Gastric bypass surgery is used to help obese people lose a large amount of weight. The procedure involves dividing the stomach into two sections and re-attaching the intestinal tract to your new, smaller stomach -- often referred to as a "pouch." According to the National Institutes of Health, most people lose up to 20 lb. the first month after surgery and may continue to lose up to half their body weight or more within two years.
Diet Before Surgery
Gastric bypass is a serious operation. There are risks such as blood loss, heart attack, stroke or a negative reaction to anesthesia. Your surgeon will discuss your individual situation and what steps can be taken to minimize your risks. A pre-bariatric diet is designed to help you learn to choose nutrient-dense foods and adjust to eating fewer calories. Before surgery, you may be advised to eat more protein to help preserve lean muscle mass and to decrease your consumption of sugar and simple carbohydrates. Following this diet for two to three months before surgery should make your post-op recovery easier.
Post-Op Diet
Your diet immediately following surgery will be very limited. According to MayoClinic.com, the diet is divided into four phases. You'll be limited to a liquids-only diet for the first few days after surgery, drinking only 2 to 3 oz. at a time. After a few days, you'll move on to pureed food; all of your food must be blended to the consistency of a thick liquid, with no pieces. This second phase lasts two to four weeks. With your doctor's permission, you'll add soft foods such as cooked vegetables or scrambled eggs to your diet. Continue with soft foods for another two months. Finally, you'll be allowed to eat solid foods, although crunchy textures and spicy foods may be a problem for up to six months after surgery.
Your New Regular Diet
After six months, your stomach may be healed enough to eat most foods. However, you won't be able to eat nearly as much as you could before surgery. According to Dr. Frank Jackson of Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology, the new, smaller stomach can hold only about 2 tbsp. instead of 1 quart. As time goes on, says Jackson, the stomach pouch will stretch until it can hold 1/2 to 1 cup. You'll have to choose low-calorie nutrient-dense foods that will provide your body all the essential vitamins it needs. Avoid drinking with your meals, as the liquid can crowd out real food; drink between meals.
Eating Tips
Foods high in fat and sugar can cause "dumping." When food travels too quickly through your stomach, it dumps into your intestines, causing stomach cramps, nausea and diarrhea. Eat slowly and chew your food well before swallowing. Digestion starts in the mouth with the digestive enzymes in your saliva. You may need to limit your fiber intake, because fiber expands in your stomach, making you feel full faster. Pasta, rice, bread and raw vegetables may cause discomfort because of their high fiber content. Always take a multivitamin to ensure your body has all the nutrients you need.
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