BOPDHB Patient Resources Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve Procedure | Page 55

• Eat three small meals and three snacks for the first three weeks. • It is normal to be managing only very small amounts at this stage. This may be as little as 3-4 teaspoons each serving. Handy Hints in the first 3 weeks • Eat slowly! Rest for two minutes between each mouthful. Your meal should take 20-30 minutes to eat. • Continue with scheduled meal times. Don’t be tempted to skip meals, as this can lead to nutritional deficiencies. You should have 5-6 very small meals every day. • You can use a high protein drink, (such as a milkshake, smoothie or Optifast) as a snack. This will give you a source of energy, as well as help to meet your fluid needs. • Avoid fizzy drinks, including diet coke cola and diet lemonade, as the bubbles in your stomach may cause bloating and discomfort. • Eat your protein foods first to avoid you getting too full to finish your meal. • Baby foods are useful when travelling or visiting. There are some tasty flavours available. • Make enough puree for a number of meals, which can then be frozen. This will provide you with a variety of choices, and be more convenient. 51