How to Eat Well After Weight Loss Surgery

Overview

Obesity is defined by a body mass index of greater than 30. The BMI is calculated by taking a person's height, weight and age into consideration. Bariatric surgery describes a group of surgical procedures for weight loss. Whichever surgery you chose, keep in mind that there is more work to be done after the surgery. You will have to change your diet and lifestyle to maintain your new weight and stay healthy.

Step 1

Follow a diet of liquids and soft foods for up to the first six weeks after your surgery. Foods such as yogurt, scrambled eggs and cottage cheese are adequate choices. Puree foods so they are easy to digest. You could also opt to eat baby food.

Step 2

Avoid food products that contain sugar and milk directly after surgery. Ask your doctor if this measure applies to your specific surgery and how long you should stick to the diet. Some people can develop dumping syndrome when eating or drinking simple sugars such as those found in candy, juice, ice cream, condiments and soft drinks. Dumping syndrome is caused by food moving too quickly through the stomach and intestines. It results in shaking, sweating, dizziness, rapid heart rate and severe diarrhea. Natural sugars that are found in fruits, dairy products and vegetables generally do not cause dumping syndrome.

Step 3

Slowly increase caloric intake over time. Eat small meals throughout the day and be sure to chew the food slowly and thoroughly. Not taking these measures can cause vomiting or stomach pain as well as nutrition problems.

Step 4

Stick to a meal plan. Snacking and consumption of high-calorie foods can lead to weight gain. Divide your meals into five or six portions for easy absorption and to keep you full throughout the day.

Step 5

Separate fluid and food intake by at least 30 minutes. Do not drink for 30 minutes prior to eating, during the meal or 30 minutes after eating.

Step 6

Eat a source of lean protein at every meal to build and maintain muscle strength and aid in cell repair. Include sources of protein such as skim milk, low-fat cheeses, eggs and yogurt. The author of Eating Well After Weight Loss Surgery by Dr. William B. Inabnet recommends a high protein to carbohydrate ratio for the entire diet after surgery. (Ref. 2)

Step 7

Eat canned fruits and vegetables to add variety to your diet and aid in digestion. Oatmeal and grains are nutritional and soft enough to absorb easily, providing steady energy throughout the day. Fruit and vegetable smoothies are another source of nutrients that is easy to digest.

Step 8

Stop eating when you feel any discomfort. Many foods can cause you to feel full too quickly. Avoid overeating, which will slow down weight loss and stretch the stomach. Bread, pasta and potato consumption should be kept to a minimum, as they can be difficult to digest.