Best Products to Stock up on for Bariatric Surgery
Congratulations on planning for bariatric surgery! As you think about getting ready for this life-changing procedure, you are best thinking about what comes afterwards. You will be on a strict diet and will need to have certain necessities on hand to nourish your body as you recover from surgery.
Taking bariatric vitamins and getting enough protein, while staying within the rules of your post-op diet progression, may be some of the top priorities. These are some of the best products to stock up on for bariatric surgery.
Bariatric Vitamins
Most bariatric surgery patients need to take bariatric vitamins for life because bariatric surgery can lead to nutrient deficiencies. You will need to ask your surgeon or nutritionist which ones are recommended, but you are almost sure to need a Bariatric Multivitamin. At first, a Liquid Multivitamin or Multivitamin Patch may be best so that you do not need to swallow capsules while on a liquid diet. These are fine for later stages, or you may prefer to switch to a Chewable or Capsule.
Many bariatric surgery patients take a separate Calcium Supplement. They often contain Vitamin D3 as well. Calcium Chews, in flavors such as Wild Grape, Belgian Chocolate Caramel, Strawberry Watermelon Twist, and French Vanilla Caramel, can be great choices for turning calcium into a highlight of the day.
Protein Shakes and Drinks
Great-tasting liquid protein supplements can get you through the liquid foods phase of the post-op diet without struggling to hit your protein goals. Protein Shakes and Smoothies come in almost every imaginable flavor, from Chocolate and Vanilla to Mango and Strawberry Banana. Protein Hot Drinks, such as Hot Cocoa and Mocha, are also low-carb and protein-packed.
Protein Soup
Protein Soups can be a welcome change of pace from sweeter or cold protein supplements. Flavors include Cream of Tomato, Cream of Chicken, Beef Bouillon, Bacon and Cheddar, and Cream of Mushroom, and they are all ready in minutes just by mixing a packet with hot water. They make a warming meal or snack during a time when many patients feel cold after bariatric surgery.
Best Products for the Pureed Foods Stage
The pureed foods stage widens your options, with possibilities such as pureed Protein Oatmeal and Protein Omelets. You can also puree Protein Entrees such as Sloppy Joe Mix, Creamy Chicken Pasta, and Protein Mashed Potatoes, and water them down if needed. Protein Puddings are a great option here.
Best Products for Solid Foods
Once you get to the solid foods stage, the variety increases dramatically. Along with being sure to include plenty of vegetables in your diet, you can check out the store for great-tasting Protein Entrees, such as Dry Riced Cauliflower and Broccoli and Five Bean Casserole. Protein Snacks come in Protein Pretzels, Protein Puffs, Protein Chips, and Protein Cookies, and you can get a quick meal or snack with any Protein Bar. Plus, Protein Cereal, Protein Granola, and Protein Breads are designed to keep you on a low-carb diet without feeling deprived.
Before getting bariatric surgery, it’s best to be prepared for what is to come. That includes stocking up on protein and essential vitamins and minerals to stay healthy while you recover from the procedure. The BariatricPal Store has what you need for each stage of the post-op diet progression, including Sample Menus for each stage. Be sure to stop by the store!
