After you have Lap Band surgery there are some dietary restrictions that you will need to follow, and understanding these restrictions is essential for the fastest and safest weight loss possible. Some foods are avoided because they are high in sugar or fat, and others because they are low in nutrients and high in calories instead of being nutrient dense foods. In addition your portion size will be reduced greatly, because your stomach is much smaller once the band is in place. One restriction relates to any beverages which are carbonated, because the carbonation can can cause the pouch size to increase. This can cause pressure and discomfort, so any carbonated beverages should be avoided completely.
Foods which contain a lot of sugar should be avoided, because these are high in calories and have few nutrients. This includes jams, jellies, candy, honey, cake, and any other food that is sweet and contains large amounts of sugar. Foods high in fat should also be eliminated completely, or at least minimized as much as possible. This can include high fat foods that have a lot of sugar or none at all. Some common foods to avoid include ice cream, chocolate, pastries, potato chips, all fried foods, bacon, sausage, ham, and any sauces or soups that contain cream. Drinks and snacks which are high calorie are also a no no after you have Lap Band surgery.
Dietary restrictions also include foods which are high in starch or that contain a lot of white flour. This means that you should avoid white breads and rice, potatoes, pasta, and similar foods. Foods which are highly fibrous should also be avoided, because these foods may become lodged in the pouch and cause complications including infections. These foods include celery, sweet potatoes, corn, asparagus, most dried fruits, pineapples, and other foods of this type. There are also certain other foods which may pose a hazard of getting stuck, and these can include seeds, nuts, popcorn, and meats which are tough to digest including hamburger, steaks, and many cuts of pork.
Alcohol is one of the dietary restrictions after you have had Lap Band surgery. Alcoholic drinks contain empty calories, and also breaks down vitamins and other nutrients in your system. Most physicians will allow a small amount of alcohol on infrequent special occasions, but there are some considerations that you should remember if you do decide to have that infrequent drink. Choose what you drink carefully, and avoid beer and champagne as well as other carbonated choices. Because you can not drink within one hour of eating your meals this will cause you to consume alcohol on an empty stomach. This can have a big effect on your tolerance, and you should limit yourself to a single drink. Snacking is not recommended after Lap Band surgery, and you should limit yourself to three small meals each day only.