Whenever a patient comes into our Marina Del Rey offices to discuss diet, we first assess their individual medical needs and weight loss goals. However, all patients who have had weight loss surgery have certain considerations in common, due to their reduced calorie intake and changes to the physical anatomy.
Bariatric Diet Plan Advice
Almost all modern bariatric procedures reduce the capacity of the stomach. This means that the amount of food you can eat in one sitting will be limited, helping you control portion sizes and lose weight. This also means that every calorie counts, and you must be mindful of your food choices.
Bariatric patients, including lap-band patients, should keep the following things in mind when constructing a long-term diet plan.
DO:
- Make lean protein such as fish, chicken breast, and nonfat dairy foods your No. 1 priority.
- Ensure all your vitamin and mineral needs are taken care of. You may need a multivitamin.
- Cut your food into very small pieces and chew thoroughly. This is to avoid blocking the narrow opening inside the stomach at the point of the band.
DON’T:
- Consume liquid calories. Soda, milkshakes, alcohol, and other high-calorie beverages can add up quickly and thwart your weight loss progress.
- Eat fatty or sugary foods. You may deprive yourself of needed nutrients, and your weight-loss goals will be harder to reach.
- Give up!
At L.A. Bariatrics, we have a nutritionist on staff. This person will work closely with you and develop a personalized diet plan, taking your needs and preferences into account, so that you stand the best possible chance of success. We want to count you as one of the satisfied, accomplished members of the L.A. Bariatrics family.
If you have any questions about diet after lap-band surgery, please call our office at (800) 491-1977 or schedule a visit with a weight loss surgeon. We’re happy to help.
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