After you undergo bariatric surgery, there are a number of factors you have to take into account regarding your diet. You cant eat the same way that you did prior to surgery given the changes to your digestive tract, and in many cases you will need to watch out for certain foods and watch what you eat as well. Well be sure to discuss this with you at our Orange County weight loss surgery center both before and after you undergo surgery. This is a complex matter and it will take you a little time to get used to your new relationship to food after bariatric surgery.

Bariatric Surgery Means Changes to Your Lifestyle

Something that we cannot stress enough is that its important for patients to realize that bariatric surgery doesnt mean immediate weight loss. The weight loss comes with a change in your whole lifestyle. Youre going to notice changes in your body shape as well as how your body reacts to different foods. Its important that you keep our suggestions and guidelines for your diet in mind as you move forward in life after surgery.

Changes in Diet

Whether you undergo an Orange County LAP-BAND surgery, a gastric bypass surgery, or a gastric sleeve surgery, you will transition into a new diet in steps. The first step will involve a room temperature liquid diet after surgery. This will consist mostly of:

    • Broth
    • Gelatin free from suga
    • Juices that are unsweetened

As you continue to heal, you will incorporate more types of foods into your diet. In the next phase, for instance, you will be able to have some ground up or pureed foods, such as yogurts, beans, egg whites, soft fruits, soft vegetables, and certain lean meats. Slowly you will transition into more solid foods, though you will need to chew them well and to eat your food slowly.

As you heal, youll be able to see which foods you can tolerate and which foods may be difficult to eat. You will want to be wary of granolas, nuts and seeds, bread and starches, and carbonated beverages. These foods can lead to discomfort when eating. The team at our bariatrics and weight loss surgery practice can provide a much more comprehensive list of eating dos and donts.

Changes in Appetite and Food Consumption

One thing that patients notice after undergoing bariatric surgery is that their appetite is reduced. Part of this is due to the fact that bariatric surgery causes patients to change their eating habits and really pay attention to what they are eating. Not only are patients generally eating healthier, they consume food in several small helpings throughout the day rather than a few large, calorie-heavy meals.

Because certain foods are easier to digest and consume than others after bariatric surgery, patients may find certain foods less pleasant. These foods tend to be starchy, calorie rich, and not particularly healthy. While it may seem like not being able to eat bread and have soda is unpleasant, patients rarely miss these food items and prefer others.

Essentially the added awareness of what theyre eating combined with the calorie reduction effects of the bariatric surgery lead to healthier diets and better eating habits.

Other Factors to Keep in Min

Well be sure to discuss more lifestyle changes at our in more detail. To discuss diet, exercise, and other important matters, be sure to contact our Orange County obesity and weight loss surgery center today.