Stage 1 Clear Liquids

This will be my first step after my surgery. This information is from bariatriceating.com, as is the photo.

This is why I have been making and canning my own beef and chicken stocks.

I know what is in them so I know what I am putting into my body.

I will be avoiding sugars and sugar alcohols as they can cause "dumping syndrome". I will explain this in my next post.

In this article you will notice the mention of whey protein powders and other protein containing items. Protein is essential for healing and prevention of hair loss. Since I won't be able to get my protein by eating, a substitute is needed.

The First Post-op ‘Eating’ Stage

In the first stage after surgery patients should drink clear liquids; defined as liquids that one can see through. Doctors require anywhere from a few days up to even two weeks of clear fluids after surgery to minimize need for digestion, and lessen production of solid waste; allowing your gastrointestinal system to heal.

Liquids should be sipped slowly; gulping can cause pain. Do not use a straw as it will trap air in the stomach pouch; this trapped gas can be very uncomfortable.

Immediately after surgery you must drink enough fluids to keep hydrated. There is a small percentage of post-ops who are re-hospitalized because of dehydration, so it is important to sip fluids constantly throughout the day. Start slowly from 4 to 6 cups of liquid a day and increase as tolerated to at least two quarts a day. If your urine has become dark or concentrated you are not drinking enough water or fluids. You should have a cup or glass near you at all times and sip, sip, sip.

Most of us can drink plain water without difficulty after our bariatric procedure. Others find that water irritates their pouch. Warm drinks are often soothing as the heat relaxes the muscles and tissues in the pouch. In contrast, 'ice cold' sometimes 'clenches' the pouch and restricts flow of liquids. There are clear type proteins that can be blended with Crystal Light or used solo in this stage that will help your body to heal. If a Nectar protein or New Whey Protein Bullet or even Crystal Light tastes too sweet USE MORE WATER or add crushed ice to dilute it to your taste. Very little, if anything will taste good at this point and you will not necessarily be happy with your choices; you still have to drink water and move through this stage.

This is purposely a very limited diet so hang in there and do not progress to next stage until you are told to.

The following are allowable clear liquids:

-Water

-Crystal Light or Sugar Free Kool Aid - use 2 to 3 times as much water as usual

-Sugar Free Jell-O-Herbal tea, Celestial Seasonings flavors are very soothing

-Sugar Free Popsicles

-Broth or Boullion, heat then blend in a spoonful of Any Whey instantized protein

New Whey Protein Bullets, Grape, Orange, Fruit Punch

Nectar fruit juice-type protein to blend into Crystal Light

Zero carb Isopure, glass bottles - Green Tea and Grape Frost are delicious.