A bariatric diet refers to a special meal that features a limited amount of food to help a person lose weight. This is recommended for obese people who have just undergone a bariatric surgery. This type of medical procedure is said to be the only method that can help extremely obese adults reduce weight and their risk of developing heart diseases.
A diet of this type is normally given after the surgery. Patients are advised to strictly follow their diet and change their lifestyle to attain success. Those who are able to do so can expect to experience rapid weight loss, maintain a lean body mass and improve their overall health moving forward.
This particular diet plan has several specific objectives but its end goal is to help an obese person lose weight and avoid complications moving forward.
1. Teach a patient the proper eating habits.
2. Allow consumption of sufficient amounts of protein to maintain lean body mass.
3. Encourage intake of fluids for hydration.
4. Provide vitamin and mineral supplementation to gain proper nutrients.
Low-calorie, high-protein food
Only small portions of food are allowed in this bariatric diet. The focus is on lowering the calorie, fat and sweet intake of patients thus avoiding fruits, rice and bread.
Protein intake is emphasized but pork and steak are not allowed. The reason is that they cannot be easily digested compared to the ground meat. High-protein foods strongly recommended are eggs, fish, poultry, tuna, seafood, soy milk, cottage cheese and other milk products.
Fluids
Increased fluid consumption is advised as well to keep the body hydrated. The emphasis is on water and other low-calorie or calorie-free liquids and caffeine-free drinks. They should be taken in between meals if possible.
The recommendation is about two liters of liquid per day. This is equivalent to about one cup between each small meal or six to eight times a day.
Supplements
Both vitamins and minerals are important part of the bariatric diet. They should be taken on a daily basis to meet the required nutrients.
For the multivitamins, the chewable type is best to take. Normally, two tablets should be taken every day for the first three months after the surgery and once daily after that.
Vitamins D and B12 are important. Calcium is also recommended although some patients may also need calcium, folic acid and iron particularly for women who still have their monthly period.
It should be noted that a full liquid diet needs to be followed immediately after the surgery. This will last for three weeks after which the person can start eating solid foods but again, only in small portions.