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Foods for Bariatric Weight Loss

After having bariatric surgery, the need for foods high in protein are essential. Eating the wrong foods can lead to constipation, malabsorption, nausea or other health problems. Maintaining a healthy eating plan with the right foods are key to weight loss after bariatric surgery.

  1. Getting the Right Amount of Protein

    • Foods high in protein are the most important part of weight loss. After bariatric surgery, portion sizes are much smaller, so when eating meals, it is best to eat the protein before the vegetables, fruits, whole grains or carbohydrates. Protein is found in many foods, but it is best to look for lean proteins. Foods high in lean protein are chicken breast, turkey, tuna, salmon, eggs, 1 percent milk, cottage cheese, peanut butter, almonds, cashews, peanuts and yogurt. Bariatric surgeons also stress the importance of maintaining a high protein, low carbohydrate diet for best weight loss results.

    Alternatives of Food

    • Another way to maintain weight loss is by eating alternatives for lean protein, low calorie and low carb foods, especially in meats. Look for a tofu section, such as burger patties. Many meats are made with turkey. Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon. Instead of hot dogs, look for turkey dogs. Turkey substitutes provide more nutrition. Buying cheese made with skim, 1 or 2 percent milk is also an alternative than regular cheeses. Nutritionists advise white complex carbohydrates need to be replaced with whole grain foods, preferably wheat. Instead of regular pasta noodles, look for whole grain wheat pasta noodles. Soft carbs such as brown rice and oatmeal are alternatives to white carbs.

    Meeting the Nutritional Requirements

    • Not everyone is going to be able to meet the protein daily requirements with foods previously mentioned. Each person is different after surgery and may not absorb nutrients properly. Protein supplements then play an important role in weight loss. Protein shakes and meal bars are ideal as a replacement. A well balanced diet of low calorie, low carb and high protein foods must be maintained for adequate bariatric weight loss. Supplements with the most nutritional value can be purchased from bariatric offices, but many online stores offer great comparisons. Remember, small bites and chew slowly for the foods to digest properly.

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