Sunday, June 9, 2013

What Is The Diet After The Gastric Band Weight Loss Surgery?

The gastric band weight loss surgery is the first step towards losing weight. After the surgery. the adaptation to a new diet is the hardest part for most patients. Patient must follow the following diet stages for at least 4 weeks after the weight loss surgery. In the long term, patients need to keep to a number of specific dietary rules to ensure the gastric band is as effective as possible. It is advised by both the weight loss surgeon and the dietitian that the gastric band diet should be considered as a lifetime commitment for optimal results.

What Is The Diet Intake Post Gastric Band Surgery?

As the body adjusts to the gastric band or lap band, dietary changes progress from:

  1. Fluid diet: 1-2 days
  2. Liquidized diet: 2 days-2 weeks
  3. Soft/Pureed diet: 2-4 weeks
  4. Solid diet (normal consistency): + 4 weeks

Every patient is different and therefore people can progress at differing stages. The above time scale is only a guide but a good snapshot of what to expect.

Whilst the stomach adjusts to the band and the body is healing post surgery, it is important that patients eat a balanced diet with adequate calories and protein to help promote recovery. A multivitamin supplement is of benefit, as it ensures you receive all vitamins and minerals that the body needs until patients reach the solid diet phase. It is important to discuss meal plans and diet with either the bariatric surgeon or dietitian for guidance.

What Are The Top 5 Tips To Help Patients Get The Most Of Their Gastric Band or Lap Band Weight Loss Surgery?:

1 - Chew your food slowly and thoroughly before swallowing.

2 - Do not eat and drink at the same time. Drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day to avoid dehydration and help with recovery.

3 - Do not lie down after eating which might cause acid re-flux and heartburn.

4 - Eat 5 times per day. Eating regularly will insure proper nutrition and curve hunger.

5 - Avoid high caloric foods which are easily digestible. Foods including ice-cream, milk shakes, chocolate and cakes become liquids in the mouth once chewed which in turn pass through without any restrictions from the band. This is a common mistake made by patients which may reduce the potential of losing weight at the desirable rate.

What Foods Do Patients Post Gastric Band Surgery Need To Restrict or Avoid?

Fibrous Foods:

  • Asparagus
  • Broccoli
  • Pineapple
  • Rhubarb
  • Oranges
  • Dried Fruits

Sticky Foods:

  • Coconuts
  • Crisps
  • Bread
  • Pasta

Foods Difficult to Digest:

  • Nuts
  • Grilled Meats

Every patient is different and therefore individual patients may experience different food in-tolerances. The above list is only a rough guide and should not replace advice from either the bariatric surgeon or dietitian.