If you are considering weight loss surgery, it is imperative that you understand bariatric nutrition guidelines. So, here’s what you need to know about where to find the top bariatric nutrition in McLean.
What is Bariatric Nutrition?
After weight loss surgery, you will need to follow a specific diet to ensure your health as well as weight loss success. Bariatric nutrition is designed to limit the amount of calories you consume while still providing balanced meals that help prevent nutritional deficiencies and preserve muscle tissues.
General Bariatric Nutrition Guidelines
Some general guidelines include:
- Caloric intake less than 1000 calories
- Balanced meals with small portions
- Avoid sugar, sugary foods, and beverages
- Eat slowly and chew food well
- Keep a food diary that tracks calories and protein intake
- Avoid rice, bread, raw vegetables, tough meats and fresh fruits since these are hard to digest in the beginning.
- Don’t use straws or drink carbonated beverages
Focus on Fluids
It’s important to drink extra water between meals to avoid dehydration. Choose caffeine free, low calorie or calorie free fluids. Aim to sip about 1 cup of fluid between each small meal, six to eight times a day. Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. After surgery, alcohol is absorbed much more quickly making it more difficult to predict the effects.
Protein
Protein helps preserve healthy muscle tissue so incorporate high protein foods into your diet. Aim for 65-75 grams of protein a day. High protein foods include:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Meats
- Seafood
- Tuna
- Poultry
- Fish
- Cottage cheese
- Yogurt
- Tofu
- Protein shakes
Supplements
After bariatric surgery, part of your nutrition will be taken as supplements. This ensures that you get the necessary vitamins and nutrients in your daily diet. We recommend:
- A daily multivitamin
- 1,200-2,000 mg calcium supplement
- 800-1,000 mg Vitamin D supplement
- 500 mcg Vitamin B12 supplement
- Folic acid
- Iron supplement
Top Bariatric Nutrition McLean
Over time, you will be able to increase the variety and consistency of the food you enjoy but during your recovery it’s important to have a great bariatric nutrition plan in place. To learn more, please contact Maryland Bariatrics today.
