A person's diet after weight loss surgery tends to be self-regulated, because the body may react to certain foods with discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea. With a little care and planning, however, patients can enjoy a wide variety of their favorite foods while enhancing the weight loss process.

You can consult with dietary specialists on the Kettering Bariatrics team before and after surgery, and they will develop an effective diet plan for you based on your individual requirements and restrictions. In general, you can expect the following:

	Hydration is essential following surgery.  It is important to drink a minimum of 64 oz per day.
	Sip fluids often, but stop if you feel pain, fullness, or nausea, and wait a few minutes before trying to drink again.
	Your first few meals after surgery will consist of clear liquids.
	Most patients eat soft, easily digested foods for 3 months after surgery.
	In many cases, the stomach is reduced to a 2- to 3-oz pouch that makes patients feel full faster and prevents consumption of a large amount of food at once.
	Meal size is very important. You should eat 3 daily meals, each consisting of 1/2 cup of food or less.  You also will need 2 small protein snacks to ensure you get 50-60 grams of protein per day to promote healing and prevent malnutrition.
	You should only introduce one new food item at a time to be sure your new digestive system will tolerate it. Every patient is unique, so pay attention to your body's cues.
	By one year after surgery, you will be eating 3 daily meals consisting of 1 cup of food or less.
	Be careful not to overeat.  This can stretch out the stomach pouch dangerously and cause you to regain weight.