Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-10-17 Origin: Site
Proper nutrition plays a pivotal role in your recovery journey after post-bariatric surgery or any surgery. Your gastrointestinal system is in the process of readjusting, and this transition may require extra care, especially after undergoing the stress of anesthesia and medication. Consult your physician to create a customized post-surgery diet that suits your specific needs. Understanding and sensibly managing your dietary choices during this phase can help alleviate discomfort and promote a smoother recovery.
Post-Bariatric Surgery: Your Smaller Stomach
After undergoing bariatric surgery, whether it was elective or necessary, your stomach is now smaller. This alteration necessitates specific dietary guidelines to ensure adequate nutrition and may require supplementation, especially during the initial month following surgery.
According to the research study 'Nutritional Deficiencies in Obesity and After Bariatric Surgery,' conducted by experts from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, "Bariatric surgery can lead to several predictable nutritional deficiencies and can worsen pre-existing ones. It is critical to screen for nutritional deficiencies in obese patients prior to bariatric surgery and at regular intervals after bariatric surgery, and encourage adherence to supplementation."
Your physician may recommend various guidelines to manage your post-bariatric surgery nutrition effectively, such as:
Blended Diet: Drinking through a straw and consuming blended or liquefied foods or an immunonutrition drink for approximately 2-3 weeks.
Soft Foods: Gradually introducing soft foods for a few days to weeks, depending on your recovery progress, after the liquid phase.
Small Portions: Due to the reduced stomach size, your new stomach will only hold about one cup of food, compared to the four cups a normal stomach holds. Hence, consuming six small meals a day might be recommended.
High Protein: As per the 'Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism,' a daily intake of 60-120 grams of protein is suggested for weight loss and long-term lean body mass maintenance. Liquid protein or protein gelatin can provide 15-20 grams of protein per serving.
Adhering to a doctor-approved post-bariatric surgery diet is essential for optimal digestion and absorption of immune-supporting nutrients during this crucial recovery period. It is equally important to steer clear of refined sugars, dairy, and processed foods loaded with chemicals, as these can hinder your progress.
Post Surgery: An Overall Approach
Surgery, regardless of its nature, is a traumatic experience for your body. Prioritizing your health by adopting a proper post-surgery diet is crucial. Begin with a gentle approach and avoid taxing your body with hard-to-digest foods. While following your physician's advice, consider these post-surgery dietary tips:
Hydration: Proper hydration, as recommended by Livestrong, The American Cancer Society, and The Hospital for Special Surgery, helps flush out residual surgical medications. The amount of fluid needed might vary depending on the prescribed medication.
Wound Healing: Just as in post-bariatric surgery, a diet rich in amino acids found in proteins can accelerate healing and tissue regeneration. Include lean meats, fish, tofu, legumes, nuts, and protein drinks like sugar-free Pro-Stat Liquid Protein or ProSource Gelatein.
Brain and Digestive Health: Complex carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes provide sugar for your brain and promote regularity in your gastrointestinal tract, a vital aspect given the potential side effects of certain medications.
Healthy Fats: Maintaining your energy levels after surgery can be challenging. Opt for good fats such as avocados, extra virgin olive oil, nuts, and seeds to provide you with the necessary energy without making poor dietary choices.
Supplements: Vitamins A and C aid in wound healing; Vitamin D supports bone health; Vitamin E reduces free radicals, and Vitamin K assists in blood clotting. Consider incorporating a high-quality immunonutrition drink like Impact Advanced Recovery and include citrus fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, and fortified cereals in your supplement regimen.
Minerals: Zinc and iron supplements, in moderation, can aid in the healing process. Look for foods rich in these minerals, such as fish, poultry, eggs, legumes, raisins, and apricots.
Nutrition post-bariatric surgery and post-surgery presents an opportunity to reset your dietary and supplementation habits for better overall health. By choosing a diet rich in clean, unprocessed foods and incorporating regular physical activity, your recovery and long-term health may see significant improvements.
