When you undergo bariatric surgery with Maryland Bariatrics, we make sure you have the best resources to aid your success. One of the best things you can do to boost your weight loss is to speak to a bariatric dietician before and after your procedure. Here are some of the top bariatric dietician tips.
Pre-Surgery Phase
Even before your surgery, you will meet with a dietician and discuss the changes you need to make to your diet. Your dietician will do a comprehensive nutritional evaluation and create a customized nutrition plan for you. This will also account for any vitamin or nutrient deficiencies that you may be more susceptible to, or special dietary needs like diabetes or high cholesterol.
Stage 1 Diet
After surgery, you will follow a stage 1 diet for 4-6 weeks. This includes soft, mushy, and/or pureed foods. Examples of pureed food include fruitless yogurt, cottage cheese, hummus, and baby food. Soft foods are things like chopped up ground meats, soft white, flaky fish that is baked, boiled, or grilled, scrambled eggs and egg white.
During this time, you will need to avoid solid foods. Your surgeon and dietician will discuss this with you and monitor your progress. When you are ready, they will allow you to slowly incorporate solid foods.
Important considerations 
It is harder to stay hydrated after bariatric surgery because your stomach is smaller, and you have to drink liquids slower. We encourage patients to stay hydrated using decaffeinated, non-carbonated, sugar free beverages.
Another important factor is protein. This is one of the most important nutritional components in weight loss. Good quality proteins are essential to your weight loss journey.
On the other hand, foods rich in fat and sugar should be limited. A bariatric dietician can help you create a specific guideline and help you make educated choices about which foods are healthy to eat. You will also discuss a vitamin and supplement routine to ensure that you get the proper vitamins and nutrients after bariatric surgery.
Bariatric Dietician Services at Maryland Bariatrics
We are proud to offer bariatric dietician services to our patients. Whether you are new and considering bariatric surgery, or had surgery years ago and need support, we are here for you. To learn more, please contact Maryland Bariatrics today.
