Copyright © 2007
All Rights Reserved
What to Eat Post-Weight Loss Surgery
Weight loss surgery is more popular than ever. With most weight loss doctors almost guaranteeing good outcomes and lots of extra pounds gone for good, many obese people are taking notice. While it is true that weight loss surgeries can take off a large amount of weight, these surgeries cannot work alone. Instead, the patient must follow a strict diet and exercise routine that compliments the surgery.
Following any type of weight loss surgery, the stomach will be much smaller. This causes a smaller area where food can be held. The result is that a patient can only eat very small meals. The reduced caloric intake leads to the weight loss. In addition, there are many foods that should be completely avoided right after surgery and for the long term. Eating the wrong kinds of foods can hamper weight loss efforts and make the person very sick. Also, eating the wrong kinds of foods can cause serious obstructions in the new stomach pouch and in the intestines.
Some of the foods that are off limits include foods that contain stringy or fibrous matter or foods that are dried, doughy or sticky.
-
Foods will seeds should also be avoided because of the possibility of obstruction.
-
Fruits and vegetables on the no list include oranges, and other citrus fruits, celery, spinach, corn and asparagus.
-
Rice, pasta and doughy, non-toasted breads should not be eaten following weight loss surgery.
-
Nuts, popcorn, coconut and shrimp can also cause serious obstructions.
-
Peanut butter and syrupy foods should be avoided as well.
In the first few weeks following weight loss surgery, all patients are restricted to liquids and soft foods. As their wounds heal, they can gradually add in foods as long as they are not on the off-limits list and are chewed very thoroughly. The best foods are high quality foods that are lean and cooked without added fats or grease. Fluids are important following weight loss surgery, but should not be taken with meals. This can cause the food to pass too quickly through the digestive system and can lead to diarrhea.
>> Who is a Good Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery? >>
