This is an exciting time, isn’t it? You’ve had metabolic and bariatric surgery and your new transformation has begun. But who are we kidding? It can also be a time of confusion and uncertainty. What do you eat now? In the next few days? What about these first 6-8 weeks? It can be overwhelming but I’m here to help you. I have helpful tips and suggested recommendations so you get the best outcome on your new journey.

Tip 1: you will fill up much more quickly than you did before surgery. Because you don’t have a lot of room for quantity, eat your protein food first. Chew it so well that you’re like a blender and it becomes pureed similar to baby food in your mouth. You want to get in that 60-80 grams of protein a day so starting with it first helps you be successful with that daily goal. Plus protein makes you feel full and satisfied.

Tip 2: this is the time to learn to eat very slowly with a meal taking 20-30 minutes. I know, unheard of here in the US where our meals tend to be gulp and go. Taking your time lets you feel and learn fullness cues. Stop when you are full and prevent vomiting and the stretching of your pouch from overeating.

Tip 3: now is the time to separate liquids from solid food. What does that mean? You may have heard it call the 30-30 rule. It means to drink your beverages 15-30 minutes before you eat and 30 minutes after you eat. Why does this matter? Your capacity for food is much smaller and you want to meet your food and fluid goals. You will accomplish this more easily by separating liquids from food. Remember 8+ cups of water or 2 plus liters is what you are aiming for each day along with your food.

Resources mentioned:

EP 50 How to choose the best protein powder

The 30-30 rules: do you need to follow it?

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