When other weight loss methods have failed, LAP BAND gastric surgery can produce remarkable results. This procedure helps morbidly obese patients lose weight by limiting food intake, reducing appetite, and slowing digestion. However, patients who have had LAP BAND gastric surgery must make substantial modifications in their eating habits if they wish to reach their weight loss goals. After surgery, you must limit the amount of fat in your diet. You should have no more than three to four teaspoons of margarine, butter, or oil per day. Low-fat salad dressing and mayonnaise are acceptable when consumed in moderation. High-fat foods such as chocolate, chips, pies, and pastries should be avoided.
Patients who have had LAP BAND gastric surgery need to consume plenty of protein to keep their energy levels high. You should have one to two ounces of meat, fish, or poultry each day. Grilling, steaming, microwaving, and boiling are healthy ways to prepare low fat meals. If you wish, one egg may be used for your daily protein serving.
After you have had LAP BAND gastric surgery, you must also be careful to choose liquids that are low in calories. The fluids you drink now simply run through the narrow outlet created by the gastric band. If you regularly consume regular soft drinks, fruit juices, milkshakes, or other drinks that are high in calories, it will be very difficult to reach your weight loss goals. It is not necessary to completely eliminate alcohol from your diet, but alcoholic drinks should also be consumed in moderation. Also, drinking six to eight glasses of water each day will help reduce the risk of constipation.
