If you are considering the Adjustable Gastric Band (LAP-BAND® or REALIZE® Band), you probably have a lot of questions about what you can and cannot eat after surgery. The team at Lap Band Rockies has all the information you need to understand what life with a Band is like.
After weight loss surgery, the key to success is portion size. The Band is so effective because it helps you achieve hunger satisfaction with a reduced volume of food. But you also need to ensure you are eating healthful meals that provide optimum nutrition from the recommended food groups.
Some patients worry that having the Band means they won’t get to enjoy their favorite foods. While you need to make sure your body receives necessary vitamins and minerals through good food choices, you can enjoy small amounts of the foods you love in moderation. Keep in mind that empty calories are counterproductive, however, and that the more nutritious your food choices, the more likely you are to see results and maintain them over time.
Sample Daily Diet for an Adjustable Gastric Band Patient*
- 1 to 2 servings of fresh fruit
- 2 to 3 servings of fresh vegetables
- 1 – 2 serving of whole grain in the form of bread, oatmeal, or other grain cereals
- 2 to 4 ounces of lean meat, fish or poultry, grilled, steamed, or broiled, or one egg
- 2 cups of lowfat milk or yogurt, or 1 ounce low-fat cheese
- 3 to 4 teaspoons of margarine, butter or oil per day
- lowfat salad dressings and mayonnaise, used in moderation
- zero or low-calorie beverages including non-carbonated drinks, tea, coffee, clear soup and broths, and water
Foods to Watch After the Band Procedure
Because your stomach opening is smaller with the Band, you should take caution with certain foods that may cause blockage, such as peanut and other nut butters, shrimp, dried meats and fruits, thick breads, pasta, rice, popcorn, nuts, and citrus fruits . These foods are not out of the question, they may simply may need to be introduced gradually and in small pieces.
There are some foods that should be avoided, or used only on occasion, as they are of little benefit to your body. These “taboo” foods include candy, cake, soft drinks, alcohol, rich dips, and fatty meats. You doctor can help you pinpoint what types of foods can inhibit your Band results.
Don’t Worry, You’ll Have Help!
Weight loss surgery support is crucial in reaching your ideal weight. At Lap Band Rockies, nutritionist Dr. Paula Peirce helps each Band patient design an ideal nutrition plan to accomplish optimal health while reaching personal weight loss targets. Learn more about what has worked for others by reading a variety success stories and viewing weight loss surgery photos.
To discuss the dietary recommendations after Adjustable Gastric Band, please contact Dr. Gerald Kirshenbaum today for an informative personal consultation. If you would like to learn more about life after the Band, check out next week’s blog on nutrition supplements.
—Lindsey Kesel, Bariatric Consultant
*Dietary guidelines recommendations from www.lapband.com.
