Weight-loss surgery, also called bariatric surgery, is a procedure used to help severely obese individuals and people at risk for obesity-related health conditions manage their weight when conventional methods, such as dietary changes and exercise, are not feasible. Bariatric surgery can improve your longevity, according to the Weight-control Information Network, if the procedure itself goes smoothly and you adhere to long-term lifestyle changes. Following a specific doctor-recommended diet promptly after your procedure is also important.
Liquids
For the surgical incision to heal after your bariatric procedure, you'll likely be limited to a liquid-only diet. This dietary phase typically lasts for one to two days, notes MayoClinic.com, and takes place during your hospital stay. Acceptable liquids include water, broth, strained creamy soups, diluted fruit juices and skim or low-fat milk. Sugar-free gelatin is also considered a fluid and may be permitted during this phase. Your doctor may recommend sipping your fluids slowly and limiting your intake to approximately 2 to 3 oz. at a time. Liquids promote hydration and, in many case, support your nutrient intake and energy levels.
Semisolid Foods
Your second dietary phase following weight-loss surgery typically consists of soft or "semisolid" foods and typically lasts for two to four weeks. Your foods at this time should also contain no sugar, according to the Ohio State University Medical Center. Acceptable foods that naturally have this consistency include hot cereal, such as instant rice, oat or wheat-based cereals; unsweetened applesauce; creamy or broth-based soups -- without noodles, rice or chopped vegetables; cooked egg whites; prepared sugar-free shakes; cooked beans and/or lentils; and instant mashed potatoes with or without gravy. You may also continue drinking fluids from the initial phase.
Pureed Foods
In addition to foods with naturally semisolid consistency, you may puree relatively soft solid foods during the second phase after your weight-loss surgery. MayoClinic.com recommends blending solid foods that blend well, such as beans, lean ground meats, fish, yogurt, soft fruits and vegetables and egg whites, with a liquid, such as water or milk, until the food has a paste-like or thick liquid consistency and contains no recognizable pieces. Though the thought of pureeing meat or fish may sound unappealing, you may enjoy the flavor while reaping benefits of protein, which helps your body tissues heal, along with a variety of other important nutrients. For ample antioxidants, which enhance your immune system during recovery, blend colorful fruits, such as berries, citrus fruits, cantaloupe and kiwi, with milk, pure fruit juice or water.
Soft Foods
Once your doctor approves soft, solid foods, you may gradually incorporate canned fruits and vegetables, diced meats and fish and cooked vegetables, in whole form. MayoClinic.com suggests avoiding coarse foods, such as nuts and popcorn, and spicy foods, which may interfere with your initial recovery. Choose soft, non-stringy cooked vegetables, such as well-cooked and mashed cauliflower, carrots, mashed potatoes and spinach, over celery and broccoli.
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