Weight Loss Help

15 Tips to Plan Your Gastric Sleeve Pre-Op Diet

Gastric sleeve surgery is a surgical weight loss procedure that reduces the size of the stomach. The procedure is typically performed on those who are severely overweight and have not been able to achieve weight loss through diet and exercise.   

Gastric sleeve surgery is a major surgical procedure that involves its share of risks and complications. This is why it is important to weigh the risks and benefits with a qualified medical team for the best possible outcome.  

15 Tips to Plan Your Gastric Pre-Op Diet 

If you're planning gastric sleeve surgery, it is important to ensure your body is ready for the procedure. Your surgeon may suggest you spend time with a registered dietician to plan a pre-op gastric sleeve diet. Let's look at ways to reduce the risk of complications during and after surgery.   

1. Talk to your team

As we all know, everyone is different, and every surgery is different. What is good for your best friend may not be good for you. Your doctor and dietician are the best resources for planning and advice about your situation. Your healthcare team is there to assess your health and specific personal needs.   

2. Follow the rules

Your surgeon will help you plan a specific gastric sleeve diet. A registered dietician can also help you understand your calorie target and macronutrients. They will also make dietary recommendations to ensure the best possible outcome.   

3. Be sure to start

your gastric sleeve pre-op diet way before your surgery. Doing so will help you address any issues that may arise and give you the best chance at reducing any risks. Plus, weight loss before surgery can also lessen the risk of complications and improve your overall health.  

4. Focus on protein

Nothing is more important to preserve muscles and speed wound healing than protein. Your gastric sleeve pre-op diet should include lean protein choices like skinless chicken, fish, lean beef, low-fat dairy, and tofu. Your doctor or dietician may also suggest protein shakes or supplements.  

5. Say no to carbs

When you reduce carbohydrate intake, your body turns to fat to burn as its energy source. This helps with weight loss and reduces the risk of fatty liver disease. Your gastric sleeve pre-op diet may include complex carbohydrates like fruits, veggies, and whole grains, which are great choices. Minimize or avoid sugar and processed foods.   

6. Stay hydrated

Your body must be as healthy as possible to heal well after surgery. Staying hydrated is one of the most important ways to keep your body healthy. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day but remember to follow your doctor's instructions on water and food consumption for the day of surgery.    

7. Toss out high-calorie, high-fat foods

Calories are what the body needs for energy, but too many of them can cause weight gain and other complications. Unhealthy fats, sugar, fried food, sugary snacks and beverages, and fast food are a huge no-no! Consume foods that will give your body what it needs without the extra calories.   

8. Eat smaller, more frequent meals

Control hunger naturally by eating smaller, more frequent meals. This will also help you adjust to the smaller portions you eat after surgery.   

9. Supplements

Your doctor may recommend supplements for your gastric sleeve pre-op diet. These may include vitamins or protein supplements.    

10. Dear Diary

One of the most valuable tools for your gastric sleeve pre-op diet and weight loss is keeping a food diary. Not only will it help you find patterns or triggers in your eating habits, but it will also help keep you on track and keep you true to your surgeon's guidelines.  

11. Go Gradual

If you are used to a diet high in unhealthy foods, gradually transition to your new diet. This helps minimize cravings and will also help you to maintain this way of eating.   

12. Look at your plate

After surgery, your stomach's capacity will be reduced. Learn to recognize appropriate portion sizes. Measure your food to become familiar with healthy portion sizes.   

13. Stress management

Emotional eating is challenging, especially when surgery is on the horizon. Get the support you need from a therapist or support group. They can help you identify emotional eating habits and help you develop healthy ways of dealing with stress.  

14. Stay active

Talk to your doctor about pre-op exercise. Staying healthy with gentle exercises like walking can help you improve your overall health. Your healthcare team may advise against strenuous activity during the weeks before surgery, so follow their recommendations.   

15. Plan

Reduce the temptation to make unhealthy choices. Have some healthy meals and snacks to help you stay on track with your gastric sleeve pre-op diet. Prepare foods that are easy to freeze and heat up so you will always have the right choices.   

A pre-op diet for gastric sleeve surgery will ensure you have the best health possible. It will also help your body heal quickly and prevent complications. Follow your surgeon's advice and set the stage for a healthy outcome and lifestyle.   

 

Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics, and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our reviewed content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.