Gastric Sleeve Surgery – Tips to Stay on Track with the Pre-Op Diet

The pre-op gastric sleeve diet plan is a requirement for all patients before their surgical procedure. Most patients are told to begin this diet three weeks before their gastric sleeve surgery.

There are many reasons why it is essential to stick to this diet plan. By starting the strict pre-op diet, it will be much easier for you to lose weight and decrease your BMI before the day of your surgery. Any weight you can lose before your gastric sleeve procedure reduces your risk of complications during or after the surgery. The diet will also help shrink your liver and lower your intra-abdominal fat, making things much easier for the surgeon.

The pre-op diet makes the transition to your new lifestyle easier as well. Recovering from surgery and learning to adjust to your new diet and lifestyle can be overwhelming. By establishing a healthy diet several weeks before the procedure, the additional changes you will face after the surgery will be much simpler and easier to deal with.

How to Stick with Your Pre-Diet for Gastric Sleeve Surgery

The pre-op diet for gastric sleeve surgery mainly consists of liquids such as protein shakes and other low-calorie, low-carb foods that are easily digested. The additional protein helps strengthen and protect your muscle tissue, allowing your body to burn more fat than muscle for energy. While it has many benefits, sticking to the pre-op diet can be challenging for many patients. Here are a few useful tips that will encourage you to continue your diet as you prepare your body for the procedure.

1. Think About the Benefits

Typically, most patients will lose around 10 to 15 pounds while on the pre-op diet. It helps to jump-start your future diet and lifestyle as you get used to eating more low carbohydrates, fat, and calories and high in protein, vitamins, and nutrients.

2. Find Support Groups in Your Area or Online

Switching to an all-liquid diet can be both mentally and physically challenging. You can get support from others on the same journey as you by looking for groups in your local area or searching online for support groups on social media and forums, and message boards.

3. Find Diet Options Similar to Your Favorite Foods

Look for liquid diet options in flavors you enjoy. Consider making smoothies with your favorite fruits or add in some vegetables to create a nutrient-filled shake. Don’t be afraid to try something new. You may discover something that will help curb your cravings and improve your health at the same time.

4. Exercise or Meditate

Exercising and meditation can help improve your physical and mental well-being. These activities will help take your focus off your food cravings and allow you to focus on improving your body and overall health.

5. Remember Why You Are Doing It

The pre-op diet is designed to prepare your body for the gastric sleeve procedure. It will help make things easier for both you and the surgeon. Not only will it help you get used to your new diet plan you’ll be on after the surgery, but it will also reduce your liver size, improve your immune system to aid in faster recovery time, and help you get started on your weight loss journey.

Want to Learn More About Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

At Bass Bariatric Surgery Center, we offer multiple weight loss surgery options at our Walnut Creek and Brentwood locations. Whether you are interested in a Gastric Sleeve procedure or want to learn more about Gastric Band or Bypass surgery, our professional team is here to help. Contact us today to request a consultation appointment.