Bariatric surgery has emerged as an effective solution for individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health complications. While the surgical procedure itself plays a crucial role in weight loss, the journey toward long-term success requires a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes. Before opting for surgery, it is essential to consult a registered dietitian who specializes in bariatric nutrition. 

A dietitian can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs and medical history. They will educate you about the dietary changes required pre and post-surgery and help you develop a nutrition plan that supports your weight loss goals. Working closely with a dietitian ensures that you receive the necessary nutrients while minimizing the risk of complications and deficiencies.

In the period leading up to your bariatric surgery, your healthcare team will provide specific guidelines to prepare your body for the procedure. These guidelines often include a pre-surgery diet that aims to reduce the size of the liver and shrink abdominal fat. This typically involves consuming a low-calorie, high-protein diet to facilitate weight loss and reduce the risk of complications during surgery. Adhering to these pre-surgery dietary guidelines will help optimize surgical outcomes and improve the safety of the procedure.

After bariatric surgery, your stomach's capacity will be significantly reduced, necessitating lifelong dietary modifications. The most common post-surgery diet is divided into phases, starting with a clear liquid diet and gradually progressing to pureed foods, soft foods, and finally, solid foods. It is crucial to adhere to these dietary phases strictly and follow the recommended portion sizes and eating guidelines provided by your healthcare team. This will maximize weight loss and promote long term positive lifestyle changes.

Here are five tips for following a healthy diet before and after bariatric surgery:

1. Increase your fluid intake

It’s recommended that you increase your fluid intake. Water being the most obvious one, but along with that, crystal light can be added to your regular water as well.

2. Eat a healthy diet 

A healthy diet is important for everyone, but it is especially important for people who are considering bariatric surgery. Make sure to eat plenty of vegetables and whole grains. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.

3. Take vitamins and supplements

Bariatric surgery can make it difficult for your body to absorb nutrients. Talk to your doctor about taking vitamins and supplements to ensure that you are getting the nutrients you need.

4. Get regular exercise

Exercise is important for everyone, but it is especially important for people who are considering bariatric surgery. Exercise can help you lose weight, improve your health, and reduce your risk of complications after surgery.

5. Be patient and persistent

Bariatric surgery is a major life change. It takes time to adjust to a new diet and lifestyle. Be patient with yourself and persistent in your efforts to make healthy changes.

Following these tips can help you increase your chances of a successful outcome after bariatric surgery.

In addition to the tips above, here are some specific dietary changes that you may need to make before and after bariatric surgery:

Before surgery:

• You may need to follow a liquid or pureed diet in the immediate period before surgery. This is dependent on your surgeon and also on the severity of obesity.
• You may need to take vitamins and supplements to ensure that you are getting the nutrients you need
• Making small dietary changes like smaller portions, avoiding high calorie food before surgery will make it easier to continue after surgery

After surgery:

• You will need to eat smaller meals, as you will feel full faster
• You will need to chew your food thoroughly
• You will need to avoid foods that are high in fat, sugar, or calories
• You may need to take vitamins and supplements to ensure that you are getting the nutrients you need

It is important to talk to your doctor about your specific dietary needs before and after bariatric surgery. They can help you create a plan that is safe and effective for you.

Here are some common challenges that people face when following a bariatric surgery diet:

1. Feeling hungry

After bariatric surgery hunger is reduced but one has to try to eat regularly.

2. Feeling full quickly

It is also common to feel full quickly after bariatric surgery. This is expected, because your stomach can't hold as much food.

3. Nausea and vomiting

Some people experience nausea and vomiting after bariatric surgery. This is usually due to eating too much or too quickly.

4. Constipation

Constipation is another common problem after bariatric surgery. This is usually short lived.

If you are experiencing any of these challenges, talk to your doctor. They can help you develop strategies to manage them.

Here are some tips for overcoming common challenges with a bariatric surgery diet:

1. Eat smaller meals

This will help you feel full without feeling too full.

2. Chew your food thoroughly

This will help you digest your food more easily.

3. Avoid foods that are high in fat, sugar, or calories 

These foods can make you feel full quickly and can also lead to weight gain.

4. Drink plenty of fluids

Fluids will help you stay hydrated and can also help you feel full.

5. Take vitamins and supplements

Following bariatric surgery, there is a need for vitamin supplements.Talk to your doctor about taking vitamins and supplements to ensure that you are getting the nutrients you need.

If you are struggling to follow a bariatric surgery diet, don't give up. Talk to us and we can provide you with support and guidance as you make these important changes to your diet and lifestyle. Get in touch with us today!