How to Survive the Liquid Stage After Bariatric Surgery
Congratulations on your weight loss surgery. Now what? First up in the recovery process is the liquid stage, in which you can only drink liquids and not eat any solid foods. This phase can last a few days or weeks, depending on your type of surgery and your surgeon’s go-ahead. Tough as this phase can be, the BariatricPal Store has liquids for hydration and for meeting protein needs that can keep you on track and give you a solid foundation for ongoing weight loss.
Hydration
The goal is to get at least 8 8-ounce cups of water a day. That can be challenging if water starts to taste funny or swallowing is tough. Flavored water, decaffeinated tea, and Sipping Broth are all healthy alternatives to plain water. A Water Bottle or Hydration Reminder can help you remember to drink throughout the day.
Comfort and familiarity may be welcome when you are fighting pain and trying to get used to your new lifestyle. Does a cup of coffee sound good? There’s no need to avoid it just because your surgeon wants you to skip caffeine and acid. Just make yourself a cup of Decaffeinated Acid-Free Coffee from ground or whole beans, or using a K Cup.
Liquid Proteins
Protein is essential after weight loss surgery for optimal healing, along with maintaining a strong immune system and reducing the loss of lean muscle mass as you lose weight. Your surgeon or nutritionist may give you a personalized goal, but many experts suggest getting at least 60 grams per day. That is about as much as you would get in a half-pound of chicken, but chicken is not an option on a liquid diet!
These are our picks for liquid protein options to help you meet your needs.
Protein Tip #1: Protein Shakes and Powders
Sugar-free protein shakes and powders can give you 12 to 35 grams of protein per serving, and they taste great! With Chocolate, Vanilla, and everything in between, the only way you can go wrong is by not trying them all. Protein Hot Drinks in Mocha, Hot Chocolate, and more are great for when you are recovering at home.
If you are craving something fruity, do not waste your time with protein-free, sugar-loaded fruit juices and drinks. Instead, get up to 15 grams of protein per serving of sugar-free Protein Fruit Drinks and Smoothies.
Protein Tip #2: Protein Soups
Are you ready for something savory and warm? Protein Soups have 15 grams of protein and come in flavors such as Tomato, Chicken Noodle, Beef Bouillon, and Cream of Mushroom. Our Meal Replacement Soup varieties are fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Protein Tip #3: Protein Shots
How can you get enough protein when your new, teeny-tiny pouch will barely hold anything? Protein shots may be the answer. In a scant 1 to 2 ounces, they can provide over 30 grams of protein and taste great, too!
Vitamins and Minerals
Liquid Vitamins and Minerals can keep you nourished while you are not eating much food or able to swallow large capsules. Sublinguals, Quick Melts, and topical Patches can also do the trick.
The BariatricPal Store has your back while you are recovering from weight loss surgery and are on a liquid diet. With plenty of fluids and protein, and the right vitamins and minerals, you have a better shot at recovering faster and losing more weight in the long run. We are here for you!
