In order for weight loss surgery to work to its fullest impact, just the surgery itself is not enough. Remember that your post-surgery diet is also critical to attaining optimal results. It is very important that you discuss the diet that you are to follow after your weight loss surgery, in accordance to the kind you have gone through.

The right post surgery diet is highly essential as it aids in the healing process that is necessary for the stomach after the surgery. A diet plan must be in place immediately after the surgery. Ensure that you do not consume more than occasional infrequent sips of waters here and there after the surgery, and solids foods are a big NO!

Here are certain considerations you must be aware of as essential to a post-surgery diet plan.

The Liquid Diet

The liquid diet needs to be enacted for at least two weeks post operation. The whole idea here is to not over burden the small stomach pouch that is highly sensitive in this phase. In order for not too much strain to be borne by the pouch, water happens to be the safest bet. Other than water, liquid substitutes such as a clear, transparent broth without any vegetables or meat can be consumed, and even skim milk and fruit juices can be taken up in this phase.

Puree Based Foods

Moving on from the liquid diet is allowed after 2 weeks following the operation. At this point in time a puree based food diet is to be employed. It is allowed to have slightly textured foods as yourafter surgery diet in this phase that begins three weeks post operation. This is a step by step process, helping you move on to solid foods from liquids and pureed. Protein is extremely important here as it builds the muscle you need to function while you are losing weight simultaneously. These foods may include low fat yoghurt, pudding, peas, mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, pureed chicken or fish with skin peeled off etc.

Soft Or Tender Foods

Weight loss surgery diet in the fourth week post operation can include tender foods such as fish, ground turkey, soft fruits and cooked vegetables etc. However is it extremely important that you chew your food properly and don’t involve your stomach in a struggle of food digestion!  If you do not chew your food properly, you are very likely to experience vomiting, swelling in the stomach and irritation the very region too.

The intake of solid food as a post-surgery diet depends from person to person. It is usually advisable to start consuming solid food in the fourth week following the procedure. However some may face severe nausea and vomiting even then. In such a case, go back to the liquid or puree diet and then slowly transition on to a solid food diet or consult your dietician.

Foods To Avoid

Certain considerations need to be in place in regard to a post weight loss surgery diet plan. This is where you need to be mindful of what foods to avoid! Here is a list of foods that you must refrain from following a weight loss surgery.

• Nuts and seeds
• Popcorn
• Dried fruits
• Sodas and carbonated beverages
• Granola
• Stringy or fibrous vegetables, such as celery, broccoli, corn or cabbage
• Tough meats or meats with gristle
• Breads
• Jams
• Biscuits
• Syrups
• Honey
• Pies
• Cakes
• Crisps

These foods need to be avoided as some of them may cause blockages in the stomach while others may not be easily digestible or have little nutritional value and profile.