After gastric bypass surgery, you are only allowed to eat certain types of foods; these include fruit and vegetables.
When you first return home from the hospital, begin by eating clear liquids such as juices and Jell-O. With time, you can gradually transition into thicker liquids as tolerated.
Additionally, you will need to take vitamin and mineral supplements for the rest of your life in order to ensure you get enough essential nutrients. Dumping syndrome can occur if you consume too much fluid at once with food.
- Bananas
Bananas are an often-selected post-gastric bypass snack due to their hydration, nutritional value and low caloric content. Furthermore, bananas contain potassium which may help lower blood pressure.
However, you must consider the sugar and carbohydrate content of fruit to prevent dumping syndrome – which may cause shakiness, dizziness, sweating and nausea.
- Grapes
Grapes are an irresistibly sweet treat and can be an ideal addition to your post bariatric surgery diet. Not only are they low in fat, but also provide essential vitamins like potassium, fibre, and phytonutrients like resveratrol. A perfect post bariatric surgery treat!
- Oranges
Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C and other essential nutrients. Additionally, they contain a significant amount of fiber which aids in digestive health.
Oranges are an excellent source of folate, an essential B vitamin for pregnant women and their developing babies. Folate helps form DNA in cells and helps prevent birth defects. Furthermore, it may reduce the risk of heart disease for some.
- Peaches
Peaches are an incredibly delicious and nutritious addition to your diet. Not only are they low in calories, but high in fiber too – which could aid with weight loss efforts!
They’re an excellent source of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that can nourish and beautify your skin. Furthermore, strawberries may promote heart health as well.
- Mangoes
Gastric sleeve, lap band and bypass patients looking to maintain their weight loss goals can benefit from adding some fruit into their diet. Selecting fruits that are high in fiber, low in calories and sweet tasting is the key to success.
Mangoes are a tropical fruit with numerous health benefits, such as antioxidants and eye health. Not to mention they’re fun to eat and taste!
- Strawberries
Fresh strawberries contain a low total carbohydrate content (less than 8 grams per 3.5 ounces) and net digestible carbs (less than 6 grams). Furthermore, they offer some fiber for added nutrition.
Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and fights infections. Plus, they’re high in potassium which may lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
- Pears
Pears make for a satisfyingly low-calorie snack that’s ideal for bariatric surgery patients. Plus, they contain fiber which may help combat constipation.
These fruits contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol which may help with constipation by drawing water into the intestines. Furthermore, they boast high levels of antioxidants and have an invigorating taste.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and lycopene, both of which can promote good health. Plus, they’re low in calories and packed with flavor – making them the ideal post-surgery food choice!
Tomatoes can be an ideal pre-surgery food choice for bariatric patients in the early stages of their weight loss surgery. Unfortunately, they contain acid which may not be well tolerated by your new stomach right away.
- Apples
Fruits are an integral part of a balanced diet, but they may be difficult to digest after gastric bypass surgery. To minimize Dumping Syndrome symptoms such as dizziness or nausea, opt for whole fruits that provide minimal sugar and carbohydrates.
In the early stages of recovery, you’ll be on a full liquid diet consisting of skim milk and water. Additionally, as recommended by your surgeon, you must take lifelong vitamin and mineral supplements for life.
- Grapefruit
Grapefruits make for a great postoperative snack, as they’re low in calories and packed with essential nutrients. Furthermore, grapefruits help regulate blood sugar levels.
After gastric Bypass surgery, you are allowed to consume up to two cups of grapefruit daily. However, be sure to consult your doctor beforehand about whether it is okay for you to combine certain medications with grapefruit as some may interfere.
