Do’s and Don’ts for Your Diet After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Deciding to undergo gastric sleeve surgery is a life-changing decision that requires significant commitment both before and after the procedure. Following the surgery, it is crucial to make the necessary lifestyle changes to ensure the success of the surgery. Among these changes, one of the most significant is to adapt to a new diet that will help you maintain a healthy weight. In this article, we explore the do’s and don’ts for your diet after gastric sleeve surgery.

Do: Stick to a High-Protein Diet

After surgery, the volume of food you consume will be significantly reduced. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you eat nutrient-dense foods, especially those high in protein. Proteins help to promote healing after the surgery and are essential in maintaining muscle mass. Include foods like lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and protein supplements in your diet to maintain a high-protein diet.

Don’t: Drink Beverages During Meals

Drinking liquids with meals can cause the stomach pouch to expand, which can lead to discomfort and even vomiting. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid drinking liquids with meals, both during and after the meal. Instead, space out your fluid intake throughout the day, and drink at least 30 minutes before or after meals.

Do: Stay Hydrated

Although drinking fluids with meals is not recommended, it is crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day. Aim to drink at least eight cups of water or other low-calorie, non-sugar containing fluids per day to keep your body hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will also help reduce the risk of dehydration and constipation, which is common after gastric sleeve surgery.

Don’t: Overeat or Eat Too Quickly

After surgery, it is essential to pay more attention to your body’s signals of hunger and fullness. Overeating, even of healthy foods, can cause discomfort, bloating, and regurgitation, leading to weight gain. It would be best to take small bites, chew your food slowly and thoroughly and stop eating the moment you feel full.

Do: Incorporate Whole Foods in Your Diet

After gastric sleeve surgery, your body requires an adequate supply of essential nutrients. Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. It’s essential to incorporate these nutrients into your diet to meet your body’s nutritional needs and ensure overall health.

Don’t: Eat Foods High in Sugar or Fat

High-fat or sugary foods are empty calories that may lead to weight gain and nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, they can cause disordered eating patterns and lead to nutritional deficiencies. It would be best to avoid processed foods, fast foods, sweets, and high-fat snacks as part of your post-surgery diet.

Conclusion

Gastric sleeve surgery is a life-changing procedure that requires significant commitment to maintaining healthy lifestyle changes. Making the necessary dietary changes to your diet, as outlined above, is a crucial part of your journey towards a healthier, fulfilling life after surgery. With discipline, dedication, and guidance from professionals, you can achieve and maintain a healthy weight and enjoy the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.