If you are wondering how to start a weight loss meal plan, our bariatric dietitian can help. Our licensed dietitian can explain the recommended dietary changes that must take place after weight loss surgery. Good nutrition is a must while losing weight. Our weight loss nutritionist will show you a sample meal plan and point out the benefits of following a medically supervised diet to reach your weight loss goal.
Understanding the Bariatric Weight Loss Meal Plan
Even if you need to lose weight, you still can have nutritional deficiencies. The latest findings show that 55 percent to 80 percent of those who are morbidly obese likely have a vitamin D deficiency, and nearly 50 percent of patients seeking bariatric surgery have an iron deficiency. Our licensed dietitian has a wealth of knowledge and experience in understanding the types of bariatric surgeries and making recommendations for positive dietary changes after weight loss surgery. For instance, our dietitian will review the required vitamin and mineral supplements you will need to stay healthy. We will explain more about how to avoid postsurgical problems associated with your diet including:
- Anorexia
- Constipation
- Dehydration
- Dumping syndrome
- Flatulence
- Halitosis
- Lactose intolerance
- Nausea or vomiting
- Reactive hypoglycemia
Portion Control is Part of the Bariatric Diet Plan
After you have lost the excess weight you desire, you will move into the maintenance phase of your weight loss program. Your dietitian plays a key role in how successful you will be with this plan. For example, your dietitian will explain an appropriate meal plate that consists of:
- One-half lean protein
- One-fourth vegetables
- One-fourth fruit or whole grain starch
While your daily caloric intake may have been quite low initially, this will increase for maintenance, based on your doctor’s specific recommendation for your personal needs. Our bariatric dietitian will help you learn to plan your food and meals, with enough lean protein to keep you full and then adding small amounts of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and fats.
Sources
Lippincott Nursing Center: Bariatric Surgery: An Overview for Dietetics Professionals.