Eating for Life Resources

Resources & Helpful Links

Find downloadable resources, helpful links, and answers to common questions.

                               

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Healthy Eating and Diet

Nutrition guides, meal plans, vitamin information, and healthy eating resources after weight loss surgery.

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Exercise and Activity

Resources to help you safely increase physical activity and build lifelong healthy habits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about preparing for surgery, recovery, nutrition, and follow-up care.

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Healthy Eating Videos

Explore these videos to learn about healthy eating habits, nutrition choices, and strategies for making healthy choices in everyday life.

5 Ingredients for Healthy Eating
4 Benefits of Healthy Eating
Healthy Eating in Social Situations
Healthy Eating: Make It Work for You

Healthy Eating Resources

Explore these patient education resources for guidance on nutrition, meal planning, vitamins, and building healthy habits after weight loss surgery. Select a resource below to view or download the PDF.

Sweeteners in Your Diet Vitamins and Minerals After Weight Loss Surgery The Preoperative Meal Plan The Postoperative Diet Meal Plans for After Surgery Eating for a Lifetime: Tips for Continued Success
 


Fitness Videos

Explore these videos to learn more about movement, strength, balance, and flexibility.

Moving More
Aerobic Activity
Balance Activity
Muscle-Strengthening Activities
Key Components of Exercise
Strengthening Your Core
Stretching and Flexibility
Exercise: Make It Work for You


Physical Activity Resources

Explore these patient education resources for help staying active. Select a resource below to view or download the PDF.

Being Active: A Way of Life Exercises to Help Prevent Falls Whole-Body Resistance Band Workout
 


Questions About Eating After Surgery

Many people have questions about eating after weight loss surgery. These are some common questions that have been asked by other people who are on a weight-loss journey.

Can I use spices and condiments on foods?

Spices, herbs, and condiments are great ways to add flavor when used in moderation.

Be sure to choose low-fat, sugar-free condiments. Avoid eating anything spicy for 3 months after surgery.

I don’t like the flavor of protein shakes. Can I add flavor to make it taste better?

You can add a little bit of flavor extract or sugar-free syrup to protein shakes to make them taste better. There are many different flavored syrups in the coffee aisle at the grocery store. Find one that you like!

How many calories a day should I eat after surgery?

For the first 2 months after surgery, aim for 400 to 600 calories each day. Your dietitian will tell you when you are able to slowly add more.

When can I add starches (rice, breads, etc.) back into my diet?

Wait 3 months after surgery before adding starches back into your diet.

When you start to add starches into your diet, choose foods with at least 3 grams of fiber per serving. It is important to remember to always eat in this order: start with protein, then vegetables, then fruit, and eat starches last (if you have room left).

Eating meat makes my stomach hurt. Is this normal?

You might have discomfort or pain in your stomach when you eat meat that is dry or very tough. It can help to add low-calorie gravy or sauce. Some people are able to eat certain types of meat (chicken, beef, pork), but not others. Try a few kinds and see which type your body is able to digest.

Call us if you are not able to eat any types of meat or solid protein. This could mean that there is a complication in your recovery from surgery.

Are there any foods that might cause blockages?

Foods that have seed shells/husks contain fibers that may not digest completely. This includes coconut, persimmons, pomegranate seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.

If eaten on a regular basis, the fiber may build up over time and cause a ball (bezoar) to form. Many people do not know that the bezoar is there. This could lead to a blockage, but this is rare.

Ask your registered dietitian for guidance about eating these foods.


Contact & Support

Have questions about your care or need additional support? Use the resources below to connect with your care team.

                                               

Program Name Here

Phone: (207) XXX-XXXX
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM

MyChart

Use MyChart to send non-urgent messages, review your health information, view appointments, and stay connected with your healthcare team.

Access MyChart

Additional Support

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