendations tailored to your specific condition, age, fitness level, and goals. 

Alcohol Moderation

During the festive season, it’s important to be mindful of your alcohol consumption habits. While it’s perfectly fine to enjoy a drink or two in a social setting, it’s crucial to do so in moderation, especially if you’ve recently undergone a gastric balloon procedure. Excessive alcohol consumption can have adverse effects on your stomach lining. It has the potential to irritate the delicate gastric lining, which could lead to discomfort, digestive issues, or even more serious complications. 

Consider opting for lower-alcohol or non-alcoholic beverages to ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable festive experience without compromising your health. Additionally, consulting with your healthcare provider or nutritionist for personalised dietary recommendations during this time can be particularly beneficial to help you make informed choices.

The Allurion Gastric Balloon is a temporary aid in weight loss. It’s essential to develop healthy eating habits and lifestyle changes that you can sustain even after the balloon is removed, especially over the holiday period. Consult your healthcare provider regularly to track your progress and make necessary adjustments to your diet plan.