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A guide to a balanced diet after weight loss surgery

Two people eating a balanced diet after weight loss surgery

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Getting a balanced diet that provides you with all the nutrients you need for health is an essential part of weight management. Each food group provides you with different nutrients and it is important to not unnecessarily cut out any food groups from your diet as you will be missing out on valuable nutrients which may lead to a negative impact on your health. Being too restrictive with your diet can often trigger cycles of overeating and then restriction and so on. Ensuring you are getting the right number of portions from each food group will help you to feel satisfied with your food intake and can help promote weight loss.

 

General guidelines for maintaining a healthy diet after weight loss surgery

Follow your healthcare team’s recommendations

Strictly adhere to the dietary guidelines provided by your healthcare team. Attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments.

 

Start with clear liquids

In the initial days post-surgery, focus on clear liquids to stay hydrated. Gradually progress to full liquids and then pureed and soft foods as recommended.

 

Prioritise protein

Emphasise protein-rich foods to support healing and prevent muscle loss. Include lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, and legumes in each meal.

 

Portion control

Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to prevent overeating. Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly to aid digestion and avoid discomfort.

 

Hydration is key

Sip water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid drinking with meals to prevent overstretching the stomach pouch.

 

Choose nutrient-dense foods

Opt for nutrient-dense, whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid empty-calorie foods, sugary snacks, and processed foods.

 

Mindful eating

Be mindful of portion sizes and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Avoid emotional eating and focus on the nutritional value of your food.

 

Include fibre in your diet

Gradually introduce fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to promote digestive health. Fibre also helps with satiety and can aid in weight management.

 

Limit added sugars and fats

Minimise the intake of added sugars, high-calorie beverages, and fatty foods. Choose healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil in moderation.

 

Take prescribed supplements

Follow your healthcare team’s recommendations for vitamin and mineral supplements. Common supplements may include calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, and others.

 

Monitor nutrient levels

Regularly monitor nutrient levels through blood tests as advised by your healthcare provider.

 

Gradual food introductions

Introduce new foods one at a time to identify any potential intolerances or sensitivities. Avoid carbonated beverages and certain foods that may cause discomfort.

 

Be cautious with alcohol

Limit alcohol consumption, as tolerance may be reduced after surgery. Be aware of the potential interactions between alcohol and medications or the altered metabolism post-surgery.

 

Stay active

Engage in regular physical activity as recommended by your healthcare team. Exercise supports overall health, aids in weight management, and enhances wellbeing.

 

Seek professional guidance

Consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist specialising in post-bariatric surgery nutrition for personalised advice.

 

It is common knowledge that to lose weight, you need to consume fewer calories than you are burning. The problem with this is that the lighter you become, the fewer calories your body needs, and to top it off, hormonal changes occur to make you hungry and feel less full! No wonder it’s so hard to keep weight off – and sure enough, no good quality evidence exists to suggest that eating less and exercising more alone results in a sustained reduction in weight if you are living with excess weight.
Of course, eating less is only successful if you are eating a well-balanced diet. The key is to consider any changes you make to your diet as permanent – not short-term or restrictive changes that won’t work in the real world.

Remember, individual needs may vary, and these guidelines provide a general overview. Always consult with your healthcare team for personalised recommendations based on your specific surgery type, health status, and progress.

To enquire with Streamline about the weight loss procedures we offer, please call 0333 016 3030 or fill in the online enquiry form below.

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