Dr. Parameshwar, a bariatric surgeon at Sahyadri Hospital, discusses the essential care and dietary guidelines patients should follow in the first month after undergoing bariatric surgery.
Introduction
Dr. Parameshwar, a bariatric surgeon at Sahyadri Hospital, discusses the essential care and dietary guidelines patients should follow in the first month after undergoing bariatric surgery.
Initial Hospital Stay
After the surgery, patients are usually admitted for 24 to 72 hours for monitoring and care. Following this, they are provided with a proper diet plan tailored to their recovery needs.
Importance of Hydration
Hydration is crucial post-surgery. Patients should aim to consume a minimum of 1.5 litres of liquid daily, but they can have more if desired. It is essential to sip liquids slowly rather than consuming them all at once, as changes in the gastrointestinal system post-surgery require a more careful approach to intake.
Week 1: Dietary Guidelines
In the first week, the focus is primarily on hydration. Patients are encouraged to drink water, coconut water, and similar liquids, taking small sips. There are no supplements introduced during this week.
Week 2: Full Liquid Diet
During the second week, patients can transition to a full liquid diet. This includes juices, which can be introduced directly. The emphasis on hydration remains, and protein supplements are started, with a target of 40 to 60 grams of protein per day to prevent weakness. Multivitamins are also recommended from the first day, along with antacid tablets, such as Pantocid, to protect the surgical site.
Week 3: Introduction of Pureed Foods
In the third week, patients can begin to consume pureed foods, akin to those given to young children. The same hydration and protein intake guidelines continue. Multivitamins should be maintained during this phase as well.
Week 4: Soft Diet Implementation
By the fourth week, patients are advised to start a soft diet, which may include options like porridge and khichdi (a rice and lentil dish). Liquid intake can remain the same, with the possibility of increasing it based on individual comfort. Protein supplementation should also be increased, with a target of 70 to 80 grams of protein per day to help maintain muscle mass while promoting fat loss.
Supplementation for Bone Health
In addition to the protein and multivitamin supplements, calcium and vitamin D should also be continued to prevent bone mass loss.
Conclusion
During the first month following bariatric surgery, adhering to these dietary guidelines is critical for successful recovery and weight loss. For additional information or to book an appointment, patients can reach out through the available contact options.
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