Post-Bariatric Surgery Nutrition Guide: Key Points for the First 6 Months

Nutrition after bariatric surgery (sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass) is critically important to support the healing process, prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and promote healthy weight loss.
The primary goals during this period are:

• Adequate protein intake (60–80 g per day) to prevent muscle loss,
• Small portions suited to the reduced stomach size,
• Eating slowly and chewing thoroughly,
• Drinking fluids 30 minutes before or after meals (not during),
• Avoiding dumping syndrome (rapid gastric emptying).

1st Week: Clear Liquid Phase

In the first week after surgery, only clear liquids are allowed.
This phase is crucial to avoid straining the stomach and to support wound healing.

Key Points:

• Choose sugar-free and caffeine-free liquids.
• Aim for 1.5–2 liters of fluid intake daily.
• Avoid using straws (to prevent swallowing air and causing discomfort).

Sample Nutrition Plan:

• Morning: Milk with added protein powder
• Snack: Strained apple compote
• Lunch: Fat-free beef or chicken broth
• Snack: Herbal tea (mint or chamomile)
• Dinner: Milk with added protein powder

2nd Week: Full Liquid Phase

During this phase, thicker, protein-rich liquids are introduced.

Recommended Liquids:

• Milk or yogurt with added protein powder,
• Pureed soups (such as tomato or zucchini),
• Plain buttermilk or kefir.

Additional Foods Recommended for Week 2:

• Yogurt,
• Strained cottage cheese,
• Egg whites.

Key Points:

• Fiber-rich foods should not be introduced yet.
• Foods must be completely smooth — no solid pieces.

3rd Week: Pureed Foods Phase

At this stage, soft purees and mashed foods are added to the diet.

Additional Foods for Week 3:

• Boiled egg (well mashed),
• Avocado puree,
• Blender-pureed chicken or beef,
• Eggplant puree.

Important:
Each meal should last 20–30 minutes, and each bite should be thoroughly chewed.

4th Week: Soft Solids Phase

During this phase, you transition to soft foods that can be mashed easily with a fork.

Sample Menu:

• Breakfast: Cottage cheese + grated cucumber
• Lunch: Well-cooked fish
• Dinner: Minced meat spinach dish + yogurt

Key Points:

• Avoid tough meats, dried fruits, and raw vegetables at this stage.

5th Week and Beyond: Transition to Solid Foods and Ongoing Process

Normal solid foods can now be gradually introduced. However:

• Continue prioritizing protein intake.
• Limit each meal to ½ cup (60–80 ml) portion sizes.
• Extend chewing time for each bite.

Sample Solid Food Meal Plan:

• Breakfast: Omelet
• Snack: Kefir (with added protein powder)
• Lunch: Grilled chicken + steamed broccoli
• Snack: Yogurt
• Dinner: Minced meat vegetable dish

Result: Summary of the First 6 Months

Reminder: This process is personalized for each individual.

If you wish, you can check out our recipes at Bariatric Kitchen and visit our Türkçapar Bariatrics website for more information.