Patient Education Bariatric Nutrition Guide | Page 25

Regular / Long Term Diet after Gastric Bypass & Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

Regular / Long Term Diet after Gastric Bypass & Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

General Guidelines
• You may introduce fresh fruit and vegetables at this stage .
• Continue to eat 6 small meals per day , working slowly up to 1 - 1 1 / 2 cups 4 times daily by the end of the first year .
• Continue to drink at least 8 cups of fluid per day .
• Take fluids with you when you are away from home .
• Remember to drink only between meals , not with meals .
• Take vitamins and minerals as recommended by the dietitian and your surgeon .
• Eat balanced meals as much as possible . Remember to start with high protein foods , add whole grains , fruits , vegetables and skim / 1 % milk .
• Write down what you eat and drink every day or use an online calorie counting website / app to keep track of your daily intake .
Tips for Weight Loss
• Pay attention to your body ’ s feeling of fullness .
• Eat your meals at a table without TV or other distractions .
• Avoid snack items ( crackers , chips , etc .) and snacking between your 6 meals .
• Develop a physical activity plan with your doctor ’ s approval and STICK TO IT ! Make small goals with a long term goal of 250 or more minutes per week .
Protein Protein is important in helping to prevent hair loss and maintain muscle mass during weight loss . However , you can consume adequate amounts of protein and still have some hair loss . Iron and zinc intake , as well as some medications and the stress of surgery can all cause hair loss . This hair loss does not occur until 2 to 4 months after surgery . You can help prevent hair loss by eating adequate protein and taking vitamin / mineral supplements as recommended by your dietitian and surgeon .
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