Nutritional Information
All patients are required to have a nutritional evaluation one-on-one with the dietitian. You will also be required to attend classes preoperatively for post-op nutrition teaching.
Physician Directed Weight Loss
You may have to go through a three, six, or even twelve month period of physician directed weight loss. There will be a form in your packet when you come to the seminar to take to your physician and have him or her fill it out. Your insurance may also require you to be seen by a dietitian or nutritionist in conjunction with physician visits. It is YOUR responsibility to find this out.
Protein Guidelines
Protein shakes are a must! You need these for basic body functioning and the fluid in the shakes help prevent dehydration.
Lap Band Protein Shake Guidelines
- At least 15-20 grams of protein per serving
- No more than 5-10 grams of carbohydrate per serving
Gastric Bypass
- At least 24-30 grams of protein per serving
- No more than 5 grams of carbohydrate per serving
Vitamins and Minerals
After your surgery you will always need a multivitamin/mineral.
For the first three months after surgery for lap band and first six months after surgery for gastric bypass your multivitamin needs to be chewable or liquid and must be say “complete” on the label.
Food Journal
It is very important for you to keep a food journal both before and after surgery.
Take your food journal to all your doctor appointments. This way, you can show your doctor that you are following recommended dietary guidelines for weight loss before surgery.
After surgery it will be important to help you determine tolerance for certain foods and amounts. If you have a problem after surgery, you must know what you ate!