Nutrition Education Before Lap Banding Surgery

Lap band surgery is on the rise. It is a popular way to lose weight and keep it off. Nutrition education is an important component of the surgery. It is important to have nutrition education and keep to a special diet both before and after the surgery.

Nutrition Education

Feel good

Nutrition education is an important component of lap band surgery. After the effects of the surgery wear off, you will be eating a different and smaller amount of food than you are used to. Nutrition education is important before surgery so you know what to expect and can cope afterward.

Back to Normal

Food portions

The importance of nutrition education before surgery is so you can get back to feeling like your normal self as soon as possible after the surgery. When you sit with your nutritionist, have a list of questions and bring your current medications so she can help you plan a diet that will be satisfying to you and nutritionally adequate.

Before the Surgery

Food portions

Your normal eating habits will change dramatically after the surgery. In order to not shock your body, it is best to start some of these habits slowly before the surgery. The easiest way to start is to begin by eating smaller portions. Take your normal plate of food and cut it in half. You should begin doing this as early as a month before the surgery. Your new stomach, after the surgery will only hold 1/2 cup of food at a time, this could be as little as 1/5 the amount you were used to.

Other Tips

Eating and enjoying

In addition to eating smaller portions, it is important to chew food thoroughly and eat slowly. Avoid chewing gum because it could block the stomach outlet if swallowed. It is better to eat smaller portions more frequently thoughout the day instead of large meals. Sit during each meal and view all the food on your plate before you eat. Start off your meal with a clear soup that can add to fullness and eliminate the possibility of overeating.

Relax

It is important to relax while you eat. Remember, you are shrinking your stomach and you will have to get used to a new way of eating. The best way to do this is to prepare yourself beforehand. Stick to small meals using a variety of food and don't overeat. The best way to increase your chances of feeling well soon after surgery is to do what you need to in advance.

References

• surgery