GramaLisa

Hi Dr. Callery,

My question has to do with the post-op diet, once I am healed and ready to eat "normal food." I will be having my surgery on January 8, 2009. When I attended the pre-op class last week the nurse said to us the only foods we are allowed to eat once we get past the pureed food stage are meat, eggs, cottage cheese, and any type of cheese we liked. She stated that we can have nothing else until we lose 75% of our excess weight. She stated the reason for the very limited diet is to cut out as many carbs as possible. Is this the typical diet for post-op gastric bypass? It sounds too limited for me, as I enjoy a nice green salad with dinner. Thank you! Grama Lisa

Dr. Callery

There are many different approaches to the post op diet depending on the operation performed and surgeon/dietitian preferences. One of the best current references is the Supplement to Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases Vol 4, Number 55 September/October 2008. Most surgeons suggest that patients strive to eat 60 gms of protein daily. Clearly it's hard to get this much down initially, but do your best. Protein containing drinks are most helpful.

In our practice we suggest eating protein containing foods first, vegetables second, and carbs third. In the carb category less refined carbs are best. Definitely stay away from any form of carb snacking. I'll post a link to the suggested guidelines later in this thread.