Bariatric surgery changes a patient's digestive system by altering the amount of food the stomach can accommodate, leading to weight reduction. Post-operative diets following a bariatric procedure help your body adjust to a new stomach size. Foods are introduced slowly to prevent stomach damage, reduce side effects and promote healing.
Goals
With rapid weight loss, nutrition is paramount. After surgery, your primary goal is to learn proper eating habits to maintain good health while facilitating weight loss. Consume sufficient protein to minimize lean muscle loss, and drink enough fluids to maintain hydration. Initially, a few bites of food may lead to satiation, so don't overeat. A multivitamin supplement can help prevent nutrient deficiency.
Liquids
You may be discharged from the hospital on an all-liquid meal plan to be maintained for up to three weeks. Each bariatric procedure has varied dietary guidelines, though, and your doctor will give you specific instructions. Generally, you should drink a high protein liquid meal every hour. These meals include whey or soy protein drinks. Carbonated and caffeinated drinks are prohibited, but herbal tea is allowed. Low calorie drinks are recommended.
Soft Foods
After about three weeks, you will follow up with your doctor. You doctor will assess you, and if you can tolerate them, soft foods are added to your diet. You will continue to drink high protein liquids. High protein soft foods, including eggs, tuna, low-fat cottage cheese and tofu, are recommended. Stop eating when you are full to prevent stomach pains, nausea and vomiting.
Solid Foods
About 12 weeks post-surgery, you will be able to tolerate solid foods. Lean meats and vegetables are recommended. Avoid high fat, high calorie foods, and limit processed foods. Include protein with each meal. Continue to drink enough liquids to maintain hydration. Eat slowly, allowing your brain time to process a sensation of fullness. Chew your food thoroughly before swallowing, generally 15 times.
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