August 2022
Jacqui Lewis - BHSc Nutritional and Dietetic Medicine
Essential Foods to Eat After Weight Loss Surgery
Whether you undergo the Gastric Bypass or Gastric Sleeve procedure, your digestive system must prioritize certain foods, such as protein sources. However, it will most likely be unable to tolerate foods you may have been able to eat previously.
Knowing Weight Loss Surgery is a tool, you must commit to eating a nutrient-dense diet and taking Bariatric supplements. Although your dietitian can create a comprehensive eating plan for your individual needs,
the following foods are a great rule of thumb for what to eat after Weight Loss Surgery.
1. Lean Skinless Chicken
Protein after Bariatric Surgery is the golden ticket to weight loss success. It promotes satiety and helps to regulate blood sugar, so cravings are avoided.
2. Eggs
Soft scrambling an egg is a great way to get healthy protein and nutrients into the body while also being easy to digest.
However, avoid dry eggs and hard-boiled eggs after surgery.
3. Lentils
Lentils have 18 grams of protein and 15 grams of fiber per cup. This is great because the protein helps the body heal, and the fiber aids digestion after Weight Loss Surgery.
4. Yoghurt
Eating Greek yogurt that is non-fat and has no sugar is easily digested and gives an added boost of calcium to the healing body. For added flavor, vitamins and fiber, you can add chopped berries.
5. Fish
Fish is perfect for eating because it is low-calorie, high in protein, and packed with heart and brain-friendly omega-3 fatty acids! Saltwater fish are also a source of vitamin D, which helps curb depression and anxiety.
6. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is an excellent source of whole grains; however, you must wait six weeks after surgery until you can digest it.
7. Berries
Berries are so healthy because they are packed with antioxidants and low in sugar. Pick blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries for a sweet treat.
If eating them whole is an issue, they can be mashed or pureed. Do not add sugar, and avoid higher sugar fruits such as bananas and mangoes. Also, avoid dried fruits that are loaded with sugar.
8. Water
It is important to stay hydrated after Gastric Bypass Surgery, but small amounts of water must be consumed throughout the day consistently and regularly.
Avoid sodas or sugary drinks and drink 30 minutes before or after eating. It is best to drink pure water or natural, unsweetened teas.
Foods to Avoid After Bariatric Surgery
1. Spicy foods
2. Acidic foods
3. High fiber foods such as asparagus
Although they are not high in calories, they are difficult for your stomach to digest and can cause acid-reflux.
Other Essential Tips for Long-Term Success
- Make sure you prioritize consuming proteins over carbohydrates.
- Meet with your dietitian regularly.
- Get blood tests regularly to detect vitamin deficiencies.
- Listen to your body.
- Take your multivitamins every day – for life.