For those who struggle to lose weight through traditional means, like dieting and exercise, bariatric surgery could be a better solution. The procedure is typically recommended for those who are obese (those with a body mass index of 30 or higher) with comorbidities such as sleep apnea, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Bariatric surgery though, is just one part of the equation. To achieve long-term weight loss success post operation, it is necessary to modify your lifestyle – especially your diet.
Diet After Bariatric Surgery
Many changes occur after bariatric surgery. Your tolerance of certain foods and the amount you are able to eat will change over the course of the recovery period. This is why doctors strongly advise patients to make healthier food choices after surgery.
Both the quality and quantity of food should be taken into consideration to prevent malnutrition and to make the most of the weight loss procedure.
What to Eat After Weight Loss Surgery
Dietary guidelines are provided to patients after bariatric surgery. These guidelines are carefully designed by healthcare providers, with the goal of preventing nutritional deficiencies, preserving muscle tissue, and providing well-balanced meals, while still limiting caloric intake.
Here are general food guidelines after bariatric surgery:
- Protein should be included in all meals after the weight loss surgery as it aids in wound healing and helps the body burn fat. One should get at least 65 grams of protein a day. Some good sources of protein include eggs, meat, fish, poultry, soy, milk, and milk products.
- Staying hydrated after the procedure is very important. This can be done by drinking extra water, low-calorie, or no-calorie fluids in between meals. The patients should get at least 2 liters of fluids per day.
- Sugary foods and beverages as well as highly-processed food products should be avoided as much as possible.
- To get the most of each meal, choose “real” food with proper nutritional content. Eat slowly, take small bites, and chew the food really well.
- Take the following nutritional supplements on a daily basis to prevent nutrition deficiencies: calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iron.
These guidelines may be challenging to implement at first but with discipline and dedication, these habits can help one achieve long-term weight loss success.
If you’re obese and feel like you’ve tried all traditional methods with little to no success, bariatric surgery may be right for you. Call 855-984-3413 or contact Foothills Weight Loss Specialists online to register for a free seminar today.