How much food will my stomach hold after surgery?
Once your stomach has healed, your stomach will hold about ½ to 1 cup of food or liquid.
How long will it take my stomach to heal?
It will take about 6 weeks for your stomach to heal after surgery.
Will I stay healthy eating the recommended amounts of calories and food?
You will remain healthy eating the smaller amounts of food and reduced calories that bariatric patients consume after surgery. Friends and family members may be concerned about the small amounts of food, but the program is designed to meet your body’s needs.
Will bariatric surgery change my eating habits?
After bariatric surgery, you will develop a new, healthy eating pattern. Your new stomach is smaller and you will feel full after eating less food. Meals will be smaller. You will have to chew your food very well and take smaller bites.
Will I be hungry after surgery?
Hunger hormone ghrelin is actually produced in the stomach. During bariatric surgery, specifically laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, the size of the stomach is significantly reduced and so the hunger hormone. Some people are not hungry after surgery. However, you must achieve your post-operative nutritional goal of 64 oz. fluid every day to prevent dehydration. The next goal you will need to meet is your protein goal. You will need about 60 to70 grams of protein every day.
Is there anything I cannot eat after bariatric surgery?
The food you consume after surgery must be low-fat and sugar-free. Some people have food intolerances after bariatric surgery. If you find that you do not tolerate something, in the beginning, try that food item again later. You may be able to tolerate that particular food later on. Many patients find it difficult to tolerate red meat for at least 6 months after surgery. Coconut is something you should always avoid. You must also avoid fibrous foods such as celery, asparagus, broccoli stalks, corn and pineapple.
Does the new stomach stretch after surgery?
There is no scientific proof that the new stomach stretches. However, as you heal, it relaxes and thus patients find that they can gradually consume more food at a time. Weight loss will be maintained as long as you avoid large amounts of high caloric food
Do I really need to drink 2 litres of fluid every day?
Yes, you need this much fluid to remain hydrated. There is water in the food we eat. After surgery, you are eating smaller amounts of food. As a result, you are not receiving as much water every day as you normally would. Drinking water will also help diminish food cravings.
What happens when I crave high-fat and high-sugar foods?
Craving may be caused by an emotional or hormonal need. It can be very difficult to have restrictions on your diet. Space your meals out evenly during the day to help prevent cravings. Drink more water and/or go take a walk if you are craving food. Distract yourself with activity and you will find cravings will subside.
How do I know I am eating enough food?
You should feel full after eating a small amount of food. Your portion size should be no more than ½ cup to 1 cup of food at each meal. If you feel that you are having problems with food choices, call the Bariatric Coordinator or the Bariatric Dietitian for help.
Can I drink soft drinks after bariatric surgery?
Carbonated beverages will cause gas that is very painful after surgery. It is not recommended that you drink soft drinks after bariatric surgery. If you insist on drinking soft drinks, make sure that the soft drinks are sugar-free (diet).
Can I drink coffee and tea after surgery?
Yes, but caffeinated drinks can cause dehydration. Decaffeinated beverages are a better choice after bariatric surgery. Use only a sugar substitute or low-fat creamer in your coffee or tea.
Can I drink alcohol after surgery?
Alcohol will slow down your weight loss. Alcohol contains empty calories, which are of no nutritional value. After your surgery, alcohol will enter your bloodstream much quicker. You can become intoxicated much quicker after consuming only a small amount of alcohol. An the occasional glass of wine or a cocktail may be ok. Check with your doctor. Beer is carbonated and should be avoided.
Can I smoke after bariatric surgery?
No. Smoking stimulates gastric secretions in your stomach. These gastric secretions are very irritating to your new stomach. Irritation of your new stomach can cause ulcers and chronic gastritis.
Will I lose my hair after surgery?
Hair loss may be a result of having several life-altering events occurring at the same time. You just had major surgery, changes in your eating habits and rapid weight loss. Some patients will have hair loss about 3 to 5 months after surgery. Hair loss is temporary and your hair will grow back. Take your vitamins and keep your protein levels up to lessen the chance and amount of hair loss.
Will my weight loss reach a plateau?
You will eventually reach a plateau after surgery. You may notice that you are not losing pounds or inches. Review your food choices and activity levels. Consult with the Bariatric Dietitian or Bariatric Coordinator for solutions.