Gastric bypass surgery is a weight-loss method doctors use when other methods have been tried without success. It expedites weight loss by creating a smaller stomach that is only capable of holding approximately 1 oz. of food. Eventually the pouch expands to hold between 4 and 8 oz. at one time. This expansion needs to occur gradually, hence the need for the diet your doctor gives you following your surgery.
The First Two Days
During the first day or two, your doctor will prescribe a clear liquids diet. This allows the staples in your stomach time to heal and prevents vomiting, which can complicate the healing process. Frank W. Jackson, M.D., of Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology in Pennsylvania, explains sips of water are allowed at first, with sugar-free juice, sugar-free gelatin, flat diet soda and clear broth being added 2 to 3 oz. at a time.
Weeks One and Two
Before your discharge from the hospital, and after you have shown evidence of tolerance of the clear-liquids diet, you will begin the full-liquid portion of your diet. During this time your diet consists of high-protein shakes; the protein is a vital aspect of your healing process. It helps your wounds heal and builds new tissue simultaneously. Your doctor may also have you begin taking a chewable multivitamin or supplement at this point to ensure you receive the minerals and vitamins your body needs.
Soft/Pureed Foods
Most patients begin this portion of the diet approximately two weeks after leaving the hospital; however, this depends on how well your body tolerates each stage of the diet. This includes very soft foods such as eggs, non-fat cottage cheese, non-fat yogurt and sugar-free yogurt. You can use a blender for chicken, tuna and pork, mixing them with liquids such as non-fat milk, broth, water or non-fat gravy. You may find it easier to purchase strained baby food; whatever your choice, the texture must be smooth and soft.
Soft Foods
Your doctor determines when you can transition from pureed to soft foods, although this usually occurs around week three or four. The foods you eat are similar to those of the pureed phase, but they no longer need to be completely smooth, just able to be mashed with your fork. Examples include ground or finely diced meats, cooked vegetables without skin or peel and fruit that is fresh or canned.
Regular or Maintenance Diet
Approximately eight weeks after your surgery -- or possible longer depending on how well you heal -- you begin your regular diet, which includes solid foods from all five food groups. It is a gradual transition, beginning with high-protein foods such as lean meat or milk with each meal. Frank W. Jackson, M.D., explains that each meal or snack should be small, with liquids in between them rather than with them. Try one new food at a time to prevent stomach upset or irritation.
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