Food restrictions after obesity surgery are important both for a healthy recovery during this period and for the long-term success of the surgery. Therefore, patients must follow their doctor’s instructions and recommendations.

Why Are Food Restrictions Important After Obesity Surgery?

Obesity surgery comprises different procedures, each of which brings significant changes to the patient’s digestive system. These interventions require certain food restrictions until the healing process is complete. Otherwise, consuming certain foods can lead to indigestion, excessive gas, and digestive problems.

These problems can not only negatively impact the recovery process but also increase the risk of various complications, from surgical side effects to other risk factors related to obesity.

Obesity surgery is performed to help patients lose weight rapidly and sustainably. The success of these surgeries is crucial. However, post-operative dietary habits are equally important. When the necessary restrictions are followed, weight loss can occur rapidly, and obesity-related risks can be reduced or eliminated.

Failing to adhere to dietary restrictions and prescribed diets can limit the effectiveness of the surgery and, in some cases, render it ineffective. For all these reasons, food restrictions after surgery are crucial.

Foods to Avoid After Surgery

After obesity surgery, there are several restrictions and limitations on the diet. The primary focus of the restrictions in the first three months is on allowing stitches to heal and the digestive system to adapt. The restrictions in later stages are aimed at maintaining the long-term effects of the surgery.

Here is a list of foods that should not be consumed after obesity surgery:

• In the First Month:

  • Broccoli, cabbage, and gas-inducing vegetables
  • Coffee (decaffeinated coffee is acceptable)
  • Spicy foods
  • Oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits

• In the First Three Months:

  • Gas-producing legumes
  • Raw vegetables
  • Olives
  • Salads
  • Lettuce and arugula

• In the First Six Months:

  • Alcohol
  • Carbohydrates
  • Pickles

• Always:

  • Carbonated beverages
  • Sweets
  • High-calorie foods

Please note that this list is a general guideline for post-obesity surgery dietary restrictions. It’s essential to remember that each patient’s history and the specific procedure they underwent may lead to variations in the recommended dietary restrictions. Therefore, it is crucial for patients to discuss this with their doctors and receive detailed information about their specific dietary guidelines after surgery.

How Should Post-Obesity Surgery Nutrition Be?

Post-obesity surgery nutrition is a crucial aspect of the recovery process. It can be divided into two main phases: the period until the digestive system fully adjusts and heals, and the period after complete recovery.

Here are the details of nutrition during the recovery period:

• In the initial days, only liquids are consumed. This can include clear broths, skim milk, and unsweetened fruit juices.
• Patients can take very small sips of these liquids every hour.
• After the initial days, pureed foods are introduced.
• Vegetable and fruit purees are essential options during this phase.
• There should be at least a 30-minute gap between meals and liquid intake.
• Meals should be eaten very slowly.

After consuming pureed foods for 5-10 days, patients can transition to soft and textured foods. Beyond this point, they can gradually reintroduce a regular diet.

Due to the surgery, the body will require much less food than before. Therefore, it is crucial to establish a proper diet that meets the body’s needs and adhere to it. After completing the healing process, the details of patient nutrition are as follows:

• The daily diet should contain at least 60-80 grams of protein.
• Meals should be eaten slowly and chewed thoroughly.
• A daily intake of at least 2 liters of water is necessary, with slow sips.
• There should be a 30-minute gap between meals and liquid intake.
• Vitamin and mineral supplements may be used if deemed necessary.

When these guidelines are followed, there should be no issues after obesity surgery, and the operation will lead to lasting results. It is important to remember that these rules may vary for each patient, and the guidelines to be followed are those provided by the doctor.