What Foods Are Good To Eat After A Gastric Bypass?

As of 2003, Roux-en-Y, or RNY, gastric bypasses accounted for more than 80 percent of bariatric surgery procedures in the United States, according to the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. The procedure limits intake by restricting the size of the stomach and blocks the absorption of some calories and nutrients. For long-term weight-loss success, eat a high-protein, low-sugar and low-fat diet for the rest of your life.

Protein

Gastric bypass surgery causes malabsorption of fat, protein and other nutrients. In fact, about 25 percent of the protein you eat will pass through without absorption, says registered dietitian Linda Aills, lead researcher in a study published in the September 2008 issue of "Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases." You will need at least 60 to 80g of protein every day for the rest of your life to prevent loss of lean muscle mass. Choose protein-rich fish, poultry, lean meat, eggs, dried beans, peas and soy products, avoiding tough or stringy foods that might stick in your pouch. While you recover from surgery, your diet might include fat-free refried beans, soft scrambled eggs and, later, ground or pureed meats. When you begin to eat solid foods, prepare tender cuts of meat, flaky fish, skinless chicken and turkey by grilling, roasting, pan-frying with nonstick spray or other low-fat methods.

Dairy

Low-fat dairy products provide high-quality protein, calcium and other nutrients. Patients usually tolerate yogurt, cottage cheese and skim milk during the full liquid and pureed food stages of the recovery period. Later, you may add soft and hard cheeses. Whey protein powders, made of milk products, help boost your protein intake, but choose the whey isolate form instead of whey concentrate if you have problems with lactose intolerance.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables provide fiber, vitamins and minerals in your diet. You may enjoy most fresh, frozen and canned forms after a gastric bypass, as long as you do not add sugar or fat to them. During the initial recovery period, begin with applesauce and baby food when instructed by your surgeon, then move on to soft, cooked vegetables and fruits canned in juice. When you can tolerate solid foods, choose berries, peaches, apples, pears and other fruits, but avoid those high in sugar, including bananas and dried fruits. If you find certain vegetables -- asparagus, celery, carrots or corn -- difficult to digest, avoid them or try them again at a later time.

Grains

Grains provide fiber and other nutrients, but stick to whole grain versions -- oatmeal, brown rice and whole wheat bread -- for the most nutrition. Enjoy cooked cereals during the recovery period, moving on to toasted bread and other grains as you begin to eat solid foods. Many gastric bypass patients find that pasta, rice and soft breads stick in the stomach opening, so avoid these foods or delay eating them. Avoid grains with added sugar, including pastries, sugary cereals, cakes and pies, as well as those prepared with fat.