Bariatric surgeries are minimally invasive surgical procedures that restrict food intake or nutrient absorption by altering the digestive tract or interfering with hormonal production. When considering bariatric surgery, it is vital to think about the lifestyle and dietary changes that follow post-surgery. The food requirements vary from patient to patient, but some foods cannot be eaten after all types of bariatric surgery treatments.
Don’t be so scared of it! There are indeed foods and drinks to restrict. But a patient can still have plenty of food options after bariatric surgery. A meal that is high in protein level is optimal, and you must have 60 to 80 grams of protein daily.
Proteins are the most important nutrient that our body requires to prevent muscle and hair loss after any weight loss surgery. So the top priority is always maintaining a good protein portion. Later come non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach. Since overly starchy foods like fried potatoes, rice, pasta, etc., can lead to bloating and digestive issues, they are not included in the diet plan. The major focus is on maintaining a habit of having three balanced and small meals.
What to not Eat Post Different Types of Bariatric Surgery Treatments?
While patients are encouraged to eat certain foods, they are advised not to eat others. Some of the food that patients should not eat after getting some types of bariatric surgery procedures are:
Foods with Little or No Nutritional Value
Post-bariatric surgery, patients usually have reduced stomach size, which means, ultimately, they will eat less. So it is important to eat foods with good nutritional value to meet the body’s requirements and needs. They must also avoid foods with little or no nutritional value. This food usually includes starchy and processed items, including pastries, sweets, chips, and other fried foods. If patients continue to eat such food items, they may gain weight or become malnourished. It may also lead to Dumping syndrome, causing weakness, cold sweats, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Alcohol
After getting any types of bariatric surgery treatment, patients should eat healthily and take a proper diet with enough vitamins and minerals. Alcohol is high in calories and may take all the remaining space in your stomach that should be given to good nutrients. Moreover, one of the drawbacks of alcohol is that the absorption of alcohol increase drastically after surgery, making it somewhat dangerous for patients. Instead, patients should drink two liters or up to 8 glasses of water. This is important to stay hydrated and wash out toxins through urine.
Dry Foods
Since the space in the stomach reduces, the diet also restricts. And patients may not be able to drink enough water while they eat. This can cause a patient to drink less water, causing dehydration and constipation. So patients mustn’t consume dry foods like nuts and granola. However, do not be discouraged, as you will be able to eat these foods after healing properly with time.
Starchy Food Items
Starchy foods are hard to process and are not a good source of healthy nutrients. Thus, patients post-bariatric surgery are advised to avoid bread, rice, pasta, and fried potatoes. You do not have to reject these high-starch foods completely, but it’s best to avoid them in the beginning. When you eat them, try to have very small portions. This can help you ensure that you do not overeat.
Fibrous Fruits and Vegetables
Food items like celery, corn, broccoli, cabbage, etc., are not a good choice of food post all types of bariatric surgery treatments. Fibrous fruits and vegetables are hard to digest and may also cause bloating. Patients may be able to eat these vegetables slowly as they adjust their diet plan, but initially, eating skinless and soft vegetables.
If you are interested in any of the available types of bariatric surgery treatments, you should be mindful of many things. It is important to discuss your medical history, expectations, and dietary changes before undergoing the procedures.
