08/04/2024
Welcome! It’s great to have you here, and congratulations on taking a big step towards better health. Preparing for surgery, especially when it involves weight loss, can indeed be a bit overwhelming. It's fantastic that you're seeking information and support ahead of time.
The two weeks prior to surgery are crucial for getting your body ready. Many surgeons will recommend a specific pre-operative diet, often a high-protein, low-calorie diet to help shrink the liver and reduce surgical risks. Here are some general guidelines, but please make sure to follow the specific advice your surgeon provides:
# # # Pre-Operative Diet Tips:
1. High-Protein Shakes:
- Look for low-calorie, high-protein shakes. They help you meet your protein needs while keeping your caloric intake low.
- Aim for shakes that have at least 15 grams of protein per serving and are low in sugar.
2. Lean Proteins:
- If allowed, include lean protein sources like chicken breast, turkey, fish, tofu, and legumes.
- Avoid fried or heavily seasoned meats.
3. Non-Starchy Vegetables:
- Fill up on vegetables like spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and zucchini.
- These are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
4. Low-Fat Dairy:
- Include options like low-fat yogurt, cottage cheese, and skim milk if your diet plan allows.
5. Hydration:
- Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is crucial.
- Avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol.
# # # Sample Daily Menu:
- Breakfast:
- Protein shake or smoothie made with low-fat milk, protein powder, and a handful of berries.
- Mid-Morning Snack:
- A small portion of low-fat Greek yogurt or a piece of fruit.
- Lunch:
- Grilled chicken breast with a large salad (mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes) and a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Afternoon Snack:
- Raw veggies with hummus or a piece of low-fat cheese.
- Dinner:
- Baked fish with steamed broccoli and a small side of quinoa or brown rice.
- Evening Snack:
- A small protein shake or a couple of hard-boiled eggs.
# # # Support and Resources:
- Online Communities & Forums:
- Connect with others who are going through the same journey. They can provide support, share recipes, and offer advice.
- Recipe Websites:
- Websites like Bariatric Eating, The World According to Eggface, and Pinterest have many pre-op and post-op recipes tailored to weight-loss surgery patients.
- Nutrition Apps:
- Consider using apps like MyFitnessPal to track your food intake and ensure you’re meeting your protein and calorie goals.
Remember, each surgeon may have a slightly different protocol, so it's essential to follow the plan they give you. Good luck with your surgery preparation, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need support! 😃
