Gastric bypass surgery is performed for individuals who are obese or who cannot maintain a healthy weight. The gastric band is an instrument placed in the upper part of the stomach to restrict the amount of food an individual consumes. Gastric band surgery does not replace a healthy lifestyle such as proper diet and exercise and should only be recommended by a health care provider. Consult a registered dietitian for the best food options following gastric band surgery.
Identification
Individuals who have just undergone gastric band surgery must follow a strict diet progression. Only fluids such as water are allowed right after surgery. Gastric band patients are allowed to consume more foods as the weeks progress. A variety of liquids and foods are added to the diet as the patient progresses towards recovery.
Significance
Post gastric band diets are recommended for patients as part of the recovery and weight-loss process. The liquids and foods incorporated in the diet ensure that the patient dose not stretch the stomach pouch above the gastric band and also prevent unwanted side effects such as discomfort and vomiting.
Post Surgery Diet
For one to two weeks after surgery, only liquids such as clear broth, soup, milk or fruit juice can be tolerated, according to the The University of California San Diego Medical Center. Liquids are vital to health because they prevent dehydration and support recovery.
Pureed foods, or foods with a softer consistency, are recommended three to four weeks following gastric band surgery. It is important to consume foods that are high in protein to maintain muscle. Skinless fish and chicken, mashed potatoes, peas or yogurt are some examples of high-protein pureed foods. During this stage, solid foods are passed through a blender to give them a mashed consistency. Dry skim milk powder may be added to liquids and foods to increase the protein content.
Cooked tender foods such as lean meats and fish can be consumed five weeks after surgery, if tolerated by the patient. In this stage, the Temple Bariatric Program at Temple University recommends incorporating nutritious easy-to-chew foods rich in essential fatty acids and healthy carbohydrates such as non-fibrous vegetables and fruits.
The transition between soft tender foods to solid foods depends on tolerance and progression of recovery of the individual patient.
Restrictions
Avoid fibrous foods such as dried fruit, pineapple, seeds, almonds, peanuts and other nuts. Other foods to avoid are grapes, corn, popcorn, rhubarb and asparagus. Replace high-calorie and carbonated beverages with high-quality foods and liquids that are nutrient dense and good sources of protein. Avoiding these foods prevent discomfort and supports the recovery process for gastric band patients.
Considerations
The UCSD Medical Center recommends consuming three small meals per day. Eating slowly and thoroughly chewing all foods is the best way to minimize discomfort. Avoid eating any snacks in between meals and consuming liquids during meals. Finally, do not force food, and stop eating when you immediately feel full. Following the recommended dietary guidelines and lifestyle changes will support weight-loss after surgery and minimize complications.
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