Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is one of the most effective ways to shed excess weight and keep it off for good. But it’s not just about the surgery itself; to see the best results, you’ll need to follow strict postoperative dietary guidelines as well as regular exercise after the procedure. This combination of surgery and lifestyle changes is what helps people keep the weight off in the long run.
After bariatric surgery, your stomach is much smaller, which means you can only eat a small amount of food at a time. Eating the right foods and drinking enough water will help you heal properly and set you up for long-term success. These guidelines are designed to make sure you get the nutrition you need while adjusting to your new, smaller stomach.
Two Week Post Op All Liquid Diet
The first two weeks after your surgery are crucial for healing. During this time, you’ll be on a strict liquid diet to give your stomach time to recover. You should only consume liquids that are smooth and easy to digest, like broth, protein shakes, and plenty of water. Make sure you’re sipping slowly and only taking in a small amount of liquid at a time.
It’s also important to stay hydrated, so aim to drink at least 92 ounces of water each day, slowly sipping throughout the day. While you’re on this liquid diet, You should avoid any drinks that contain caffeine, as these can irritate your stomach, slow down the healing process, and cause dehydration.
This all-liquid diet is temporary, but it’s an essential step in making sure your body heals properly after surgery. You will also need to take vitamins and other supplements–such as iron and protein–to ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs.
Introduction of Soft Foods
After the first two weeks, you’ll gradually start introducing soft foods into your diet. These foods should be easy to chew and swallow, like mashed potatoes, soft scrambled eggs, sugar-free pudding, etc. You can also start eating puréed food, like fruits and vegetables that have been blended until smooth.
The key is to eat slowly and only take in small amounts at a time. This helps you avoid overeating and gives your stomach a chance to get used to solid food again. Also, be mindful of carbs–a cup of cream of wheat can have nearly 30 grams of carbohydrates! This phase usually lasts for about two to four weeks, but your WeightWise surgeon will give you specific guidelines based on how well you’re healing.
Introduction of Solid Foods
Once your stomach has adjusted to soft foods, you’ll start introducing solid, high-protein foods into your diet. This usually happens about six weeks after surgery. Start with soft solid foods like cooked vegetables, tender meats, and low-fat dairy products. Cut your food into small pieces and chew each bite slowly to avoid any discomfort.
You’ll still need to be mindful of the amount you’re eating since your stomach can only hold a small amount at a time. As you continue to introduce solid foods, make sure you’re eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of lean proteins and little sugar or excess calories.
Avoid foods that are high in sugar or fat, as these can slow down your weight loss and cause digestive issues. You’ll also want to be mindful of when you’re drinking water–don’t drink water 30 minutes before or after eating. You don’t want to fill your stomach with water, limiting the amount of food it can handle during this time.
Importance of Vitamins and Supplements
After bariatric surgery, your body won’t absorb vitamins and minerals as efficiently as it did before. This is why it’s so important to take vitamins and mineral supplements every day. These supplements will help you avoid deficiencies that can lead to serious health problems down the road.
Your WeightWise surgeon will recommend specific vitamins and mineral supplements, like calcium, vitamin D, and iron, that you’ll need to take for the rest of your life. But even with a balanced diet, supplements are necessary to make sure you’re getting everything your body needs to stay healthy. By taking your vitamins and supplements as directed, you’ll help your body heal and maintain your weight loss in the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How soon can I start eating solid foods after bariatric surgery?
You can typically start eating solid foods about six weeks after surgery, but you’ll start with an all-liquid diet, soft solids, and gradually work your way up to more regular foods.
Why do I need to avoid caffeine after bariatric surgery?
Caffeine can irritate your stomach and slow down the healing process, and as a diuretic, it can lead to dehydration. Stick to caffeine-free liquids during the healing process and beyond.
How much water should I drink after surgery?
Aim for 64-92 ounces (around 8-10 cups) of water per day, but make sure to sip slowly and only drink a small amount at a time to avoid overwhelming your stomach.
Why do I need to take vitamins and supplements after bariatric surgery?
Your body won’t absorb vitamins and minerals through food as effectively after surgery, so supplements are necessary to avoid deficiencies.
If you’re thinking about bariatric surgery, the first step is to take our online assessment to see if you’re a candidate. This quick quiz will help determine which types of bariatric surgery might be right for you. Or, reach out to us directly to schedule a consultation.
Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, from understanding your options to choosing the best procedure for your needs. Take the first step toward a healthier you today!