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Stay hydrated. That means 48 to 64 ounces of fluids a day. To drink that much you're going to have to sip, sip, and sip all day.
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No straws or gum. They both bring air into the pouch, which can be really uncomfortable.
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Don't eat and drink at the same time. Don't drink for 5 to 10 minutes before a meal and wait 30 minutes after eating.
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Use smaller utensils and plates to control portions.
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Use caution when introducing new foods. Introduce one new food at a time.
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Vary the foods you eat. Variety is important in meeting nutritional needs and keeping it interesting.
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Focus on nutrient-rich foods. Get the most nutritional bang for your calorie buck.
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Take small bites. Each bite should be about the size of a pencil eraser.
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Chew, chew, chew!
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Eat slowly. Take 20 to 30 minutes to finish a meal.
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Eat protein first. It will make you feel full longer.
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Avoid high-fat and fried foods.
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Avoid simple sugars. This includes candy, cookies, cake, and so on.
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Listen to your body and don't overeat. Learn to tell the difference between being full and being satisfied.
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Use a food diary. Keeping track of what you consume makes you more aware of what you're eating, and if you should have a problem, your surgeon and dietitian will want to know what you have been eating.
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Take your multivitamins/mineral supplements and any other supplements as directed by your surgeon.
