BARIATRIC DIETS – General Guidelines
- While drinking liquids sip slowly, do not gulp, do not use a straw.
- Use a spoon to help you sip your liquids slower.
- Use a small cup (i.e. mouth wash cups) to help you sip smaller amounts of liquids.
- Drinking with a straw will cause you to swallow air which can produce uncomfortable sensations in the chest and upper abdomen. You may feel a “bubble” like sensation in your chest.
- Avoid extreme temperatures (extreme hot or cold foods or liquids).
- “30-Minute Rule” – avoid drinking fluids for 30 minutes before or after eating solids or drinking protein shakes.
- “30-Second Rule” – chew each bite 30 times or for 30 seconds before swallowing.
- Always check your tolerance level when taking fluids or solids by mouth.
- Stop drinking or eating when you feel full. DO NOT force yourself to complete your meal or beverage.
- Avoid carbonated beverages.
- Avoid caffeinated beverages.
- Limit sugar, sugar substitutes are permitted (Refer to the list of “Sugar and Sugar Substitutes”).
- Recommend avoiding alcoholic beverages for 6 months.
- Do not skip meals, have 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch and dinner).
- Give yourself 30 – 45 minutes for each of your main meals.
- Avoid returning to your meal after a few hours.
- Avoid “grazing” or eating constantly throughout the day.
- Always remember to keep increasing physical activity as tolerated.
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