Life after Bariatric Surgery. Many patients return to work two to four weeks after surgery, with no activity restrictions. However, it might take up to five to six weeks for your energy levels to return.

One of the biggest recommendations after the surgery is following a strict diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies, as well as helping preserve muscle tissue.  Be mindful that each patient is different and tolerates food differently, so keep this in mind when you discuss food intake with you surgeon and nutritionist panel.

According to USCF health, your daily caloric intake should be between 500 and 700 calories for at least the first 12 months after surgery, not exceeding 1,000 calories a day.  Typically following a regimen that is high in protein and vegetables and low in carbohydrates and sugars is advised. The eating goal for a patient after bariatric surgery should be to get at least 60 to 80 grams of protein per day. High-protein foods include eggs, meats, seafood (including tuna and other fish), poultry, tofu and other soy products, milk, cottage cheese and Greek yogurt.

Normally, it may take six to eight weeks after surgery before the Patient is reaching the protein goal.

Some of the suggestions our surgeons recommend after surgery are:

-Eat slowly, take small bites, and chew thoroughly.

-Avoid rice, bread, raw vegetables, fresh fruits, and meats that aren’t easy to chew, such as pork and steak. Ground meats may be easier to tolerate.

-Eat balanced meals with small portions. In the initial period after surgery, you may only be able to tolerate one to two tablespoons of food at a time.

-Avoid the use of drinking straws, carbonated beverages, chewing gum and ice. They can introduce excess air into your surgically created pouch and cause discomfort.

-Avoid sugar, sugary foods and beverages, and fruit juices.

Over time, increase the variety of foods in your diet. Foods that are poorly tolerated initially – such as red meats, chicken, bread, and high-fiber fruits and vegetables – will become easier over time.

-Staying hydrated is important: Drink 1.5 to 2 liters of fluids daily, unless restricted by a medical condition.

-Alcoholic beverages will have a stronger effect than previously and should be avoided. Talk with your bariatric surgery team before consuming alcohol.

After getting surgery done, remember that you are embarking on a new life-style change. This is not a diet but a permanent part of life now. If you consider these healthy habits, you will have a positive long-term change and that’s exciting.

Lastly, you might need to take supplements if you aren’t getting the vitamins and minerals needed for you daily functions. Surgeons will agree that It’s common for gastric bypass patients to be deficient in iron, folate, calcium, and other important vitamins and minerals, so this isn’t a cause for worry, just be sure to take your supplements.

Learn more about our bariatric treatment options in our webpage.