Nutrition after gastric sleeve surgery (such as gastric sleeve or gastric bypass) is critical to speeding up the healing process, supporting healthy weight loss, and ensuring the long-term success of the surgery. Since the stomach volume shrinks significantly after surgery, there are points to consider in the nutrition plan. Here is the nutrition guide after gastric sleeve surgery:
1. Initial Post-Operative Period (1-2 Weeks): Liquid Diet
In the first stage after surgery, the stomach is in the healing process and only liquid foods should be consumed. This period usually covers the first two weeks after surgery.
- What to Eat:
- Water, unsweetened herbal teas
- Liquid protein drinks (with doctor's approval)
- Clear soups such as bone broth and broth (fat-free and unsalted)
- Sugar-free gelatins
- Isotonic drinks (low sugar)
- Things to Consider:
- Drink slowly with small sips
- Absolutely avoid carbonated drinks
- Avoid high-sugar and fatty liquids
2. Second Period (2-4 Weeks): Puree Diet
After the stomach gets used to liquid foods, puree-like foods are introduced starting from the 2nd week after surgery. At this stage, foods that are easy to digest, well-cooked and pureed are consumed.
- What to Eat:
- Puree vegetables (carrots, zucchini, potatoes)
- Puree lean chicken, turkey or fish
- Puree fat-free yogurt or cottage cheese
- Soft fruits such as bananas that can be pureed
- Soft cereals such as oatmeal and semolina
- Things to Consider:
- Eat slowly and chew well
- Consume small portions at each meal
- Avoid spicy, acidic and very salty foods avoid
3. Third Period (4-6 Weeks): Soft Foods
Between 4-6 weeks after surgery, the stomach begins to tolerate soft foods. During this period, soft-textured foods can be consumed.
- What to Eat:
- Well-cooked, mashed or chopped vegetables
- Soft, lean meats (chicken, fish, turkey)
- Soft fruits (banana, melon, peach)
- Low-fat dairy products (yoghurt, cheese, cottage cheese)
- Protein-rich eggs (boiled or omelet)
- Things to Consider:
- Pay attention to protein intake at each meal (to prevent muscle loss)
- Eat foods slowly and observe your stomach's tolerance
- Avoiding fatty and sugary foods
4. Fourth Period (6 Weeks and Beyond): Transition to Solid Foods
About 6 weeks after the surgery, you can gradually transition to solid foods. At this stage, the aim is to gain healthy eating habits and establish a meal plan.
- What to Eat:
- Lean protein sources (chicken, fish, lean red meat)
- Fresh vegetables (prefer steamed or boiled rather than raw vegetables)
- Fruits (prefer low-sugar ones)
- Whole grains (bulgur, quinoa, whole wheat products)
- Low-fat dairy products
- Things to Consider:
- Give priority to protein at every meal
- Eat small bites of food and eat well chew
- Pay attention to portion control at meals
- Avoid carbonated drinks, alcohol and high-sugar foods
5. Meal Order and Eating Habits
- Small Portions: Since the stomach volume shrinks, each meal should be consumed in very small portions. It is best to eat 5-6 small meals a day.
- Eat Slowly: It is important to chew your food very well and eat slowly. It can take time for your stomach to realize it's full, so eating quickly can lead to overeating.
- Water Consumption: Avoid drinking water with your meals. It's best to drink water 30 minutes before and after a meal. Try to drink at least 1.5-2 liters of water a day.
- Protein Priority: The body needs protein to maintain muscle mass. Pay attention to protein intake at every meal.It should be. Chicken, fish, eggs, dairy products and protein supplements are recommended.
- Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: Some vitamin and mineral deficiencies may occur after stomach reduction surgery. You should regularly take the supplements recommended by your doctor. Iron, vitamin B12, calcium and vitamin D supplements are especially important.
6. Things to Consider After Nutrition
- Dumping Syndrome: Rapid consumption of sugary foods after surgery can cause symptoms such as nausea, sweating and dizziness, called dumping syndrome. Therefore, sugary foods and drinks should be avoided.
- Fizzy Drinks: Due to the decrease in stomach capacity, fizzy drinks can cause stomach discomfort and are definitely not recommended.
- Avoiding High-Calorie and Fatty Foods: High-fat foods can strain your stomach and negatively affect weight loss. Therefore, foods low in fat should be preferred.
7. Long-Term Nutrition Strategies
- Balanced Nutrition: Developing balanced nutritional habits in the long term is critical to the success of the surgery. A diet that includes protein, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats should be followed.
- Keeping a Food Journal: Keeping a food journal to track the amount and type of food consumed can help with portion control.
- Regular Follow-up: Regular doctor check-ups and dietitian follow-ups after surgery will help you optimize your nutrition plan and maintain healthy weight loss.
