The Whipple procedure, also known as a pancreaticoduodenectomy, is a surgical procedure performed to treat tumors or cancer of the pancreas. In the Whipple procedure, a portion of the pancreas and small intestine are removed. The gallbladder, bile duct and sometimes part of the stomach are also removed during the operation. Following the Whipple procedure, the intestines take approximately one week to regain normal activity and function. Decreased intestinal function affects the diet significantly during the recovery process.
Low Fat Diet
After the Whipple procedure, patients should limit their fat intake to 40 g to 60 g per day. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes, and when a portion of the pancreas is removed, fewer enzymes are available to aid in the digestion process. Fat, in particular, is difficult to digest, so a low fat diet is typically recommended.
Number of Meals
It is important to eat five to six small meals per day after having the Whipple procedure. Slowed digestion and, for some people, a smaller stomach, necessitate that smaller meals are consumed. In order to accomplish this, you can eat smaller meals and large snacks, or you can split regular sized meals in half and eat two breakfasts, two lunches and two dinners.
Combating Nausea
Nausea is a common side effect after the Whipple procedure. Many people find that food doesn't taste quite the same as before. Sweet foods are often too sweet for many people, causing worsened nausea. Although you may not feel up to eating, it is important that you eat to maintain your strength and aid in the recovery process. Bland foods such as mashed potatoes, toast and bananas may be easier to eat and digest than other foods.
Fluids
When you eat meals, it is important to limit your fluid intake. Drinking a lot of water or other beverages with your meals will fill your stomach with a non-nutritive substance, preventing you from being able to eat the nutritious foods that you need. It is important that you remain hydrated by drinking 64 oz of fluid per day, but you should try to drink the majority of this fluid between meals, instead of with them.
Alternative Nutrition
If you cannot eat following surgery due to complications or extreme nausea, your doctor may place a feeding tube. Tube feeds may be initiated in place of meals, or they may be used to supplement any food that you are able to eat. Tube feeding is generally a temporary solution and will be discontinued whenever you are able to resume eating.
Digestive Enzymes
Your doctor may order digestive enzymes to help your body digest food. These enzymes are not required in all cases, but they are helpful for many patients. If you experience diarrhea after eating, you may need enzyme replacement. Digestive enzymes should be taken with every meal and snack in order to properly digest and absorb the nutrients in the food.
