After undergoing Lap-Band surgery, you will be on a strict diet for several weeks. Following the advice of your doctor and nutritionist during this time period is important in allowing your body to heal and to avoid complications. Before you report for surgery, stock your kitchen with several days' worth of recommended foods so that you can rest and recover without going to the store.
About Lap-Band
Lap-Band surgery, or adjustable gastric banding, involves sectioning your stomach with a flexible silicone ring. Your doctor will place the ring around the upper portion of your stomach, creating a small pouch that limits the amount of food you can eat.
Time Frame
According to Allergen, the makers of the Lap-Band system, your post-surgery diet will progress from liquids to pureed and soft foods, to solid foods. For the first one to two weeks following surgery, you will be restricted to liquids, such as clear broths and fruit juice. During weeks three and four, you can begin consuming pureed foods, such as mashed potatoes, applesauce or pudding. After five weeks, your diet may include soft foods such as fish or ground turkey. Six weeks after surgery, you may be able to tolerate small amounts of solid food.
Considerations
Allergen recommends eating protein-rich foods first so that you can maintain muscle mass, and then adding fruits and vegetables. You may initially be allowed to consume foods with a high caloric content, notes Malley Surgical Weight Loss Center, although these foods may be discouraged later in your treatment. The goal immediately following surgery is not to start losing weight, but to give your body time to adjust to the device. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Eating Habits
Cut your food into small pieces and always chew thoroughly to avoid nausea, stomach irritation or pouch swelling. Take small bites, using smaller utensils if necessary. Make sure that your family understands your dietary limitations so that they do not pressure you to eat too much or eat the wrong foods.
Warnings
Some amount of regurgitation is normal and should be expected, notes Allergen. However, excessive vomiting can stretch the stomach pouch or may cause the band to slip, a complication that could result in ongoing nausea or vomiting and sometimes requires additional surgery to correct. Progress to more solid foods slowly, and remain on the liquid or pureed foods diet if solid foods cause nausea.
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