Fluid Diet: Post Weight Loss Surgery

​So you took the leap, congratulations! I know how brave you are to go ahead with this life changing surgery so well done! Your new life and constant sipping starts now.......

For the first little while after surgery, you will be asked to follow a fluid diet. Given all surgeon’s rooms are different, you’ll need to rely on your surgical team for the specific details. Today I have focused the blog on tips that might help make the journey smoother.
 
Why fluids? Along with allowing time for the surgical wounds to heal, the fluid diet allows you to learn about your new stomach, what and how much you can tolerate.
 
How much fluid and for how long? This depends on your surgeon’s rooms. Ask them how much they suggest you have and for how long you need to follow the diet.
 
What fluids? Something is a fluid if it runs out of the bottom of a strainer. Each surgeon’s rooms will have guidelines on specifically what you are to be drinking during this diet phase. The main 2 things to focus on during this stage is hydrate and protein!
 
Tips for Success!

1. Sip frequently
   1. Whilst awake constantly sip on the fluids you have been prescribed. You can’t play catch up!
2. Don’t fill up on water at the expense of protein
   1. Focus on fluids that are both hydrating and protein rich. Use water to just sip on between these other fluids. Ask your dietitian for a list of recommended fluids.
3. Track your fluid intake
   1. Grab a notebook/diary and write down the amounts you sip and make a daily tally. That way you can be working towards the targets set by your team.
   2. Utilise apps to record electronically if this suits you better
4. Use a visual reminder to sip, sip sip
   1. If forgetting to sip frequently, set s reoccurring reminder on your phone, kitchen timer or use a hydration reminder like an Ulla. Check out the great designs on our online shop!
5. Try a variety of fluids
   1. Your taste is likely to change so try a variety of fluids from the prescribed list, even if they are not fluids you would have liked in the past.
   2. You may be on the diet for a couple of weeks so keep the variety going so you don’t get bored.
6. Take your time
   1. Listen to your new stomach and stop when comfortable.
7. Flag problems/concerns early
   1. Communicate with your surgical team if you have any concerns so they can help you promptly. I am sure they will be only too happy to help. If not, there are bariatric dietitians in the community who can assist with your dietary care.
8. Prepare
   1. Spend the time leading up to your surgery getting yourself ready for the first few weeks after surgery. Stock your fridge, freezer and cupboard with the prescribed fluids. You won’t feel like hitting the shops straight after your surgery.

 
Our lovely team at Dr James Askew’s rooms would be delighted to support you as you embark on your weight loss journey. We provide you with comprehensive pre and post op appointments and take pride in really looking after the people we care for. For more information, please feel free to reach out via our contact us page.
 

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A little bit about me
I am an experienced bariatric dietitian and owner of Simply Nutrition Dietitians. I am privileged to be part of Dr James Askew’s weight loss surgery team based out of the Sunshine Coast. As a team, we pride ourselves on creating a safe space for our clients to speak and be heard. We walk alongside you throughout your weight loss journey and guide your post-op care through routine nutritional screens, regular follow-ups, psychology input, helping you to manage your diet throughout the journey and advising on suitable vitamin and mineral supplements. Once you join our team, we are friends for life!
 
I am passionate about:

• Taking the time to listen and understand what each person needs and wants
• Making sure every client understands the information I have provided
• Supporting clients to find the best plan for them
• Helping people to achieve their own goals for better health

Disclaimer: This information is intended as general advice for people who have or intend to under-go weight loss surgery. This information does not replace the individual advice provided by a client’s medical, surgical, psychology or dietetic health care team. If you are requiring individual advice from a dietitian (such as advice on textural upgrades, pathology or vitamin and mineral supplementation), please book in with a dietitian or reach out to us to book an in-person, phone or online consultation.

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