Diet for Gastric Bypass

The first 2-4 weeks of the diet for gastric bypass are the most difficult because it consists of liquids only. Keep in mind that this time will not last forever and make the best of it. For many people, it is difficult to consume the required amount of protein during this time. High protein shakes make a great option for eating during this period.

In most cases, bariatric protein shakes contain 12-20 grams of protein and 60-100 calories. If you get 5 of these in each day, you have it under control. This doesn't sound like much, but it will be much more difficult than you think. During this time you will lose a lot of weight, but you will probably be tired and weak for 2 reasons. One, you are recovering from surgery and two, our calorie intake is very low. The protein shakes will be your best option for speeding up the healing process and building our strength.

After the first 2-4 weeks on the diet for gastric bypass, you will be ready to begin reintroducing solid food back into your diet. At this point, you should begin getting your strength back and possibly your appetite. Protein shakes are great, but you will probably be ready for some real food.

Start out with soft foods. I ate cottage cheese, yogurt and scrambled eggs. Foods high in protein and low in sugar and fat are going to be your best choices. This is the period in which you are going to experiment with different foods. Chew everything thoroughly. This is very important. During this time a did experience pain if food was not chewed well enough.

It is important to avoid drinking 30 minute prior to eating and 30 minutes after finishing a meal. Food and liquids do not mix well for gastric bypass patients. Even nearly 4 years into this journey, that is one rule I adhere to strictly. Mixing the two can cause severe pain.

Two months into the diet for gastric bypass you should be able to eat almost anything. But it is still a good idea to "test" foods, just to see how you body is going to react. You are going to be able to eat many things in moderation, but this same foods may make you very sick if you overeat them.

This is a time for you to learn and develop the healthy habits that should be with you the rest of your life. Keep in mind that if you go back to old habits, you just may end right back where you were. You would not be the first person to regain the weight that was lost in the year following gastric bypass surgery.

Many gastric bypass patients make bariatric protein a regular part of their diet. It fills you up without adding excess calories, fat or sugar.