Getting Through the Liquid Phase
Nobody said bariatric surgery would be easy, and the liquid phase is a challenge that comes early in the journey. As you recover from surgery, it is important to stick to liquids and avoid solid foods, and to get enough protein. By the time the liquid phase is over, you may be starting to feel better and lose weight.
Basics of the Liquid Phase
You may be on a clear liquid diet for a day or a couple of days after your procedure, and the full liquid phase of the post-op diet starts after that. It may last for a few days or weeks, and includes clear liquids and high-protein liquids. They can include the following.
- Low-Carb Protein Shakes and Beverages
- Protein Shake Meal Replacements
- Protein Broths and Soups
- Milk and soy milk
- Sugar-Free Protein Gelatin and Pudding
Your surgeon or nutritionist should be able to give you a complete list of what you can and cannot have during this phase. You will also want to be sure to have plenty of water or other hydrating fluids.
Sample Menu
Are you wondering what to eat and how to structure your meals and snacks while on the liquid phase? You and your healthcare provider can work together to come up with a meal plan that works for you, but you can also check out our Sample Meal Plans for inspiration and ideas.
A day on the liquid phase could look something like this.
- Breakfast: Vanilla Meal Replacement Shake
- Snack: Strawberry Banana Protein Smoothie
- Lunch: Cream of Mushroom Protein Soup
- Snack: Protein Hot Cocoa
- Dinner: BariatricPal Protein One Chicken Soup
Protein Shakes and Smoothies
Protein Shakes and Smoothies offer a quick hit of protein without excessive sugar and carbohydrates. They are delicious and come in flavors for any mood. Chocolate, Vanilla, Peanut Butter, Caramel, Strawberry, and Cinnamon are a few flavors that you might find in our inventory, but they are just the beginning.
Just mix your protein powder or smoothie mix into water or milk for a great shake. They come in multi-serving tubs and in single-serving packets to be as convenient as possible.
Protein Soup and Bouillon
Warm and savory options can provide nice alternatives to cold and sweet Protein Shakes. BariatricPal Protein Soups and Bouillons come in all kinds of low-carb flavors. Examples include Cream of Tomato, Cream of Vegetable, Broccoli Cheese, Chicken with Pasta, and more.
Hot Protein Drinks
Who says you cannot indulge while on a liquid diet? Hot Protein Drinks come in a variety of flavors, including Hot Cocoa in Classic, Marshmallow, Mint, Raspberry, and Irish Cream. We also have Mocha, Vanilla Cappuccino, Chai Tea, and Pumpkin Spice Latte in low-carb, high-protein packets.
Getting through the liquid phase of the post-op bariatric surgery diet is a challenge, but there are ways to make it easier and more successful. The BariatricPal Store has a variety of delicious choices that can boost protein intake and keep your meal plan interesting and satisfying. Once you are done with the liquid phase, be sure to check back to look at our collections of pureed, semi-solid, and solid meals and snacks to keep you satisfied and nourished as you lose weight. We are here to help you succeed!
