Once you have made the decision to undergo weight loss surgery, you must prepare yourself for the diet that accompanies it--both post-operative and once weight loss has been achieved. The diet is especially strict for the first eight weeks following the procedure, but this strictness is to help you heal and achieve optimal weight loss results. Though it takes time to get used to, eventually it becomes a way of life; a healthy life you are sure to be grateful for in the end.
Step 1
Begin slowly. Once your procedure is complete, your doctor will place you on a progressive diet. This takes you through four stages--liquid, pureed, soft and lifelong. Each stage lasts different lengths of time. The purpose is to give your stomach time to adjust to its changes while you heal from the procedure.
Step 2
Focus on protein. The University of Rochester Medical Center recommends consuming at least 60 g of protein a day. It not only helps quicken your healing process by rebuilding and repairing cells, but it is also essential for optimal long-term health. Obtain your protein through a variety of sources, such as lean meats, low-fat dairy and egg substitutes or egg whites.
Step 3
Eat plenty of fruits and veggies. Both are a good source of the fiber and will help keep you feeling satisfied and assist you in maintaining your bowel regularity. You can enjoy 1 to 2 cups daily of fruit, preferably fresh. If you choose canned, make sure it is sugar-free.
When it comes to vegetables, increase your serving to 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 cups daily. Most vegetables are allowed, however they should be non-starchy. This includes green beans, cauliflower, broccoli, squash, cucumbers and spinach.
Step 4
Choose your starches carefully. Though you can eat four to six servings of carbohydrates a day, they should be whole-grains. Whole grains have the least effect on your blood sugar levels, keeping them stable rather than causing them to spike which results in food cravings. This group includes starchy vegetables, such as corn and peas, along with cooked or cold cereal, both sugar-free, and rice and pasta. Waffles and pancakes are allowed, however you need to be cautious when preparing them. It is better to avoid using too much butter or margarine, along with cream or cheese sauces for rice and pasta.
Step 5
Consume good fats. Four to six servings of fat are allowed each day, with a serving being no more than 1 tbsp. Olive and canola oils are a good choice for cooking and salad dressings, while peanuts, almonds and walnuts are healthy snack choices. Light mayonnaise is permitted, along with light margarine. Trans fats need to be avoided. These are the fats responsible for weight gain, high cholesterol levels and are found in products devised from hydrogenated oils, such as lard, sour cream, cakes, cookies and chips. Hydrogenated means it was a liquid oil made solid through the process of hydrogenation; it is unhealthy and an underlying cause of obesity.
Step 6
Drink your liquids slowly. Most liquids are allowed, however you need to omit carbonated beverages containing large amounts of sugar, such as soft drinks and fruit juices. The best choices are water, decaffeinated coffee or tea, sugar-free drinks, such as iced tea, lemonade and 1-percent or skim milk.
Drink your liquids between your meals rather than with your meals. Your new pouch can only hold about 1 oz. of food; liquids can fill this up quickly. You should consume 6 to 8 cups daily, spaced throughout the day.
Tips and Warnings
- The above diet tips for weight loss surgery patients are for those who have received the doctor's permission to move onto solid foods. The amount of time he has you on your progression diet, the amount of time you spend in each stage and the foods allowed during that time may vary with each bariatric surgeon. They will also depend on how well you are healing and whether you are experiencing any complications.
Things You'll Need
- Protein
- Fruit
- Vegetables
- Fiber
Member Comments