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The Gastric Bypass Diet

After the gastric bypass procedure, the gastric bypass diet starts and it has several stages, from “liquids only” to small meals of soft, high-protein foods. Meals on the new menu will be much smaller than normal, and the foods eaten must be very smooth in texture. On all stages of the diet, it is especially important to drink enough water, and to take vitamin and mineral supplements:

1. Clear Liquids - the first stage of the gastric bypass diet, clear liquids (meaning beverages that you can almost see through), usually lasts for a day or two after the operation. The clear liquid diet starts with sips of water, and then allows foods like sugar-free juice, diet gelatin, clear broth/bouillon and flat (no fizz) diet soda in small amounts.
2. Low-Fat Full Liquids – if no problems are experienced with clear liquids, the gastric bypass diet advances to high-protein liquids like diet. This stage of the diet lasts for 1 to 2 weeks. Most patients also begin taking a chewable multivitamin/ mineral supplement at this stage.
3. Soft/Puree Diet - the physician will indicate when it is time to advance to the soft or puree diet. Some patients are able to start this diet after they have been out of the hospital for about two weeks. Others may need to wait longer. The puree diet includes very soft, high-protein foods like scrambled egg, low-fat cheese or blenderized lean meats like tuna fish, chicken, or pork. Some patients find it more convenient to use strained baby foods. It is important to make sure that all foods are pureed or extremely soft and smooth in texture.
4. Regular Diet – the regular diet starts about 8 weeks or later after gastric bypass surgery. While this diet includes all 5 food groups, it is important to start with high-protein foods, like lean meats or milk, at every meal. Each meal or snack should be small, with liquids consumed in between meals. Ask a dietitian for advice on planning an individualized regular diet pattern.

In all stages of the gastric bypass diet, the way to eat is just as important as what to eat. Things to remember:

• The new stomach can only hold 1/2 cup at a time
• Eat 3 to 6 small meals a day
• Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly
• Avoid chewing gum;it could block the stomach outlet if swallowed
• Do not overeat
• Relax and enjoy your new life.

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RSS Trackback URL 12. February 2007 (17:49)
Filed under: Diets, Weight loss

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