A Focus on Protein with Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, NYU Weight Management Program Bariatric Surgeon

When patients undergo gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, they make a commitment to a new and healthy lifestyle. This safe and effective procedure for weight loss involves several dietary changes. In this third part of four articles, Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding shares recommendations on how to eat after gastric sleeve surgery.

Phase Three: Pureed and Soft Foods Diet

In the third diet phase after gastric sleeve surgery, you can now enjoy pureed and soft foods. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding recommends beginning the good habit of eating protein first as well as avoiding drinking while eating. Here are some tips for nutrient-rich meals during Phase Three:

• Aim to eat 40-50 grams of protein daily.
• Enjoy cooked pureed protein such as:
  • flakey, fork-mashed fish (tilapia, flounder).
  • Fork-mashed or blended tuna fish or egg salad combined with low-fat mayo
  • Silken tofu
  • Hummus
  • Blended/pureed chicken or beef
• To puree food, cut into small pieces (size of pencil erasers) before cooking. Drain fluid and set aside. Blend the food and liquid in a blender or food processor until applesauce consistency. Strain any lumps or larger pieces.
• You may use some mild spices to add flavor to food at this stage.
• Baby food is a perfect and easy option. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding recommends low-sugar and high protein choices like meat and chicken.
• Separate all drinking from meals by 30 minutes.

Recipes and Ideas for Healthy Food After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

One good way to be sure you are getting the proper nutrients is to prepare your meals from scratch. This can be a creative way to begin thinking about your new eating plan. You will also become vigilant in reading nutritional information on ingredients. After gastric sleeve surgery, it is important to watch for hidden sugars or added fats in so-called “health” foods. Try some simple recipes and you may feel inspired to do more of your own cooking.

• For breakfast, Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding says soft scrambled eggs are a good choice. Also consider:
  
  • 6 oz. yogurt
  • ½ cup cottage cheese
  • Oatmeal, such as farina
  • ½ cup of applesauce
  • Mashed banana mixed with 1 tablespoon yogurt

• Lunch and dinner options open up at this stage. Be sure to check with your doctor if you are unsure about eating a certain food after gastric sleeve surgery. Consider foods such as:
  • Burrito-less Burrito: Mix ½ cup refried beans with mild taco sauce or pureed salsa. Add 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese. Microwave one minute and top with tablespoon low-fat sour cream.
  • Shrimp “Salad”: Mix ¼-lb. cooked shrimp with ⅛ cup low-fat mayo in food processor. Add ½ scallion and pinch of Old Bay seasoning.
  • No-Noodle Lasagna: Mix ¼ cup part-skim ricotta cheese with ⅓ cup smooth marinara sauce. Add ¼ cup low fat mozzarella and sprinkle parmesan cheese on top. Microwave one minute.
  • Puree casseroles and tofu with mixed vegetables and a light sauce.

Important Reminders

Eating pureed and soft foods is a vital part of your diet after gastric sleeve surgery. Remember that your stomach can only hold a small amount of food at this time. It is important to stop eating as soon as you feel full. If you do not tolerate a new food, remove it from your diet. Speak to your doctor and try reintroducing it a week later. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding says to carefully plan your meals at this stage and your body will respond positively.

If you are interested in losing weight and would like to learn about gastric sleeve surgery, consult an expert like Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, NYU Weight Management Program bariatric surgeon. Visit the NYU Langone Weight Management Program for more information.