Question:
What can I expect with post op diet issues?

I looked over the Atkins diet before but all my life it's been driven in my head....fruits & veggies. So after the WLS no fruits & veggies? How about soda? Diet? Will I be allowed to drink soda at all? In the past that has been the hardest for me to give up.    — Lori S. (posted on February 28, 2002)

February 28, 2002
A post op diet doesnt have to be a "diet" per se. It is a new way of life. I choose a variety of foods for my "diet"; including veggies, fruits, even pasta occassionally. My focus is on protein; but I eat everything else too. I have learned two things; everything in moderation and variety works best. Regarding soda, I drink some. It's not my choice beverage anymore but I do drink it. It hasnt damaged anything.
   — Jeannet

February 28, 2002
I always have veggies! At least 1 veggie with at least one meal. 2 nights ago, stemed broccolli with my meat. Last night, grean beans with chicken. Tonight-- peas with pork. Fruits?. Well, I've never been too fond of fruits. I do however love canned pears and have them occassionally. I can't handle watermelon. It made me dump once, so I haven't had it sense :o( I've handled bananas, but my taste buds don't crave bananas (or fruits) that often. Soda! Dr. Pepper! I used to go through 12 sodas in <2 days! I thought that would be the hardest thing for me to give up. Not really. I drink diet sodas. Usually a cup every few days. I try to go to caffiene free diet sodas; because I don't want to drink "extra" water to make up for the caffiene I just drank. The carbonation doesn't bother me. Best of luck~
   — Kristin R.

February 28, 2002
I am 3 months post-op and I eat veggies at least once a day and fruit 3 or 4 times a week. I also drink 4 ounces of V8 Juice every day. My surgeon insists that we try to eat a fairly balanced diet - just go easy on the simple carbs - like rice and bread and pasta. And of couse, no candy or chips, etc. We were told to drink carbonated beverages sparingly. Before surgery I drank 40-80 ounces of Classic Coke or Dr. Pepper every day. I haven't had anything carbonated since the day before my surgery on November 29 and I haven't missed it at all. I drink water and some Crystal Lite. Early pre-op, I drank more Crystal Lite than water - now I prefer water most of the time. I have pretty much lost my taste for sweet things and even Crystal Lite is too sweet most of the time. Good luck with your surgery.
   — Patty_Butler

February 28, 2002
Remember that your body NEEDS protein, carbohydrates and fat (yes, I said FAT) to function properly. When most people talk about no carbs, they really mean no starches or simple carbs. Fruits and veggies are fine. You just won't be able to eat a lot of them.
   — garw

March 1, 2002
I had RNY 2 years ago. I eat a normal diet, rarely eat fried foods. Yes, you will eat fruits and veggies! You should try to eat protein with every meal. Once you are past the healing period and get back into real foods, you should eat a normal diet, just much less of it. Best wishes.
   — Cindy H.

March 10, 2002
actually, cooked fruits and vegetables are fine, and you need them to keep you 'regular'. its the raw ones that alot of folks have trouble with. AS for the soda, aren't those calories your body just has no need for? I think after you are healed, it would be alright as long as you don't get bloated, but it will slow your wt loss down. I do indulge in sodas for special occasions, like a kids birthday party or something, but limit myself to only a small, 4 oz glass and pour from on high to get rid of some of the carbonation first. lets face it, sugars are sugars...and who wants to risk a dump on purpose?
   — Renee K.