November 2020
Jacqui Lewis - BHSc Nutritional and Dietetic Medicine
Top Foods to Eat After WLS
You already know…..WLS is a major commitment, its life changing and the effects on your diet are life long.
You need to be armed with
- Commitment
- Good support
- A hunger for learning more about your body and the food you put in it
And you are also well aware,
WLS is simply a tool for
assisting weight loss -
therefore, it’s important to
understand how to use this tool to
the best of your ability.
After your surgery, some major
changes to the digestive system
occur, making it a lifestyle change
that must be closely monitored.
1. Lean Skinless Chicken
Protein is a major staple in the post gastric-bypass
surgery, but visible fat and skin should be trimmed off.
Protein not only aids the body in healing, but it is
essential for sustained weight loss long-term.
It keeps you feeling full, and helps to regulate
blood sugar so cravings are avoided.
2. Eggs
Soft scrambling some eggs is a great way to get healthy protein and nutrients into the body while also being easy to digest.
Avoid dry eggs and hard-boiled eggs after surgery.
3. Lentils
Lentils have 18 grams of protein, and 15 grams of fibre
per cup.
This is great because the protein helps the
body heal, and the fibre aids with digestion after weight loss surgery.
4. Yoghurt
Eating non-fat, no sugar added Greek Yoghurt is
easily digested and gives an added boost of
calcium to the healing body.
If unflavoured yoghurt
isn’t your thing, hand crush some frozen berries to
put into the yoghurt.
5. Fish
Fish: Is perfect to eat because it is low-calories,
high in protein, and packed with heart
and brain friendly omega-3 fatty acids!
Salt water fish are also a source of Vitamin D which
helps curb depression and anxiety.
6. Oatmeal
Cooked, sugar-free cereal such as oatmeal or
cream of rice digests easily.
It is important to
avoid all white breads with sugar added- and opt for
the whole-grain, whole wheat variety instead.
7. Berries
Berries are so healthy because they are packed with
antioxidants and low in sugar.
Pick blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries for a sweet treat.
If eating them whole is an issue, they can be mashed or pureed. Do not add any sugar, and avoid high sugar fruits such as bananas and mangoes.
Also avoid dried fruits which are loaded in sugar.
8. Water
Water: It is important to stay hydrated after gastric bypass- but
small amounts of water must be consumed throughout the
day consistently and regularly.
Avoid drinking 30 minutes
before or after eating.
Also avoid sodas and any
sugary drinks.
It is best to drink pure water or
natural, unsweetened teas.
Other Tips
Listen to your body and visit your dietitian or nutritionist regularly – this relationship is lifelong, so be sure you find someone you are comfortable with.
Keep testing your blood regularly, to detect any nutrient deficiencies early before health issues present
Take your multivitamins every day – for life. These are aimed at preventing the far-reaching problems malabsorption and malnutrition can cause.
Jacqui Lewis
BHSc Nutritional and Dietetic Medicine