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If you are under the impression that bariatric surgery is a “magic bullet” type of solution for obesity, you are both right and wrong. Yes, bariatric surgery will help you to lose up to 70% of your excess weight and yes, it can help reverse serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea, but these successes rely heavily on patients following the prescribed post-op diet protocol.
You will be given a detailed post-op diet schedule that has been tested and proven to work, but only if you play your part. Sharon George, MS, RD, CDN created the NYBG post-op diet, and for the vast majority of patients, it is life changing.
Sample Foods in Weeks 1 to 4
During the first month of your post-op life, the foods you eat will be either liquid, soft, mushy or pureed, with protein as the main focus. Breakfast choices consist of one scrambled egg or 4 oz. of cottage cheese. Mid-morning, it’s time for an 8 oz. bariatric protein supplement and for lunch you can have 4 oz. of plain yogurt or Greek yogurt, or 3 oz. of tuna with 1 tsp. of low fat mayo.
Another 8 oz. protein supplement is taken mid-afternoon, and dinner consists of 2 oz. of white, flaky fish and ¼ cup of pureed green beans, or 3 oz. of turkey meatballs. As you’ve probably noticed, there is no sugar in this portion of the diet, and very little fat. This is your re-introduction to eating, and it’s crucial to get it right and kick your weight loss into high gear.
Easing Into the Transition
The reason your foods are so soft during this time is to help ease your body and your digestive system into this new arrangement. It’s important to remember that regardless of the procedure, your body is healing and your stomach is a fraction of the size it used to be. Along with the examples mentioned above, Sharon and your surgeon will determine if additional protein is required. In some cases, a post-op bariatric surgery meal replacement shake may work to provide extra nutrients and protein in liquid form.
Customized for Greater Success
Since everyone is different, post-op meal plans are customized through individual nutritional counseling. The concepts remain the same throughout each stage, but specific food choices and meal plans vary based on factors like work schedule, family responsibilities or religious beliefs. Modifying the plan to suit the individual creates a higher chance of success, which is what we are all about. Be sure to check back for Part Two of our bariatric post-op diet series: Months 2 & 3.
This post-op meal plan was developed by Sharon George a certified nutritionist, and registered dietitian at the New York Bariatric Group. Contact our staff today to learn more about our weight loss procedures.
