Prior to surgery is the best time to start your new nutrition and lifestyle changes that you will need to incorporate into the rest of your life.
- Slow rate of eating
- Slow rate of drinking – sip fluid, do not gulp
- Do NOT use straws – cause you to swallow a lot of air, causing gas
- Drink liquids separate from meals – 30 minutes before or after meals
- Do not drink carbonated (bubbly) drinks – bubbles may cause gas/bloating, and stretch the stomach pouch
- Avoid caffeine – it irritates your stomach and causes dehydration
- Avoid alcohol – contributes to dehydration and has no nutrients
- Eliminate high calorie drinks – like milkshakes, regular soft drinks, sports drinks, juice, sweet tea; switch to sugar free and low fat beverages
- Drink 8-10, 8 ounce glasses of water daily
- Break the "sweet tooth" – no sweets or desserts with regular sugar
- Limit high-fat and fried foods – breading, high fat sauces, high fat meats, junk food and sweets
- Practice decreasing portion sizes – use a salad plate and infant spoons
- Eat 5-6 small meals daily – make a schedule if needed; stop eating at first sign of fullness
- Chew your food to applesauce consistency
