A patient who has undergone bariatric surgery loses normal appetite during the first six weeks or more after surgery. Dieticians prescribe special light regimes to meet the nutritional needs of the patient. Quality food ensures proper healing and adequate nutrition.
Recipes for bariatric surgery patients are available from dieticians and health experts . Almost all these recipes focus on a good dose of protein, which is essential for growth and tissue repair . Protein-rich foods are lower in calories, and therefore can help maintain weight loss . The amount of protein intake required is calculated by a dietitian. Patients usually receive a couple of high protein supplements every day. Foods high in fat should be avoided as it can cause dumping syndrome and complicate the healing process. Besides fat , sugar should also be avoided because it is difficult to digest . Recipes for bariatric surgery patients usually supplement sugar with honey . The amount of food is kept low to avoid digestive problems.
Bariatric surgery involves changes in the stomach area . The patient is therefore limited to a liquid diet for the first two weeks after surgery . Only clear liquids such as diluted apple juice , gelatin and sugar-free chicken broth or beef are included in the diet. Artificially sweetened , non-carbonated beverages are permitted for one or two days. Soft drinks are strictly prohibited due to release gas , causing swelling and pain. Clear liquids are gradually replaced by thick liquids such as milk , yogurt , protein shakes , creamy soups , and desserts without sugar.
Two weeks after surgery, you can eat pureed foods . However , meals should be small and contain significant amounts of protein. By the fifth or sixth week, you can add more variety to the diet . The diet should now ideally contain fruits , vegetables , carbohydrates , low fat protein and fat for the heart. Normal appetite of a patient usually restores six weeks after surgery.
Special recipes are also prescribed to patients who are about to undergo bariatric surgery. Diet before surgery has a high amount of protein and very low in calories and carbohydrates. This diet is prescribed to reduce the risk of complications. The overall success rate of surgery increased strictly follow the prescribed diet .
