Following bariatric surgery, patients must maintain a healthy diet to ensure health and weight loss. Dietary recommendations change in the weeks following the surgery as the body adjusts to the surgical procedure, and patients must be careful to eat sensibly and not overload the stomach. Proper nutritional intake, moderate exercise and bariatric surgery have helped many people to lose excessive weight.
Weeks 1 and 2
During the first two weeks following bariatric surgery, a liquid diet is typically considered a requirement. High-protein liquid supplements, tea, broth and water will be a significant part of the diet initially. According to the University of Florida Department of General Surgery, diet sodas which have lost carbonation may be allowed. Small amounts of fruit juices or blended low-fat yogurt may gradually be added into the diet.
Weeks 3 and 4
During the third and fourth post-operative weeks, pureed foods will be added to the diet. Baby food is one alternative. Meals during this period are generally limited to about four tablespoons of food. Three meals and three snacks a day is the suggested meal plan. Taking only small sips of liquid with meals is necessary, as drinking liquid with food can cause the pouch to reject the food. Each bite of food should be chewed at least 20 times before it is swallowed.
Weeks 5 and 6
Beginning in week five, small portions of very soft foods are recommended. Baked fish, chicken and turkey as well as steamed or boiled vegetables are suggested during the sixth week. Creamy peanut butter, lean ground beef or veal, crackers, and canned or soft fruits can also be introduced at this time.
Week 7 and Beyond
By seven weeks post surgery, most patients are ready to begin eating a normal diet. However, a normal post-bariatric diet should be vastly different from the diet before surgery. Too much food can block the opening in the stomach, so patients are reminded to chew foods thoroughly and avoid overeating.
General Diet Tips
Strictly follow the advice of the dietitian. She will assess nutritional intake and recommend improvements when necessary. Foods such as nuts, seeds, and fruit and vegetable skins should be avoided. Untoasted breads, high caloric foods and beverages, and foods with a high fat content should also be avoided.
Food intolerances may develop after bariatric surgery. Steak and pork are two foods that are commonly reported to produce intolerances for bariatric patients. Eating smaller portions, chewing more thoroughly, or limiting liquid intake prior to and during meals may help reduce intolerances.
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