A New Way of Eating
A key to remember with your new diet is " eat slowly and chew each bite very slowly and completely". and " Do not swallow food until it is smooth". Keep in mind the opening between your new stomach pouch and your intestines is very small. Food that is not chewed well can block this opening.
Take at least 20 to 30 minutes to eat a meal.
If you vomit or have pain under your breastbone during or after eating, you may be eating too fast.
Eat 6 small meals throughout the day instead of 3 big meals.
Do not snack between meals.
Stop eating as soon as you are full.
Some foods you eat may cause some pain or discomfort if you do not chew them completely. Some of these are
Pasta
Rice
Bread
Raw vegetables
Meats, especially steak
"Dry foods" popcorn and nuts
"Fibrous rich foods" celery and corn.
You will need to drink up to 8 cups (2 L) of water or other calorie-free liquids every day.
Keys to remember for fluid intake:
Do not drink anything for 30 minutes after you eat food. Also, do not drink anything while you are eating. The liquid will fill you up. This may keep you from eating enough healthy food. It can also lubricate food and make it easy for you to eat more than you should.
Take small sips when you are drinking. Do not gulp.
Ask your provider before using a straw, since it may bring air into your stomach.
Follow Your Diet Carefully
The Key is Increasing your Protein Intake:
Protein may be the most important of these foods early after surgery. Your body needs protein to build muscles and other body tissues, and to heal well after surgery. Low-fat protein choices include:
Skinless chicken.
Lean beef (chopped meat is tolerated well) or pork.
Fish.
Whole eggs or egg whites.
Beans.
You will need to make sure you are getting enough protein, vitamins, and minerals while you are losing weight quickly. Eating mostly protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will help your body get the nutrients it needs.
Dairy products, which include low-fat or nonfat hard cheeses, cottage cheese, milk, and yogurt.
After gastric bypass surgery, your body will not absorb some important vitamins and minerals. You will need to take these vitamins and minerals for the rest of your life:
Multivitamin with iron.
Vitamin B12.
Calcium (1200 mg per day) and vitamin D. Your body can absorb only about 500 mg of calcium at a time. Divide your calcium into 2 or 3 doses during the day. Calcium must be taken in the "citrate" form.
You may need to take other supplements also. Talk to your HCP for information and supplemental guild lines
You will need to have regular checkups with your provider to keep track of your weight and to make sure you are eating well. These visits are a good time to talk with your provider about any problems you are having with your diet, or about other issues related to your surgery and recovery.
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