Introduction
It is important to start making adjustments in your diet to facilitate weight loss from the time of your initial consult. Dr. Gluck will let you know the amount of weight loss he would like to see. This helps you prepare physically and mentally for the lifestyle changes that must take place and lower your risk during surgery. Do not get caught up in the “last meals” celebration as this will cause you to gain weight and show Dr. Gluck you are not mentally prepared to make the necessary lifestyle changes. Below are guidelines to follow as well as a list of foods to eat and avoid.
Confronting Bad Habits and Negative Behaviors
- It is important that you confront these issues now, rather than after surgery. These habits can inhibit the success of your surgery and cause potentially painful consequences.
- Eating too fast
- Overeating or being accustomed to large quantities of food
- Snacking or eating out of boredom
- Emotional eating
- Binge eating
Basic Diet strategies Before Surgery
- This diet is low fat, high fiber, and high protein. You will be limiting sugars and simple starches.
- Eat 3 portion controlled meals and 1-2 small, healthy snacks. Do not skip meals-going too long without eating causes your body to go into “starvation mode” and not burn calories.
- Eat every 3-5 hours
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Eat lean protein at each meal followed by veggies and fruit
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Drink 64oz. of non-caloric, non-caffeinated fluids daily. Wean yourself of caffeine and alcohol.
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Limit starches such as cereal, potatoes, corn, rice, peas, pasta, crackers, bread, rolls, tortilla shells. Choose whole grain option in their place.
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Avoid all simple sugars
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Avoid added fats
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Avoid fast food
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Learn to read food labels
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Practice portion control
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Practice slowing down and waiting 30 minutes after a meal before drinking
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You may substitute a meal with a liquid protein drink if interested
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Start taking a multivitamin with minerals and calcium.
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Start a food diary-you bite it, you write it! This is the first step in being honest with yourself.