Eating After Weight Loss Surgery

Posted by Dr. Nick Nicholson on January 1st, 2015

Those who choose to undergo weight loss surgery do so for a number of reasons. Sure, it’s about the weight that they may not be able to take off permanently no matter how many diet and exercise programs they’ve tried; but it’s also very likely about the host of medical conditions that have arisen because of the weight, and the emotional turmoil that is so often a side-effect of longstanding obesity. Most patients find that embarking on a weight loss journey through surgery finally provides them with the previously evasive tools that allow them to feel in control of their own body and their lives. Once the decision is made there is always the preparation of finding out as much as you can about the surgery and preparing for the physical recovery. But long after the surgery has been performed and the weight has begun to fall off, there is still the subject of eating. And eating is far more than a physical activity that provides fuel for the body - for a great many people, especially those who struggle with obesity, food and eating are connected to them on an emotional level. And learning how to eat after weight loss surgery is an important part of recovery as well as establishing a foundation for longterm health.

So what is eating like following weight loss surgery? What are the changes and what topics must be addressed to really set yourself up for longterm success?

      Portion sizes. Weight loss surgery - no matter what type you choose to have done - limits the amount of food that your stomach is able to comfortably hold. The result for the patient is smaller portion sizes and much more frequent eating. You will learn how to eat smaller, more nutritious servings and you’ll do that approximately five to six times a day.

      What was once delicious, now doesn’t taste the same. Many weight loss surgery patients report that their tastes changes quite dramatically after surgery. They become more sensitive to sweet and salty and it takes very little seasoning to make a big difference in a food item. You may be surprised to find that something you enjoyed before surgery, no longer fits the bill - and vice versa. Now’s a great time to try new, healthy foods and see if they work with your new palate.

      No longer able to eat unhealthy without consequences. In the past, eating poorly probably resulted in emotional consequences - feeling guilty, etc. Now, after surgery, you will find that eating poorly will also result in physical consequences. Your body will no longer be able to easily tolerate foods high in fat and sugar. As a result, when patients “cheat” with these types of food they will likely have nausea, cramping, and even vomiting and diarrhea. Instead, after surgery patients are encouraged to begin their meals with lean, high-protein foods that are easy to tolerate and provide the body with the energy it needs.

Learn emotional cues. Most important, now is the time for weight loss surgery patients to learn their emotional cues for eating and to redirect them to something healthy. We’ve all eaten when we’re not hungry - because we’re feeling sad, scared, tired, etc. This leads to overeating. Redirect your activities when you’re feeling this way and replace eating with something enjoyable - and healthy.

About Author

One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, nurses and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with LAP-BAND, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Revisions.