The physical and emotional baggage of obesity plagues over 30 percent of US adults. In a society fraught with fad diets, appetite suppressants and weight-loss supplements, many frustrated souls turn to gastric bypass surgery for a second chance at life. While some perceive gastric bypass as a quick-fix, the post-surgical diet requires dedication and discipline.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric bypass surgery is a permanent medical intervention designed to reduce the size of the stomach and reconnect it to the small intestine, reports Dr. Frank Jackson of Jackson-Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. In turn, the operation increases satiety and helps speed weight loss. Foods high in protein and low in fat, fiber and sugar lay the foundation of the meal plan. If you undergo the procedure, take heart. Most can enjoy normal foods after three months.
Phase 1: Liquid
A diet following gastric bypass is divided into four phases to accommodate the expanding stomach and individual tolerances. One to two days after the operation, you will begin Phase 1 of the post-surgical diet. This initial phase is comprised of room-temperature fluids and semisolid foods such as broth, milk, strained cream soup and sugar-free gelatin, describes MayoClinic.com. Because your stomach is roughly the size of an egg at this point, sip slowly and limit meal sizes to 2 or 3 oz.
Phase 2: Pureed
After a few days, you can advance to pureed and ground-up foods. This two- to four-week stage calls for items that have the consistency of applesauce with no perceptible pieces of food. MayoClinic.com lists beans, lean meats, yogurt and soft fruits as possible options. During Phase 2, certain foods such as spices, meat and dairy products may cause digestive upset. Gradually incorporate these items one at a time every few days.
Phase 3: Soft
The third phase consists of soft, solid foods and lasts about eight weeks. Dr. Jackson recommends scrambled eggs, ground meats and low-fat cottage cheese. Chew foods thoroughly to prevent obstructing your stomach pouch.
Phase 4: Solid
You're on the home stretch. It's time to begin your new, lifelong eating plan. Most firm foods from all five food groups are now part of the menu, notes Dr. Jackson. Your re-routed digestive tract is still adjusting to the change -- proceed slowly. Never eat too much food at one sitting, and at first, avoid popcorn, carbonated drinks, fibrous vegetables, spicy foods, breads and crunchy foods like granola. Slowly reintroduce these foods a little at a time, to be sure you can tolerate them.
Supplements
Vitamins and minerals are essential to a post-bypass diet, says Dr. Jackson. Foods alone may not be enough to supply the nutrients your body needs. In addition to a multivitamin, oral supplements of iron, calcium and vitamin B-12 are often used to prevent deficiencies. Consult with you doctor to talk about what supplements, in what quantities, are right for you.
Words of Wisdom
Nutritional compliance along with regular physical activity are key elements to the success of bypass surgery. To maximize weight loss and avoid gastrointestinal issues, Dr. Jackson outlines a few rules to live by. Aim for six 1/2-cup meals per day. Make protein a priority to build tissue and promote wound healing. Stay hydrated by slowly sipping 6 cups of water daily, preferably between meals. Finally, calories count. Keep in mind that the positive effects of gastric bypass can be countered by all-day grazing.
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