Dietary Needs after Gastric Sleeve

Dietary Needs after Gastric Sleeve
Dietary Needs after Gastric Sleeve

Caloric intake drastically decreases for individuals undergoing the procedure for a gastric sleeve in Salt Lake City. Within the first year following this surgery, approximately 50 to 80 percent of excess body weight will be shed. Patients lose weight because of reduced stomach size and its inability to only hold a small amount of food without vomiting. During the first few weeks after the surgical procedure, calorie consumption is greatly reduced, and much of the initial diet consists of clear liquids. Intake gradually increases to between 600 and 800 calories per day once the stomach begins to heal. When patients reach their goal weight, caloric intake jumps to a level between 1,000 and 1,200 calories per day.

Dietary intake progresses slowly after surgery. For the first few days, patients receive only clear liquids, followed by pureed foods. The stomach is unable to hold more than four to six ounces of food. Vomiting indicates that the patient has eaten too much at one time. After approximately three weeks, patients can add soft, solid foods to their diet. Liquids should only be consumed between meals. A month after surgery, patients generally begin eating solid foods, concentrating on lean protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Because diet following surgery for gastric sleeve in Salt Lake City is severely limited, patients must take dietary supplements to avoid nutritional deficiencies, especially during the initial phases of weight loss. Chewable multivitamin, chewable calcium and vitamin D are sufficient for most people, but some individuals require additional supplementation. Protein shakes are also useful in helping to repair tissue after surgery. Speak with your weight loss surgeon about what supplements are best for you.