Bariatric Nutrition

Before bariatric surgery, it’s important to follow a diet plan that reduces liver size and optimizes your body for the procedure. This typically includes:

• High-protein, low-carbohydrate foods
• Lean meats, fish, eggs, and low-fat dairy
• Non-starchy vegetables
• Plenty of water
• Avoiding sugary and high-fat foods

Our nutritionist will provide a personalized preoperative diet plan tailored to your specific needs.

Immediately after surgery, you’ll start with clear liquids, gradually moving to full liquids, pureed foods, and then soft foods over a span of several weeks. This phased approach helps your body heal and adjust to the changes in your digestive system.

Your diet will gradually progress from liquids to pureed foods, then to soft foods, and eventually to a regular diet. Even when on a regular diet, you’ll need to focus on smaller portions and nutrient-dense foods to maintain your health and weight loss.

The postoperative diet progresses through several phases to help your body adjust to the changes and ensure proper healing:

Clear Liquids (1-2 days post-surgery): Water, broth, sugar-free gelatin, decaffeinated tea or coffee, clear electrolyte drinks.

Full Liquids (1-2 weeks post-surgery): Protein shakes, milk, strained cream soups, unsweetened applesauce, sugar-free pudding, yogurt without fruit chunks.

Pureed Foods (2-4 weeks post-surgery): Pureed meats, mashed potatoes, blended vegetables, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, cottage cheese.

Soft Foods (4-6 weeks post-surgery): Soft-cooked vegetables, soft fruits without skins, ground meats, fish, tofu, soft cheeses.

Regular Diet (6 weeks post-surgery onwards): Lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats. Eat small, frequent meals, chew thoroughly, and avoid high-sugar and high-fat foods.

After bariatric surgery, protein intake is crucial for healing and muscle maintenance. Typically, patients are advised to consume at least 60-80 grams of protein per day. Your nutritionist will provide specific recommendations based on your individual needs.

Staying hydrated is crucial after bariatric surgery. Aim to drink at least 64 ounces of water per day. Tips to avoid dehydration include:

• Sip water throughout the day
• Avoid drinking 30 minutes before and after meals
• Use a water bottle to track your intake
• Avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages

Nausea and vomiting can occur if you eat too quickly, eat too much, or introduce new foods too soon. If you experience these symptoms:

• Slow down your eating
• Take smaller bites and chew thoroughly
• Follow the recommended dietary progression
• Avoid foods that are difficult to digest
• Stay hydrated

If symptoms persist, contact your healthcare provider or nutritionist for further guidance.

Managing food cravings and emotional eating is an important part of your journey. Strategies include:

• Identifying triggers for cravings and emotional eating
• Keeping healthy snacks on hand
• Practicing mindful eating
• Seeking support from a counselor or support group
• Staying physically active

Your nutritionist and healthcare team can provide additional resources and support.

A pre-surgery diet helps reduce the size of your liver, making the surgery safer and more manageable. It also starts the process of weight loss and prepares you for the dietary changes you’ll need to adopt post-surgery.

Protein is crucial for healing and maintaining muscle mass. Generally, you should aim for 60-80 grams of protein per day, but your nutritionist will provide specific recommendations based on your individual needs.

Yes, but “normal” will be redefined. You’ll be able to enjoy a wide variety of foods, but in smaller portions and with a focus on nutrient-dense options. Avoiding high-sugar and high-fat foods will be important to prevent complications like dumping syndrome.

Yes, it is possible if you don’t adhere to the recommended dietary and lifestyle changes. Regular follow-ups with your nutritionist, sticking to healthy eating habits, and staying physically active are crucial for long-term success.

If you’re finding it difficult to stick to your post-surgery diet, reach out to your nutritionist for guidance. They can help adjust your meal plan, provide strategies to overcome challenges, and offer support to keep you on track.

Yes, certain foods should be avoided to prevent complications and ensure long-term success. These include sugary foods, high-fat foods, carbonated beverages, and foods that are hard to digest, like tough meats and fibrous vegetables.

Consuming adequate protein and engaging in regular strength training exercises are key to maintaining muscle mass. Your nutritionist can provide specific recommendations for protein intake and exercise to help preserve muscle during weight loss.

Staying motivated involves setting realistic goals, celebrating small achievements, seeking support from your nutritionist and support groups, and keeping a positive mindset. Tracking your progress and reminding yourself of the benefits of your new, healthier lifestyle can also help.

Yes, bariatric surgery alters your digestive system, which can affect nutrient absorption. Your nutritionist will recommend specific vitamins and supplements to prevent deficiencies, including multivitamins, calcium, vitamin D, iron, and B12.

Due to reduced food intake and changes in nutrient absorption after surgery, patients usually need to take the following supplements:

• Multivitamin with minerals
• Calcium citrate with Vitamin D
• Vitamin B12
• Iron (especially for women)
• Additional Vitamin D
• Other supplements as recommended by your healthcare provider

Your nutritionist will guide you on the appropriate types and dosages of these supplements.

Our expert nutritionist is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you achieve your weight loss goals and maintain optimal health. If you have any additional questions or need personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.