Restarting weight loss after gastric bypass surgery can be tricky. Going back to the basics and starting over can be intimidating. However, if you stay consistent and work hard, you can get back on track and lose the extra weight you may have gained back. In this guide, we’ll put you on the right path to break the weight loss stall after gastric bypass. What This Article Covers: What Is a Gastric Bypass? What Is a Bariatric Pouch Reset? How to Do a Bariatric Pouch Reset What Is a Gastric Bypass? Gastric bypass is a common bariatric procedure that involves making the stomach smaller and changing how the small intestine handles and absorbs food. In other words, the procedure “forces” the patient to feel full quickly resulting in weight loss. In some severe cases of obesity, usually a BMI of 35 to 40 and over, the excess weight may threaten quality of life and increase the risk of severe health conditions. In that case, the doctor may recommend gastric bypass surgery to shed off excess weight. The duration of a gastric bypass procedure is typically around 1-3 hours. What Is a Bariatric Pouch Reset? When you undergo a gastric bypass procedure, the stomach is made into a very small pouch. The "new stomach pouch" will tell you when your full, even after a small amount of food is consumed. When you feel pressure, this is the signal to stop eating. When you continuously overeat, the stomach has to stretch in order to accommodate food. A bariatric pouch reset is a diet that brings you back to the basics of eating after bariatric surgery. It doesn't necessarily shrink your stomach back to a normal size, but instead, helps you to get back on track mentally and lose some weight. We are all human and old eating habits can resurface. This diet gives you the ability to get back to the basics and maintain your healthy lifestyle. This diet is usually done several months or years after surgery. How to Do a Bariatric Pouch Reset A bariatric pouch reset diet is more or less the same as your post-surgery diet that lasted for 8-10 weeks. Luckily, the reset is typically only 1-2 weeks. However, since you’ll be drastically limiting your food intake, it’s crucial that you follow up with a surgeon and a registered dietitian during a bariatric pouch reset. In many cases, your dietitian will recommend additional supplements to compensate for any micronutrient deficiencies during the duration of the diet, such as chewable multivitamins, corrective supplements and protein powders. Typically, a fake gastric bypass diet that’s intended to restart weight loss after surgery includes: Day 1 Clear liquids: Broth Decaf coffee/tea Popsicles (zero sugar) Water Beverages that are not carbonated (zero sugar) Sugar-free Jell-O Days 2 and 3 Full liquids and inclusion of higher protein: Protein drinks and water Non-fat Greek yogurt Thin cream soups Sugar-free pudding Days 4-6 Pureed foods: Protein drinks Mashed potatoes Low-fat cottage cheese Scrambled eggs Hummus Almond milk Sugar-free pudding Days 7-9 Soft foods: Protein drinks Soft veggies, mashed avocado Scrambled eggs Soft steamed or grilled fish Low-fat cottage cheese Ground chicken or turkey Soup Canned tuna Canned salmon with low-fat mayonnaise Mashed fruit Day 10 and Beyond This is the most critical part of restarting your weight loss journey. It’s your chance of ensuring sustainable, long-term weight loss results. You’ll need to dedicate some effort in order to maintain your diet and keeping food portions in check. Continue to choose healthy food options and follow portion sizes. Excessive intake of any food, even healthy options, can still cause weight gain. Here are some tips to keep in mind during this period: Follow up with your surgeon and dietitian on a regular basis Track intake Eat protein first, then non-starchy vegetables, fruits, and carbohydrates (whole grains) last Chew slowly, it should take you 25-30 minutes to eat Avoid drinking liquids 30 minutes before and after meals *Each Registered Dietitian will have different recommendations based on the surgery center they work in. Conclusion When all is said and done, restarting weight loss after gastric bypass is definitely achievable, provided that you maintain the lifestyle change that we’ve talked about in this article. Remember, a gastric bypass journey requires consistent effort if you want to maintain the results of surgery. Related Questions What Foods Should be Avoided After Bariatric Surgery? When planning out your bariatric pouch reset diet or even after finishing the diet, make sure that you avoid or limit these foods: Fatty foods Dry red meat Added sugars and pastries White bread, white rice Sugar-sweetened beverages Can You Have Another Weight Loss Surgery After a Gastric Bypass? Yes, you can have multiple bariatric procedures. When there is excessive weight regain and complications, some individuals may be recommended a gastric bypass revision or another bariatric procedure. However, having more than one weight loss surgery can be risky and may result in life-threatening complications. How Much Does a Gastric Bypass Surgery Cost? The cost of gastric bypass surgery can vary from $15,000 to $35,000. Insurance may cover the cost of surgery. What’s a Mini Gastric Bypass Procedure? A mini gastric bypass procedure is a similar combination of gastric bypass surgery and sleeve gastrectomy. The surgery reduces the size of your stomach and inhibits nutrient absorption. It’s usually recommended as a revision for those who have previously had gastric banding or sleeve surgery. It may also be an alternative to gastric bypass for some patients. How Long Does It Take to Recover From Bariatric Surgery? Recovering from bariatric surgery may take anywhere from 3 to 5 weeks, depending on the particular case. Did you find our blog helpful? Then consider checking: Weight Requirement For Gastric Bypass How Much Weight Loss Gastric Bypass Where Can I Get Gastric Bypass Surgery Recovery After Gastric Bypass Surgery Getting Pregnant After Gastric Bypass How To Tighten Loose Skin After Gastric Bypass Without Surgery Gastric Bypass Long Term Results Gastric Bypass Facts Gallbladder Problems After Gastric Bypass Gastric Bypass And Anemia **This blog is for information and education purposes only. This information is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions in regards to a medical condition.