Post-operatively gastric bypass meals change as you recover from surgery and get to a maintenance plan. Initially patients are put on a liquid diet for several days, before progressing to a blended diet. The blended diet meals consist of two to four tablespoons of pureed meats, vegetables, grains and fruits, although high protein sources are most desired. Following the blended diet, a soft food transitional diet is followed for about eight more weeks. The meal portions are very small, and may start out with six small meals per day, progressing to four then finally getting to three meals per day. The soft diet consists of many regular table foods that are tender and easy to chew, such as soft cooked vegetables and ground meats. High protein meals are also important in the transitional period as it helps repair your body after surgery. The life-long change in eating of gastric bypass meals often happens about three months after surgery. The stomach pouch can hold less than one cup of food per meal. Your portions will remain small throughout your life. Eating too much will create stomach pain and digestive problems. It is important to chew your food thoroughly to help with digestion, as larger pieces of food can cause a blockage and cause vomiting. Life-long eating habits should also include drinking most of your liquids between meals, since the liquid can make you feel full and prevent you from eating well. Some foods may never be tolerated again after gastric bypass and should be avoided, such as raw vegetables, and some carbohydrates. By trying new foods in small amounts, one at a time, you can determine which cause discomfort and should be avoided, for a while at least. Planning your meals after gastric bypass surgery will be important to your overall surgical and weight loss success. Most importantly, listening to your body and taking your vitamin supplements will help you maintain your health for years to come.
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