The Surgical Associates of South Florida team has composed a dietary plan for patients undergoing our Easy-Step Sleeve Program™ to help them achieve optimal results. Our staff will be with you each step of the way to help you achieve your weight loss goals and ensure your recovery process is as smooth as possible. We typically recommend patients take an acid-blocking medication for at least the first 12 weeks after their surgery to reduce the risk of ulcers. Depending on the patient, we may also recommend other supplements or multivitamins be added into your post-procedure diet.
Contact our office in Miami today to schedule a consultation or for more information about our Easy-Step Sleeve Program™ dietary plan!
One to Two Weeks Prior to Surgery: Liquid Diet
In order to maximize the effectiveness of your Easy-Step Sleeve Program™ and ensure a successful surgery, we recommend patients go on a full liquid diet one to two weeks prior to their procedure. We typically recommend patients try to lose between 10 and 15 pounds prior to their surgery to increase the effectiveness of the procedure. The more weight that is lost prior to a gastric sleeve surgery, the better the results will be post procedure.
Recommended Foods:
- Greek yogurt
- Natural apple sauce
- Unsweetened Almond, Coconut, or Cashew milk
- Vegetable juice
- Soups (blend before eating and remove any chunks of solid food)
24 to 48 Hours After Surgery: Clear Liquids Only
For the first 24 to 48 hours after your gastric sleeve procedure, you should only consume clear liquids to allow your body to begin healing properly. It is important to drink very slowly and consume liquids in small amounts.
Recommended Liquids:
- Herbal tea
- Water
- Clear chicken, beef, or vegetable broth
- Ice chips
- Sugar-free popsicles
Week One Post Procedure: Full Liquid Diet
The first week after your gastric sleeve surgery you should only consume liquids. Liquids should be a smooth consistency and free from any chunks, lumps, or seeds. During this stage of your post operative diet, be sure to consume liquids in small amounts and to stop when you begin feeling full. Be sure to consume lots of clear liquids between your meals to make sure you are staying properly hydrated.
Recommended Foods:
- Unsweetened Almond, Coconut, or Cashew milk
- Sugar-free Jell-O
- Natural apple sauce
- Protein shakes
- Vegetable juice
Week Two and Three Post Procedure: Pureed Foods
During the second and third week after your surgery, your system should be ready to digest pureed foods with more substance. This is an important step in your dietary plan as you move from a liquid diet to foods with more consistency. Continue to consume plenty of clear liquids in between meals to ensure you are staying hydrated.
Recommended Foods:
- Pureed fruits and vegetables
- Fat-free refried beans
- Cottage cheese
- Low-sugar yogurt
- Chicken, beef, or vegetable broth
Week Three and Four Post Procedure: Soft Foods
You may be able to begin introducing soft, solid foods back into your diet about halfway through the third week after your gastric sleeve procedure. We recommend focusing on foods that are low-carb, low-fat, and low-calorie as you begin to work your way back into consuming solid foods. It is important to stay well-hydrated during each phase of your postoperative diet, please be sure to consume plenty of clear liquids in between meals.
Recommended Foods:
- Canned tuna, chicken, or salmon
- Tofu
- Eggs
- Oatmeal
- Bananas
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
Week Five Post Procedure: Solid Foods
As you work your way back into consuming solid foods, each food should be added into your diet one at a time. If at any point you feel any discomfort or sensation of fullness, slow down or stop eating. Raw and acidic foods will be more difficult for you to digest, so we recommend starting with cooked solid foods and slowly progressing towards raw and acidic foods.
Recommended Foods:
- Lean meats
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Eggs
- Beans
- Greek yogurt
General Post-Operative Gastric Sleeve Dietary Guidelines
- Avoid foods with high sugar or fat content
- Limit caffeine intake
- Consume food in small amounts
- Chew food slowly
- Do not drink liquids with meals
- Eat several small meals per day
Contact our office in Miami today for further information about our pre and postoperative Easy-Step Sleeve Program™ dietary plan. We look forward to helping you achieve your weight loss goals!
