Healthy Living
Eating After Weight Loss Surgery
One important component to losing weight – and keeping it off – is watching what you eat.
After surgery, your doctor will create a personalized nutrition plan for you, which will most likely start with a liquid diet and slowly progress to regularly textured food. Here is an overview of what else you can expect. As always, please follow the doctor’s orders.
Although it doesn’t necessarily keep you hydrated, you can resume your caffeine fix approximately 30 days after surgery. It’s best to avoid caffeinated drinks while your stomach is extra sensitive. And, be sure to pay attention to the amount of sugar you add to coffee or tea before you take a sip.
You can find protein in meats, eggs, dairy products, tofu, beans and lentils. Supplements made from whey and soy can also support your protein needs.
What to eat after weight loss surgery is one of the most popular and important topics for bariatric patients. Whenever you have questions, we’re here for you. We want to help you reach your weight loss goals.
Weight loss surgery is generally designed for those with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 40, or equal to or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding with the Lap Band® is also FDA-approved for weight loss surgery in people with a BMI of 30 to 35 who have at least one obesity-related condition. Weight loss surgery is considered safe, but like many types of surgery, it does have risks. Consult with your physician about the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery.
After surgery, your doctor will create a personalized nutrition plan for you, which will most likely start with a liquid diet and slowly progress to regularly textured food. Here is an overview of what else you can expect. As always, please follow the doctor’s orders.
Fluids
It’s recommended to drink 64 ounces or more of fluids daily to avoid dehydration. Carrying a bottle of water with you, especially when you leave the house, is a great way to stay hydrated.Although it doesn’t necessarily keep you hydrated, you can resume your caffeine fix approximately 30 days after surgery. It’s best to avoid caffeinated drinks while your stomach is extra sensitive. And, be sure to pay attention to the amount of sugar you add to coffee or tea before you take a sip.
Protein
Once you’ve healed enough to eat regularly textured food, it is recommended to have protein at every meal and snack (at least 60-80 grams daily), which helps control your appetite.You can find protein in meats, eggs, dairy products, tofu, beans and lentils. Supplements made from whey and soy can also support your protein needs.
Sugar and Carbohydrates
Just because you’ve had weight loss surgery doesn’t mean you have to give up some of life’s sweetest treats. But you should limit them if you want results. Do your best to lower your intake of sugary foods (cookies, cakes, candy, juice or other sweets) and refined carbohydrates (white breads, pastas, crackers and refined cereals) whenever possible.What to eat after weight loss surgery is one of the most popular and important topics for bariatric patients. Whenever you have questions, we’re here for you. We want to help you reach your weight loss goals.
Weight loss surgery is generally designed for those with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 40, or equal to or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding with the Lap Band® is also FDA-approved for weight loss surgery in people with a BMI of 30 to 35 who have at least one obesity-related condition. Weight loss surgery is considered safe, but like many types of surgery, it does have risks. Consult with your physician about the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery.
Source:
American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric SurgerySign Up for Health Tips
Get our advice and upcoming events about weight, pain, heart and more.