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Weight loss surgery changes patients’ lives in many ways. From making everyday activities easier to increasing your energy and decreasing health complications. To ensure you continue to feel your best after your procedure, staying committed to healthy nutritional habits is of utmost importance.

As many surgeries involve either the reduction of stomach size or shortening the length of the small intestine, patients have to be mindful of the way their bodies will now absorb nutrients. In addition, it is uncommon for someone after bariatric surgery to meet 100% of their estimated nutritional needs with food alone. With most bariatric procedures, it is necessary to augment your diet with vitamins and minerals including Vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D.

In addition, protein is extremely important. Initially, after surgery, protein will help with the healing process. Down the road, protein remains the most important nutrient, versus carbohydrates and fats, because it will help you stay fuller longer, conserve muscle mass and maintain your metabolic rate.

“After gastric bypass, patients must prioritize the foods they eat, emphasizing various sources of protein, such as fish, dairy products, meat, beans, legumes, and soy. Fats and carbohydrates become secondary, but patients should still try to eat fresh vegetables and fruits.” (“Bariatric Surgery Postoperative Concerns,” n.d.)

For the first 30 days after surgery, you will gradually reintroduce solid foods to allow for proper healing of your stomach.

Phase 1 – Clear Liquids

For the first two days after your procedure, you will be placed on a clear liquid diet. During this period, you should stick to consuming water, ice chips, sugar-free Jell-O and popsicles, or any other sugar-free and carbonation free beverage. Remaining hydrated is highly important to your recovery, but you should never rush into consuming liquids, as this may make you feel sick. Sip slowly and consistently, while avoiding drinks that are too cold or hot, as these may upset your stomach as well.

Phase 2 – Full Liquids

Starting on the third day after your surgery, you will begin to reintroduce protein shakes. You will then begin to add protein powders, nonfat milk and milk alternatives, and creamy soups. Aside from protein drinks and soups, you will need to continue consuming up to 64 fluid ounces each day to stay hydrated.

Phase 3 – Puree Foods

Starting two weeks after surgery, patients can begin enjoying foods that require little to no chewing—similar to the consistency of baby food! This phase will last for one full week. You can continue with clear liquids and full liquids, but also begin to eat items like yogurt, scrambled eggs, low fat refried beans, ricotta or cottage cheese. Other suggestions include oatmeal, mashed potatoes, unsweetened applesauce, and pureed fruit. It is helpful to have a food processor or blender at home during this phase in case something is not smooth enough and you have to blend it further. Remain diligent about drinking water or other liquids between meals and prioritize the protein components of meals before filling up on less nutrient-dense foods.

Phase 4 – Soft Foods

Three weeks after surgery, you will begin eating soft foods. This phase also lasts for one full week. You may continue consuming clear liquids, full liquids, and pureed foods, but you may start adding baked fish, chicken, turkey, cooked soft cooked vegetables, and soft fruits. However, you will need to avoid coarse and “tough” foods such as high fiber breads, rice, nuts and seeds, tough meats such as steak, raw vegetables, and fruits with skins. Your protein and liquids goals are still vital, which is why some patients add protein supplements to the liquids they consume between meals. Enjoy three small meals each day and vary the components, such as meat, vegetables, and fruits to prevent boredom.

Phase 5 – Solids

Once patients have reached this stage, usually about 30 days post-op, regular and nutritious foods of most consistencies are allowed. To prevent decreases in your energy level, it is important to be mindful of protein intake, hydration, and consistency in taking vitamins and minerals. You have a limited stomach capacity, so it is vital to avoiding wasting it on foods that provide little to no nutritional value. Popular foods for bariatric patients are those that are low in sugar and fat while being high in protein.

Per the American Society of Bariatric Surgery:

“Protein-rich foods are important, with recommendations ranging from 60-100g of protein daily, depending on your medical conditions, type of operation and activity level. Limiting foods high in added sugar such as (cookies, cakes, candy, juice or other sweets) and refined carbohydrates (white breads, pastas, crackers, refined cereals) can improve your weight loss results.” (“Life after Bariatric Surgery,” n.d.)

Supplements will also become an important part of your ongoing nutrition. Your specific needs will dictate what vitamins and minerals to add, which you can review with your physician, nurse, and dietitian. Whether it’s a multivitamin or a specific supplement, such as calcium or Vitamin B12, sticking to this routine is crucial to recovery and well-being years after bariatric surgery.

Ask our Bariatric Surgeon about your Treatment Plan and Vitamin Needs

Knowing exactly what to expect with your treatment and recovery helps to reduce anxiety and allows you to feel confident about your procedure. Dr. Lutfi is an experienced bariatric surgeon who can supply you with all the information necessary to approach your weight loss surgery recovery. If you have questions about what to eat after surgery and what vitamins or minerals you will need to take, schedule a consultation today. With our help, support, and guiding hand, you can enjoy beautiful results from your treatment.

Bariatric Surgery Postoperative Concerns (n.d.) Retrieved from https://asmbs.org/resources/bariatric-surgery-postoperative-concerns-2

Life after Bariatric Surgery (n.d.) Retrieved from https://asmbs.org/patients/life-after-bariatric-surgery