The holidays are here, and if you’re someone who has undergone bariatric surgery, you might notice friends and family struggling to find the perfect gift for you. This guide highlights holiday gifts that are not only thoughtful but also supportive of your health and wellness during your bariatric journey.
Share this list with your loved ones so they can pick gifts that truly make a difference!
1. Portion8 Starter Kit
The Portion8 Starter Kit makes mealtime easier and helps you stay on track with proper nutrition. It’s designed for bariatric patients to balance protein, fiber, carbs, and fats in portions that fit your new stomach size.
The kit includes:
- Portion8 plate
- Three sizers
- Spork and knife set
- Portion8 cookbook
- Insulated tote and ice pack for on-the-go meals
If you prefer a simpler solution, BentGO boxes are structured to follow the 50-30-20 rule, keeping meals balanced with minimal effort.
- Iteryn Bento Adults Lunch Box, Stackable Bento Box, 3-In-1 Compartment
- Bentgo Glass All-in-One
- 5 Compartment Lunch Box Containers
Why it’s helpful: Makes portion control easy, encourages balanced nutrition, and supports a smoother transition during your post-surgery journey.
2. Bariatric Cookbooks
A bariatric cookbook is more than just a recipe collection; it’s a guide to help you view food in a new way. It shows that you’re not limited in what you can eat, but instead can combine foods creatively to nourish your body, fostering a healthy, sustainable relationship with food.
These cookbooks are family-friendly recipes, so everyone at the table can enjoy the meals — a win-win for both your journey and your loved ones.
Favorites include:
- Bariatric Slow Cooker Cookbook
- The High-Protein Bariatric Cookbook
- Danielle Walker's Against All Grain Celebrations: A Year of Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, and Paleo Recipes for Every Occasion
Why it’s helpful: Encourages a new, positive perspective on food, supports lifelong nutrition, and provides meals the whole family can enjoy.
3. Compression Garments
Compression garments are a key part of recovery after bariatric surgery. They:
- Reduce swelling by minimizing fluid buildup
- Lower the risk of infection by covering surgical sites
- Help minimize scarring
- Provide support and comfort during healing
Options include:
- Marena: Medical-grade post-surgical compression for full support
- Fabletics: Long-term compression garments with stylish prints
Why it’s helpful: Promotes healing, keeps you comfortable, and helps you feel confident as you recover.
4. Bariatric Vitamins
Bariatric vitamins are essential for long-term health after surgery. They provide the nutrients your body needs and give you the energy to support your recovery and daily activities. Think of them as your post-op boost or “bestie” that helps carry you through your journey.
Options include:
Why it’s helpful: Maintains proper nutrition, prevents deficiencies, and gives you the energy to thrive after surgery.
5. Wellness Planner for 2026
A wellness planner is a powerful tool to support your bariatric journey. Beyond just tracking meals, it allows you to record how your body reacts to different foods — any side effects, bloating, or sensitivities — helping you slowly introduce new ingredients over time.
- Wellness Planner: Food, Goals, and Fitness Dairy
- Graceful Meal Planner and Fitness Tracker
- Kunitsa Co. Food and Exercise Journal
Other features include:
- Water intake tracking: Keep yourself accountable to drinking 64 oz a day*
- Meditation and self-care prompts: Schedule time for yourself and provide daily affirmations
- Daily goal tracking: Exercise, supplements, and other wellness habits
Why it’s helpful: Helps you listen to your body, stay consistent with your routines, and build healthy, long-term habits.
Gifts That Make Your Journey Easier
This holiday season, remember that your journey is about more than just surgery; it’s about building habits, celebrating your wins, and embracing the strength you’ve always had.
Every step, every ritual, and every choice you make brings you closer to the best version of yourself.
Share this guide with friends and family so they can support you in meaningful ways and know that your resilience, determination, and courage will carry you forward. Here’s to finishing the year strong and stepping into a new year full of possibilities!
