The lap band pre surgery diet helps optimize your health and reduces surgical risks. This article covers essential aspects of the pre-surgery diet, including diet modifications, nutritional goals, and eating habits. We'll discuss the 2-week preparation period, clear liquid diet phase, and solid food restrictions. You'll learn about post-surgery nutrition, healthy eating tips, and the importance of nutritional supplements for bariatric patients. Let's dive into the specifics of this pre bariatric surgery diet! What this article covers: Diet Modifications Before Lap Band Surgery Nutritional Goals to Attain Prior to Surgery Tips to Help Start New Eating Habits What Is A Lap Band? What Should I Eat After Lap Band Surgery? Tips for Eating Healthily After Lap Band Surgery Nutritional Supplements for Bariatric Patients Diet Modifications Before Lap Band Surgery Preparing for lap band surgery involves significant changes to your eating habits. These modifications help shrink your liver, reduce fat around your organs, and lower the risk of complications during surgery. 2 Weeks Before Surgery Two weeks before your lap band surgery, you'll need to make substantial changes to your diet. This phase typically involves reducing your calorie intake and focusing on nutrient-dense foods. We recommend incorporating our Bariatric protein shakes so that you get in all your essential vitamins and minerals. The 2 week pre bariatric surgery diet is similar to preparations for other procedures like gastric sleeve surgery. During this time, you should eliminate high-fat and high-sugar foods from your diet. Instead, focus on lean proteins, vegetables, and small portions of complex carbohydrates as well as staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Clear Liquid Diet In the days leading up to lap band surgery, patients typically transition to a clear liquid diet. This phase usually lasts 1-2 days before the procedure. Clear liquids include water, broth, sugar-free gelatin, and clear juices without pulp. The clear liquid diet serves several purposes. It helps further reduce liver size, minimizes the risk of aspiration during surgery, and prepares the digestive system for the procedure. For the best possible outcome for your surgery, follow your surgeon's instructions carefully during this phase. Solid Foods In the weeks leading up to lap band surgery, patients gradually reduce their intake of solid foods. This process helps train the stomach for smaller portions and prepares the body for the dietary changes that will follow the procedure. Focus on small, frequent meals of lean proteins and non-starchy vegetables. Our research indicates that, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, "Your doctor may tell you to stop eating solid foods a day or two before surgery". This final step ensures that the stomach is as empty as possible for the surgery, reducing the risk of complications. Nutritional Goals to Attain Prior to Surgery Before lap band surgery, patients should focus on increasing protein intake, reducing overall calorie consumption, and ensuring adequate hydration. Protein is particularly important, as it helps preserve muscle mass during rapid weight loss. Aim for at least 60-80 grams of protein daily from sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, and protein supplements. Our Bariatric meal replacement is an excellent option, providing high-quality protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals in a convenient, lactose-free formula. Furthermore, you must reduce carbohydrate intake, especially from refined sugars and processed foods. Stay hydrated by drinking 64 ounces of water or sugar-free, caffeine-free beverages daily. Tips to Help Start New Eating Habits Start by eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Use smaller plates and utensils to help control portion sizes. Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly, taking at least 20-30 minutes per meal. Focus on nutrient-dense foods and avoid empty calories from sugary drinks and snacks. Plan meals in advance to ensure a balanced diet and avoid impulsive eating. Our findings show that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends keeping a food diary to track eating habits and identify areas for improvement. What Is a Lap Band? A lap band, or laparoscopic gastric banding, is a type of weight-loss surgery. It involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch. This pouch limits the amount of food you can eat at one time, helping you feel full with less food. The lap band is reversible, making it a flexible option for many patients. A healthcare provider can tighten or loosen the band by adding or removing saline solution through a port placed under the skin. What Should I Eat After Lap Band Surgery? After lap band surgery, your diet will progress through several stages. Based on our observations, you'll initially start with clear liquids, then move to full liquids, pureed foods, and finally soft foods before returning to regular solid foods. This gradual progression allows your stomach to heal and helps you adapt to your new eating pattern. Once you're back on solid foods, focus on high-protein, nutrient-dense options. Include lean meats, fish, eggs, low-fat dairy, and legumes in your diet. Incorporate a variety of vegetables and small amounts of fruits. Whole grains can be added in moderation. Our Bariatric protein bars offer a convenient meal replacement option, providing medical-quality protein with whey protein isolate and essential nutrients to support your post-surgery recovery and long-term weight management. Tips for Eating Healthily After Lap Band Surgery Like the preparatory phase, eat small, frequent meals throughout the day, typically 4-6 meals. Chew your food thoroughly and eat slowly to prevent discomfort and maximize nutrient absorption. Stop eating as soon as you feel full to avoid stretching your stomach pouch. Stay hydrated by sipping water between meals, but avoid drinking with meals as it can flush food through your pouch too quickly. Choose nutrient-dense foods and avoid empty calories from sugary drinks and snacks. Nutritional Supplements for Bariatric Patients After lap band surgery, make sure you're getting all the necessary nutrients. Our Bariatric multivitamin is specifically blended for bariatric patients, containing essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health and prevent nutrient deficiencies. It's available in both chewable and capsule forms for your convenience. Calcium is also particularly important for bone health after surgery. Our Bariatric calcium chews, like the Lemon Calcium Citrate Soft Chew, provide 500 mg of calcium citrate and 500 IU of vitamin D3 per chew. They're easy to digest and absorb, making them an ideal choice for bariatric patients. Conclusion A well-planned lap band pre surgery diet sets the foundation for a successful weight loss journey. We've covered the key aspects of preparing for lap band surgery, including diet modifications, nutritional goals, and new eating habits. We discussed the importance of protein intake, hydration, and nutritional supplements. You've learned about the stages of post-surgery eating and tips for long-term success. Take the first step towards a healthier you with Bariatric Fusion's specially formulated products. Browse our range of protein shakes, meal replacements, and supplements, and get the support you need throughout your weight loss journey. 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