Healthy Eating Tips after Surgery

Bariatric Surgery Diets Emphasize Protein

If a sensible diet is followed, bariatric surgery can produce significant weight loss. Typically the bariatric diet will largely emphasize protein.

Patients should eat protein first at every meal since the new stomach pouch the operation has created will fill faster than before surgery. Protein supplements may be recommended as well.

Good protein sources include lean meats, eggs, and dairy protein. Ask Marina Weight Loss’ nutritionist or bariatric nurse about appropriate sources of protein.

Produce: Staples of a Healthy Diet

Fruits and vegetables are vital components of a good diet, as well. Vegetables should be prepared in a healthy manner, such as steaming, while high-calorie ingredients, such as butter or creamy dressings, should generally be avoided. If possible, fruit should be fresh, or canned in water rather than syrup. Some foods may be hard for you to swallow or digest after weight loss surgery. These foods vary from patient to patient, but we will review a list of potential “problem foods” with you prior to your operation.

Healthy Recipes

Lots of resources are available online and in print to help you prepare healthy food. A good weight control diet can also be delicious, and the following list of ideas should help get you started.

• The Mayo Clinic maintains an index of healthy recipes for download.
• WebMD also maintains a section of its site devoted to healthy cooking.
• Online bookstores, the local books-and-music shopping paradise, or your local library are sure to have a huge selection of books full of delicious ideas.
• The Food Network has recipes for healthy living, as well.
• Cooking Light has a great range of healthy and delicious recipes, all of which include precise directions and detailed nutritional information
• If you’re looking for a gourmet option, check out the Healthy section on Epicurious which collects recipes from top food magazines including Bon Appetite and Gourmet

When evaluating a new recipe, be sure to follow any advice given to you by Marina Weight Loss’ dietitian. The dietitian will also be able to make suggestions for new sources of healthy recipes. Losing weight should taste good. We recognize this. Our Marina del Rey office has lots of information about diet plans after weight loss surgery.