The post-sleeve gastrectomy diet is designed to: (1)

• Allow your stomach to heal without stretching or being damaged by the food you eat.
• Help you adjust to eating smaller portions that your smaller stomach can comfortably and safely digest.
• Help lose weight and prevent regain.
• Avoid common side effects and complications from the surgery.

Stages of the Post-Sleeve Gastrectomy Diet

Dietary recommendations after gastric sleeve surgery vary by individual but generally follow a gradual plan to help you transition back to solid foods. 

This process typically takes 6–8 weeks, depending on how quickly your body heals and adapts to changes in eating patterns. (1)(2)

General Guidelines for All Stages:

• Drink at least 2 liters of fluids daily to prevent dehydration.
• Chew food thoroughly until it becomes a soft paste before swallowing.
• Avoid drinking fluids during meals: Wait about 30 minutes after eating before drinking, and stop drinking fluids 30 minutes before meals.
• Eat and drink slowly to prevent dumping syndrome (when food moves too quickly into the intestines).
• Divide meals into 3–6 very small portions.
• Choose high-protein, low-fat, and low-sugar foods daily.
• Avoid sugary beverages, as they can cause dumping syndrome and provide empty calories. Consider using artificial sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit sparingly
• Avoid caffeine during the first few weeks, as it can cause dehydration and acid reflux. Decaffeinated coffee is an option.
• Take prescribed vitamins and mineral supplements as directed by your doctor.
• Avoid carbonated beverages, including sugary and diet sodas, as they can cause bloating and gas.

Diet Stages After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

1. Clear Liquids (Day 1–2)

The focus during the first day or two post-surgery is on keeping your body hydrated with clear fluids. Sip small amounts throughout the day without putting pressure on your healing stomach. Examples include:

• Water.
• Clear broths (chicken or beef).
• Clear juices like apple, grape, or cranberry juice (avoid thicker juices like guava or mango).
• Herbal teas such as mint, chamomile, or anise.
• Sugar-free gelatin or popsicles.

2. Full Liquids (Weeks 1–2)

Starting from day 2 or 3 or as directed by your doctor, you can add thicker, nutrient-rich liquids while ensuring they are smooth and free of chunks. Focus on protein-rich options. Examples include:

• Low-fat or fat-free milk and yogurt.
• Protein shakes (as recommended by your doctor).
• Creamy, strained soups (e.g., tomato or zucchini soup).
• Liquids from the previous phase, such as broths and sugar-free juices.

3. Pureed Foods (Weeks 3–4)

In this phase, you can begin eating pureed or blended foods with a soft, paste-like consistency. Meals should be very small (4–6 tablespoons per meal, 3–6 times daily). Examples include:

• Lean minced meats, poultry, or fish.
• Soft scrambled eggs.
• Cooked grains (mashed or blended to a smooth consistency).
• Soft fruits (like bananas or stewed apples), and cooked vegetables (such as mashed zucchini or potatoes).
• Cottage cheese.

Note: Ensure fruits and vegetables are peeled and seed-free.

4. Soft Foods (Weeks 5–6)

With your doctor’s approval, you can now add soft foods that are small, tender, and easy to chew. These foods should be soft enough to be mashed with a fork. Examples include:

• Lean minced meats, poultry, or flaky fish.
• Eggs.
• Cooked grains.
• Rice.
• Canned or fresh soft fruits without seeds or peels.
• Cooked vegetables without peels.

5. Regular Diet (Ongoing)

Around six weeks post-surgery, you can gradually introduce natural, unprocessed foods into your diet while monitoring your body’s response.

Make sure to:

• Eat 3 small meals daily, with portions of 1–1.5 cups of food per meal.
• Stop eating before feeling completely full.
• Stick to healthy eating habits.
• Continue to drink at least 2 liters of fluids daily, avoiding fluids during meals.

Some foods may cause discomfort, nausea, or vomiting during this phase and should be avoided, including:

• Bread.
• Carbonated drinks.
• Raw vegetables.
• High-fiber cooked vegetables like celery, broccoli, corn, or cabbage.
• Tough meats or those with gristle.
• Red meat.
• Fried foods.
• Spicy or heavily seasoned foods.
• Nuts, seeds, and popcorn.

Risks of Non-Adherence to the Diet

Failing to follow the recommended post-surgery diet can lead to complications such as: (1)

• Dumping syndrome: Food moves too quickly into the small intestine, causing nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, and diarrhea.
• Dehydration: Due to inadequate fluid intake during meals.
• Constipation: From insufficient fiber, fluids, or physical activity.
• Blockage at the stomach opening: Food can obstruct the stomach outlet, leading to persistent nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Weight regain or failure to lose weight: Due to poor dietary choices or overeating.
  ‍

Take the first step toward a healthier life!
At the Bariatric Surgery Department at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital, we provide comprehensive and personalized care before and after gastric sleeve surgery. Our team delivers the best results and supports you every step of the way. Book your appointment now with our expert doctors!

References

1. Mayo Clinic - Gastric bypass diet: What to eat after the surgery‍
2. NHS - Dietary advice following a sleeve gastrectomy