At the Norton Bariatric and Weight Management Program we understand the decision to undergo any type of surgery can be daunting. That’s why we work to provide our patients with information, expertise and compassion during the decision-making process.
The Norton Bariatric and Weight Management Program offers free informational seminars every week at two convenient locations. Patients are encouraged to attend these seminars to learn about our award-winning, fully accredited program and meet the surgeons and staff. Call (502) 629-1234 to register for a seminar, or visit
for more information.
Changing how you eat
Whether you choose to undergo laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding surgery or gastric bypass, you must understand the dietary and lifestyle changes you will be required to make to be successful. The Norton Bariatric and Weight Management Program offers individual and group counseling with dietitians who specialize in assisting bariatric patients. Our goal is to make sure individuals are fully aware of the types and amounts of food they will be able to eat after surgery. These changes must be maintained for the remainder of a person’s life to lose weight and maintain the weight loss.
Surgery as a tool
Bariatric surgery is a tool to assist individuals in losing excess weight. If the tool is used incorrectly, the procedure will not be as successful. Patients have specific diets they must follow for the laparoscopic gastric banding procedure and the gastric bypass procedure. Detailed information will be provided about foods to buy before surgery so the kitchen can be stocked with appropriate foods upon returning home. In addition, our support groups provide patients with samples of appropriate foods.
General dietary guidelines
The purpose of these guidelines is to provide adequate nutrition during your rapid weight loss after bariatric surgery. The amount of food your stomach can hold is very small, and excess food or beverage can cause vomiting, pain and/or diarrhea. It is very important to follow the rules below.
1. Eat slowly and chew foods until they are a mushy consistency. Set aside 20 to 30 minutes to eat each meal. Try to chew your food 20 to 30 times before swallowing. Focus on eating at mealtime; do not eat in front of the TV, computer or while driving.
2. Stop eating when your hunger is gone or you feel comfortable or satisfied. Your stomach will only be able to hold about ¼ cup (2 ounces) at a time. Extra food can cause vomiting, as well as stretch your stomach. If you eat until you are full, you have overeaten.
3. Eat three meals a day, do not snack and add a protein supplement. It is important to eat nourishing food and not get into the habit of snacking. Choose foods of high nutritional quality, such as meats, vegetables and fruit. Try to eat a lean source of protein at each meal (eggs, low-fat cheese, low-fat yogurt, chicken, turkey, fish, low-fat ground beef, beans, nuts) and then add fruit, vegetables or starch. The goal is to get at least 60 grams of protein each day. Foods low in nutrients, such as potato chips, candy and desserts, should be avoided to ensure greater weight loss and prevent “dumping syndrome” with gastric bypass patients. Gastric banding patients should stay away from thick meats and bread.
4. Drink at least 6 cups of liquid per day between meals. Staying well hydrated is very important, but you must consume liquids between meals. Sip on fluids all day long, stopping 30 minutes prior to eating and waiting 30 minutes after a meal before starting to sip again. Sip on fluids that are no/low-calorie, sugar-free, decaffeinated and uncarbonated; and do not use a straw. Sugar substitutes are allowed to sweeten fluids.
5. Take the recommended vitamin and mineral supplements each day. The volume of food you are now able to consume is much less than before your surgery. You will need to take a complete multivitamin every day to ensure you are meeting your vitamin/mineral requirements. A prenatal vitamin is recommended. We suggest you begin taking a vitamin before your surgery to get in the habit.
Gastric bypass patients also will have to take calcium, iron, vitamin E, zinc and vitamin B-12 supplements, which will be recommended by your surgeon.
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