Following bariatric surgery, a patient will most likely need to make changes to their pre-surgery eating habits. Directly after surgery, the main goal is to meet fluid and protein needs provided by a liquid protein diet. However, as the patient progresses through their recovery, so does the patient's diet. This progressive diet allows for maximum healing, while avoiding food intolerances and other complications at the same time. A variety of whole foods will be necessary to meet the patient's nutritional needs for the long term. Eating a diet high in protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will give the body the nutrients it needs while continuing to lose weight.
Helpful Tips for Nutrition Post-Bariatric Surgery:
- Eat and Drink Slowly - it is important to chew small bites of food thoroughly.
- Keep Meals Small - it is crucial to eat regular, balanced meals in small portions. Irregular eating patterns and skipping meals will only contribute to cravings and potentially poor food choices.
- Drink Liquids In Between Meals - hydration is also key to recovery. Try to avoid using straws, drinking caffeinated beverages, or chewing ice often, if at all.
- Focus on High-Protein Food - foods high in protein take longer for the body to digest. Protein also helps to preserve muscle tissue.
- Avoid Foods High in Fat and Sugar - following a diet low in empty calories and saturated fats is critical to recovery and long-term surgery results.
- Take Vitamin Supplements - not taking supplements can make a patient prone to malnutrition, anemia, poor bone health, and even osteoporosis. Vitamin B12, folic acid, iron, calcium, and thiamine tend to be the more common deficiencies that occur following bariatric surgery if proper supplements are not taken regularly.
Following post-surgery guidelines can make all the difference to a patient's successful recovery. These guidelines help a patient limit calories, while also encouraging healthy, balanced eating to prevent insufficiencies. It may also be helpful for patients to keep a daily record of calorie and protein intake to ensure that they are staying on track.
If you or your loved one are considering bariatric surgery, let the experts at Long Island Laparoscopic Surgery help. We are here to answer any questions before and after surgery. Reach out for a consultation today!
Dr. Arif Ahmad specializes in laparoscopic robotic surgery and has performed over 2,000 laparoscopic robotic surgeries. He is renowned in the Long Island area for his impeccable track record of safety and success.
