Gastric bypass surgery is used for the treatment of morbid obesity. Robert Wood Johnson University names several types of surgery, all involving the bypass of a section of small intestine. It notes that the small intestine digests food with the help of juices from the pancreas and liver. After the surgery, during the hospital stay, the patient receives IV fluids, clear liquids to thicker liquids and soft foods. Once home, you can gradually introduce solid foods.
Diet
The Highland Hospital Bariatric Center recommends you follow the diet your surgeon provides when you return home from gastric bypass surgery. You should eat within one hour of rising. To prevent the dumping syndrome, when food leaves the stomach too soon, avoid fats and sugar. Do not chew gum, as a blockage may occur if swallowed.
Chewing
It is important to chew slowly, taking up to 60 minutes to consume a main meal. Chew each bite about 30 times. Highland Hospital notes you should chew foods until they're mushy and the consistency of applesauce. If necessary, use a blender to puree foods. It insists that if you continue eating after feeling full, you may vomit. Fullness may be experienced as nausea, pressure under the ribcage or pain in the chest or shoulder. Taking small, pea-size bites help the stomach to adjust to food slowly.
Fluids
Highland Hospital cautions not to consume food and liquids simultaneously as the stomach is healing and it cannot accommodate both at the same time. Sip fluids slowly. Keep a bottle of water on hand. The hospital advises you avoid alcohol as it dehydrates and offers no nutrients. Don't use straws or drink carbonated beverages, which can cause bloating.
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