After gastric bypass surgery it is necessary to adopt an entirely new way of eating in order to adjust to changes in your digestive system and avoid complications. After surgery, the stomach lining must be allowed sufficient time to heal properly, so food is reintroduced slowly beginning with liquids only and gradually progressing to solid foods. 

Liquids Only

You should have 2-3 ounces at a time of liquids only for the first few days after surgery. This may include, broth, unsweetened juice, milk, cream soups, and sugar free gelatin. Sip liquids slowly and frequently, at least six times per day.

Pureed Foods

During this phase you can begin eating pureed food, such as ground lean meats, beans, fish, egg whites, yogurt, and soft fruits. Foods should be blended with liquids.

Soft Solid Foods

For approximately the next eight weeks you can eat soft foods that can be mashed with a fork, such as soft fruits and vegetables, meats, and eggs.

Solid Foods

Once solid foods are introduced, there are some that should be avoided. These include, nuts and seeds, popcorn, dried fruits, sodas and carbonated beverages, granola, stringy vegetables (celery, broccoli, corn, and cabbage), tough meats with a lot of gristle, and breads.

Eating Tips

Eat many small meals throughout the day. You should eat at least 6 meals per day of no more than ½ cup of food each.

Drink liquids between meals only. Drinking with meals fills up the stomach faster and leaves less room for food. Aim for 48-64 ounces of liquids per day to avoid dehydration.

Make sure to take a multivitamin supplement daily. Other supplements such as calcium may also be necessary

Eat and drink slowly. Take at least 30 minutes to finish a meal. Eat small bites and make sure to chew each bite thoroughly before swallowing.

Avoid high fat and high sugar foods. Opt for high protein foods at each meal. Introduce new foods to your diet one at a time to be sure they are well tolerated.