Learn the Four Stages of a Post-Surgery Bariatric Diet

Photo by Khamkhor

Originally Posted On: https://alliedgeneralsurgery.com/blog/bariatric-diet

If you have considered bariatric surgery or had a consultation for surgical weight-loss, you likely have a basic understanding of what to expect both during and after bariatric surgery. Prior to receiving a bariatric procedure for weight-loss, it’s equally important to understand how following a bariatric diet will affect your post-surgery recovery.

Local Mishawaka and Elkhart area patients choose GVS for the compassion, friendliness, and expertise of Dr. Luis Benavente. Dr. Benevante is renowned for practicing innovative weight-loss approaches with improved patient outcomes.

Many people safely and successfully reap the rewards of weight-loss following bariatric surgery. As a result of the changes that your stomach and digestive system go through during bariatric surgery, it’s important to follow the post-surgery instructions provided by your surgeon. This includes following a strict bariatric diet.

A bariatric diet consists of several “stages.” This includes a progression from a liquid to a solid food diet. According to the University of Pittsburgh School of Health Sciences, the UPMC bariatric diet consists of:

Stage 1 Bariatric Diet. Patients begin with a full clear liquid diet (including broth, diluted juices, and popsicles), with a goal of between 48 and 64 ounces per day.

Stage 2 Bariatric Diet. Patients are directed to practice a high-protein pureed diet, such as mashed fruits, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, pureed vegetables, and other liquified foods.

Stage 3 Bariatric Diet. During this soft food bariatric diet phase, bariatric patients begin to introduce solid foods (with an emphasis on high protein foods), three small meals per day, and limited starches.

Stage 4 Bariatric Diet. The final “stabilization phase” of a bariatric diet focuses on maintaining a balanced high-protein, nutrient-dense diet. A bariatric diet sample menu during this final stage should include three small meals per day containing a lean meat or protein source, low-fat dairy, low-fat starches/whole grains, and fruit and vegetables.

The timeframe for each phase of the four-stage bariatric diet is determined by the type of surgery performed. Longevity varies depending on the bariatric procedure.

The reason it’s important to subscribe to a nutrient-rich diet following a bariatric operation is due to the resulting deficiencies in certain minerals and vitamins. Bariatric patients are generally instructed to take daily supplements (indefinitely) in addition to consuming foods high in Vitamin D, calcium, iron, and Vitamin B12. Multivitamin may also be taken daily, but consult our physicians.

If you would like to know more about bariatric diet requirements or would like more information about bariatric surgery, set up a consultation now. Or, call us any time with questions at 574-236-1888.