Why Is Bariatric Eating Important?
Patients need to evaluate the role food plays in their life and how they use to cope with stress, emotions, anxiety, boredom and other feelings. After surgery, they are no longer able to use food to comfort or cope. The doctor will guide them through each phase of the diet plan. Successful weight loss depends entirely on making good food choices and being as physically active as possible.
Following surgery, most people experience a "honeymoon period" for about four to six months when they have no appetite for food. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and pain. Studies indicate that gastric bypass surgery affects at least eight metabolic pathways, which may reduce cravings and cause the body to burn more fat.
Portion sizes for meals should be no more than eight ounces. Bariatric eating helps patients stay healthy and achieve the desired weight.
Dietary Guidelines after Surgery
People who undergo weight loss surgery advance gradually through four or five diet phases. Dietary recommendations vary depending on the type of procedure. In general, patients are not allowed to eat for one or two days after surgery. They can only consume clear liquids like broth, strained soup, unsweetened juice, water, tea, soymilk, artificially sweetened non-carbonated beverages and diluted fruit juices. The doctor may also prescribe protein drinks.
Within a week of bariatric surgery, patients can add full liquid to their diet. This category includes skim milk, protein shakes and smoothies, cream soups, yogurt, vegetable juice and sugar-free puddings. Carbonated beverages are not allowed.
In the third phases of the diet, patients may eat foods with pureed consistency. They are allowed to consume oatmeal, applesauce, scrambled eggs, sugar-free popsicles, low-fat cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, egg whites, diced peaches, soft-cooked vegetables and baby food. Six weeks following surgery, dieters can gradually move to solid foods.
It's recommended to drink plenty of liquid to prevent dehydration and replace normal water loss. Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass. Patients are encouraged to drink high-protein drinks. Eating large meals can cause problems. It's advisable to take up to six small meals a day. White bread, rice, sweets, high-fat foods and alcoholic beverages should be avoided.
source : The Importance of Bariatric Eating Post-Surgery
