Diet Stage 1—Clear Liquids
On average, the clear liquid stage of the post-weight loss surgery diet lasts two days.
Your weight loss surgeon will tell you when you are ready to begin incorporating other items into your diet. Follow the guidelines provided to you by your weight loss surgeon. This guide provides an overview of what is typical of the post-bariatric surgery experience, but will not replace the expert advice provided to you personally by your surgeon.
Clear Liquids after Weight Loss Surgery
Your stomach will be swollen in the first several days after weight loss surgery. To allow it to heal, it is best that you restrict your diet only to clear liquids. Your weight loss surgeon may recommend that you take a multivitamin to prevent nutritional deficiencies while your diet is restricted.
Water is crucial for your body’s ability to heal after weight loss surgery, but you are not limited to only drinking water during these few days. Your diet at this point can include other clear and non-caloric beverages.
Here is a list of drinkable clear liquids you can have after weight loss surgery:
- No-sugar-added apple juice, cranberry juice or grape juice
- Hot and iced tea without added sugar or milk
- Hot and iced black coffee
- Chicken broth
- Vegetable broth
- Beef broth
Some protein shakes may be acceptable, but not all of them. Your weight loss surgeon can tell you what type of shakes are okay during this point of your diet.
Drinking Clear Liquids after Weight Loss Surgery
Even though you are only drinking clear liquids, you need to be careful not to put too much pressure on your stomach as it heals. Whether you are drinking water, juice or broth, make sure you take small sips and drink slowly. You will want to consume liquids in two ounce servings to prevent discomfort.
Large gulps can result in gas, which can be uncomfortable and even dangerous during the early days after weight loss surgery. Drinking too fast can also lead to nausea and vomiting.
Make sure you stay hydrated during the first few days after weight loss surgery. Your weight loss surgeon will give you exact instructions as to how much liquid you should be consuming and how often.