The Gastric Bypass Eating Plan

The gastric bypass diet unfolds in several stages, from "liquids only" to small meals of soft, high-protein foods. Meals on the new menu will be much smaller than normal, and the foods eaten must be very smooth in texture. On all stages of the diet, it is especially important to drink enough water, and to take vitamin and mineral supplements
as prescribed.

 The stages of the eating plan

1. Clear Liquids -- The first stage of the gastric bypass diet, clear liquids (meaning beverages that you can almost see through), usually lasts for a day or two after the
operation. The clear liquid diet starts with sips of water, and then allows foods like, the, coffee, sugar-free juice, milk, yoghurt.
2. Soft/Purée Diet -- The Doctor will indicate when it is time to advance to the soft or purée diet. Some patients are able to start this diet after a couple of days, others may need to wait longer. The purée diet includes very soft, high-protein foods like scrambled egg, low-fat cheese or cottage cheese, or blended lean meats like tuna fish, chicken, or pork.
 It is important to make sure that all foods
are puréed or extremely soft and smooth in
texture. Remember that your pouch is akin to that of a weaning baby's stomach. Treat it to bland foods to begin with and as you feel able, add flavours and textures gradually and slowly. It's a steep learning curve and you should expect to feel nausea at times when something new has been consumed. Don't worry, this is normal and will pass.
3. Regular Diet -- The regular diet starts about 4 weeks or later after gastric bypass surgery. While this diet includes all food groups, it is important to start with high-protein foods, like lean meats or milk, at every meal. Each meal or snack should be small, with liquids consumed in between meals but not at the same time as eating.

The ABC's of Eating Right
 

In all stages of the gastric bypass eating plan, the way to eat is just as important as what to eat. Things to remember:
 

*  The new stomach can only hold 1/2 cup at a time
*  Eat 3 to 6 small meals a day
*  Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly
*  Avoid chewing gum - it could block the stomach outlet if swallowed
*  Avoid Fizzy drinks - they stretch your pouch out with gas
*  Do not overeat
*  Relax and enjoy your new life !