Postoperative diet

Postoperative diet

For the stomach to heal completely after the surgery it is necessary to strictly follow the dietary instructions. If solid food is consumed too soon after the procedure, the stomach might get expanded which may worsenthe effect of the surgery and, in extreme cases, cause the sutured lines to break. Even after a few weeks food will have to be thoroughly chewed. Some types of food, especially dry and hard pieces of meat, may cause discomfort or pain, sense of tightness and congestion in the epigastrium. By eating slowly and calmly you will learn when the stomach is full and avoid the above unpleasant sensations. After the surgery 1/4 to 1/3 of the calories consumed before is usually sufficient. Too lavish meals may cause vomiting. It usually takes from a few to a dozen or so weeks to learn how to prepare and consume the meals properly. Thanks to the surgery, despite a small amount of the consumed food, you will be satiated and will not feel hunger. The aromatic and visual stimuli, not the stomach itself may be responsible for the increased appetite.
The type of liquids drank after the surgery is also significant. Such beverages as beer, coca-cola and other sweet drinks and milk high in fat may ruin the effects of the surgery. We also advise against fizzy drinks and drinking through a straw in the early postoperative period, as they may cause discomfort and feeling of flatulence. The healthy beverages include still water and green tea. The success of the surgery is in your hands.

8 goledenrules

1. Follow the dietary instructions, especially during the postoperative period.
2. Drink plenty of water.
3. Do breaks between eating and drinking.
4. Eat meals regularly during the day.
5. Choose balanced meals high in proteins.
6. Chew each bite thoroughly.
7. Enrichyour diet gradually.
8. If you feel full, stop eating even if there is only one bite left.
9. Enjoy rediscoveringthe new taste of natural, the least processed food, not spoilt by frying, excessive seasoning or heavy sauces.

 
Vitamins and minerals
It is necessary to supplement vitamins and minerals after the surgery. During the first month liquid vitamins (e.g. Biovital 2x10 ml) are recommended, then in pills (e.g. Centrum 1 pill a day).
The elements that are deficient most frequently include:
- iron
- calcium
- vitamin B1
- vitaminB6
- vitaminB12
- vitaminD3
- folic acid
- magnesium
Regular follow-up appointments will allow an early diagnosis and treatment of the vitamins and minerals deficiency and, as a result, will help to avoid its consequences.
After the gastric bypass it is necessary to take vitamins and minerals permanently (for the rest of the patient’s life). After the sleeve gastrectomy it is most crucial during the first years after the surgery.