Gastric Bypass Diet

A normal diet does not provide enough vitamins and minerals. The gastric bypass diet therefore includes taking chewable multivitamin tablets and extra iron, calcium, or vitamin B-12 if needed.

Doctors normally require gastric bypass patients to take a multivitamin/mineral supplements.

A gastric bypass requires you to commit to a new lifestyle. You can no longer be able to eat large portions of food at one sitting.

It is important to get enough protein immediately after surgery. This helps the wounds heal properly. Protein in the diet will also help preserve muscle tissue. Rich sources of protein include lean red meat and pork, chicken and turkey without the skin, all types of fish, eggs, and cottage cheese.

Sugary foods could make weight loss difficult even in small amounts. In addition, eating sweet or sugary foods promotes dumping syndrome, which can occur after the gastric bypass operation. Sweet and sugary foods should therefore be avoided.

Fat is difficult to digest after gastric bypass surgery. Too much fat delays emptying of the stomach. It may also cause acid reflux, diarrhoea, nausea and stomach discomfort. High fat, fried foods and fatty meats should be avoided.

Fibre is limited on the gastric bypass diet.

Rich sources of fibre include bran, popcorn, raw vegetables, and dried beans.

There is less space in the stomach to hold such bulky foods. There is also less gastric acid available to digest them.

As part of a gastric bypass diet, it is important to avoid dehydration by drinking sufficient fluids: