What Can You Eat in the First Weeks After Weight Loss Surgery?
After weight loss surgery such as a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, it takes at least 5 to 6 weeks to move from liquids back to normal food textures like salads and meat. Meals stay small throughout that time, around one metric cup, which is roughly the size of your fist.
The Diet Moves Through Stages and Takes at Least 5 to 6 Weeks
You begin on liquids only and gradually work toward normal textures. Some people take longer to manage tougher foods like meat or carbohydrates such as bread, pasta and rice. Taking your time through each stage is the safest way to let your stomach heal.
Protein and Fluids Matter More Than Anything Else at This Stage
Not getting enough protein and fluid is the most common issue our dietitian sees after surgery. Aim for a source of protein at every meal, and target at least 1.5 litres of low calorie drinks each day. If protein intake falls short, you risk losing muscle, which affects strength and metabolism. Within that small one cup meal, aim for roughly half a cup of protein alongside a little vegetables and carbohydrate rather than filling the cup with carbohydrates alone.
Vitamins Are Part of Life After Weight Loss Surgery, Not Just the First Weeks
Because surgery changes the structure of your stomach, vitamins are needed long term, not just while you are healing. Which vitamins you need can vary from person to person and is guided by your blood test results. Your surgical team will advise what to take, and regular blood tests help make sure your levels stay on track.
More detail is on our preparing for eating page, written by our accredited practising dietitian Nicole Tan.
If you are considering your options, call us on (03) 9760 2777 or request an appointment through our website.