Gastrectomy Surgery Diet: What to Eat Before the Procedure
If you are preparing for a gastrectomy surgery, your doctor may recommend dietary changes in the weeks or months leading up to the procedure. These changes can help to improve your overall health, reduce the risk of complications, and ensure that your body is in the best possible condition for the surgery. In this article, we’ll provide a guide to the gastrectomy surgery diet and what to eat before the procedure.
Gastrectomy surgery is a procedure that involves removing all or part of the stomach. This surgery may be recommended for a variety of conditions, including stomach cancer, peptic ulcers, and other digestive disorders. Prior to the surgery, your doctor may recommend dietary changes to ensure that your body is in the best possible condition for the procedure.
Why Follow a Gastrectomy Surgery Diet?
Following a gastrectomy surgery diet can help to:
Ensure that your body is in the best possible condition for the surgery
Reduce the risk of complications during and after the procedure
Promote healing and recovery after the surgery
Improve your overall health and well-being
What to Eat Before Gastrectomy Surgery?
When preparing for gastrectomy surgery, it’s important to focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide your body with the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients it needs to function properly. Here are some foods to include in your gastrectomy surgery diet:
Protein-rich Foods
Protein is essential for tissue repair and growth, making it an important nutrient to include in your diet before and after the surgery. Good sources of protein include:
- Lean meats, such as chicken, turkey, and fish
- Eggs
- Legumes, such as beans and lentils
- Nuts and seeds
- Tofu and other soy products
- Whole Grains
Whole grains are a good source of fiber, which can help to promote digestive health and reduce the risk of complications after the surgery. Good sources of whole grains include:
- Whole wheat bread, pasta, and crackers
- Brown rice
- Quinoa
- Oatmeal
- Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are essential for good health. Good sources of fruits and vegetables include:
- Berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
- Leafy greens, such as spinach and kale
- Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower
- Root vegetables, such as carrots and sweet potatoes
- Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are important for nutrient absorption and energy production. Good sources of healthy fats include:
- Avocado
- Nuts and seeds
- Olive oil
- Fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna
- Low-Fat Dairy Products
Dairy products are a good source of calcium and other important nutrients, but it’s important to choose low-fat options to reduce the risk of complications after the surgery. Good sources of low-fat dairy products include:
- Skim milk
- Low-fat cheese
- Greek yogurt
- Water and Other Hydrating
Staying hydrated is important before and after the surgery. Be sure to drink plenty of water and other hydrating beverages, such as herbal tea and coconut water.
What to Avoid Before Gastrectomy Surgery
In addition to focusing on nutrient-dense foods, it’s important to avoid certain foods and beverages before gastrectomy surgery. Here are some things to avoid:
High-Fat Foods
High-fat foods can be difficult to digest and may increase the risk of complications after the surgery. Avoid foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, such as:
- Fried foods
- Fatty cuts of meat
- Full-fat dairy products
- Processed foods, such as cakes, cookies, and chips
- Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in sodium, preservatives, and other additives that can be difficult to digest and may increase the risk of complications after the surgery. Avoid foods that are highly processed, such as:
- Packaged snacks
- Fast food
- Frozen meals
- Sugary Foods and Beverages
Sugary foods and beverages can be difficult to digest and may increase the risk of complications after the surgery. Avoid foods that are high in sugar, such as:
- Candy
- Soda
- Sweetened beverages
- Alcohol
Alcohol can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients and may increase the risk of complications after the surgery. Avoid drinking alcohol in the weeks leading up to the procedure.
Gastrectomy Surgery Diet Sample Menu
Here is a sample menu for a gastrectomy surgery diet:
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt with berries and granola
- Snack: Apple slices with almond butter
- Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa and roasted vegetables
- Snack: Carrots and hummus
- Dinner: Baked salmon with brown rice and steamed vegetables
- Snack: Mixed nuts
Remember to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets your individual needs and preferences.
Following a gastrectomy surgery diet can help to improve your overall health, reduce the risk of complications, and promote healing and recovery after the procedure. Focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide your body with the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients it needs to function properly. Avoid high-fat, processed, and sugary foods, as well as alcohol. And remember to consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets your individual needs and preferences. Before and after gastrectomy surgery, you can lose weight in a healthy and fast way by eating in the most correct way with the service we provide together with nutrition education.