Misconceptions Regarding Bariatric Surgery

The goal of bariatric surgery is to shed off the excess weight of the individual.

The weight loss process needs to be gradual because the body is not prepared for sudden weight loss.It needs time to adapt to the new shape and size. The body also needs to get prepared for the metabolic changes post bariatric surgery.

Generally, obese people have large appetites therefore pre bariatric diet helps them to inculcate healthy eating habits for a lifetime.

New lifestyle changes before surgery become very easy and convenient for patients to follow post-surgery.

Enlarged liver is seen in most of the obese population. The increased glycogen stores due to excess consumption of carbohydrates and fats leads to enlargement of liver size. The stomach is located below the liver and therefore the surgery gets complicated with an enlarged liver. Pre bariatric diet will help to reduce liver size by restricting free sugars and excess fat consumption. It becomes convenient for the surgeon to perform surgery with minimal complications.

Pre bariatric diet is very important as it will help in safe and successful surgery without any major complications. Diet ensures that the person loses weight gradually so that it becomes easy for the body to adapt to the new physiological or structural changes.

Pre-bariatric diet depends on the condition of the patient and may vary according to each patient. Patient with BMI above 35 with co-morbid conditions or above 40 requires a restrictive diet to maintain the weight prior to the surgery.

3 Month Pre Bariatric Diet -

Pre-bariatric diet consists of a low-calorie, high-protein, low-fat diet. The diet ensures a good amount of intake of micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. The pre-bariatric diet focuses on the intake of ample amounts of fluids.

Adequate amount of energy is required to maintain the normal weight status.
Complex carbohydrates food sources are encouraged as they have low glycemic index and are filled with micronutrients.Food sources such as whole wheat, ragi, jowar, bajra, etc.
Protein requirements are high during the pre surgery phase.High biological value protein rich food sources such as whole eggs,milk and milk products are suggested.Plant proteins recommended as they are easy digestible such as dal, legumes, pulses.To increase the bioavailability of plant protein proper cooking method like Soaking, sprouting is advised.
Fats are restricted to a certain amount but the body needs fats in advised proportion for the normal functioning of the body.Good quality fats like omega 3 is essential as these are antioxidants.Food sources of omega 3 includes walnuts,flax seeds,fatty fish etc
Ensure sufficient intake of micronutrients in daily diet to prevent the complications during surgery.Encourage a lot of fruits and vegetables to meet the micronutrients requirements.Micronutrients deficiency is seen in many patients pre bariatric surgeryLow glycemic index fruits such as apple, pear, guava ,berries ,plums ,etc.

Hydration is the key.Consume a lot of fluids such as soups,smoothies,buttermilk,etc

One or two weeks prior to the bariatric surgery the patient is advised to follow the liquid diet. This includes a high protein, low fat, and low sugar diet.

Liquid diet includes

Clear soups
Protein shakes
Fruit /Vegetable Smoothies
Milk
Buttermilk
Infused water
Milkshakes
Dal soups/Vegetable soup

General Guidelines

Reduce the consumption of high carbohydrates food such as refined flour,fruit juices,sugary drinks,bread,pasta,potatoes etc
Increase the protein intake
Limit the portion size of the meals
Chew the food slowly and thoroughly
Consume nutrients dense meals
Keep the body hydrated by consuming lot of fluids
Avoid processed foods such as namkeens/biscuits/cakes/pastries etc as they are high in fat and sodium.
Eliminate high fat food sources or fried food such as vada pav, culets ,samosa pav etc
Avoid caffeinated beverages like tea/coffee etc
Avoid carbonated beverages
Avoid alcohol to keep the calories in count.
Avoid smoking completely
Exercise daily to increase the basal metabolic rate.