Nutrition Guidelines - Duodenal Switch Surgery

Biliary pancreatic diversion with duodenal switch or duodenal switch surgery is a bariatric surgical procedure that is recommended for obese patients with a body mass index of more than 35. The procedure helps patients attain remarkable weight loss results and reduce the risk of potentially life-threatening conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, heart diseases, type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and many more. The purpose of this surgical procedure is to reduce the amount of food intake and alter the way your body absorbs nutrients. It is important that post-surgery, you follow a strict diet plan and nutritional guidelines given by your doctor to maximize results from the surgery.

Here are some useful nutritional guidelines to follow for successful Duodenal Switch surgery.

Start on Low-Calorie Liquids

For the first few days after surgery, you will be on a clear liquid diet. Slowly, you will move from clear liquids to a full liquid diet. It is important to watch your calorie intake as it is the major goal of surgery. Low calorie liquids such as skim milk, broth, protein drinks, fat-free yogurt, and cream of wheat are allowed to keep your calorie intake within limit.

Avoid Taking Fluids with Meals

Once you are on a solid diet, it is important that you do not take fluids during meals to avoid overstuffing your stomach. Do not take any fluids 30 minutes before meals and 30 minutes after. Such a practice also helps you stay full for a longer time.

Chew Food Properly

It is important to chew your food properly to the consistency of toothpaste before swallowing. You need to chew food at least 20 to thirty times to avoid blockage of the passage of food and fluid through the pouch.

Increase Your Protein Intake

Proteins are essential for new muscle generation and as you will be on a restrictive diet, it is recommended to increase your protein intake. You should take at least 80 grams of protein each day. Make sure to eat the protein part of your meal first. You can also add protein powder to your food and try a protein drink in the morning to reach your daily goal of protein intake.

Take Your Vitamins

Not all vitamins are created equal. Patients who undergo bariatric surgery need bariatric-specific vitamins. These vitamins are essential to ensure that there are no short or long-term problems after surgery. Duodenal switch patients need bariatric vitamins that are higher in the fat soluble vitamins such as Vitamin A, D, E, and K, in addition to extra calcium.

Avoid Alcohol for at Least One Year Post Surgery

You need to avoid consuming alcohol for at least one year post-surgery. Alcohol contains an excess of calories and has very little nutritional value. If taken in excess, it may also cause ulcers. Taking communion wine, however, is okay after the surgery.

The Final Word

Duodenal switch surgery can offer remarkable weight loss results and help you prevent or manage obesity-related health conditions. If you are struggling with excess body weight and looking for advice on sustainable weight loss solutions such as duodenal switch procedure in and around Dallas, Texas, look no further than DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. Our team of weight loss specialists has extensive experience in helping patients attain long-term weight loss results through procedures such as gastric bypass surgery and duodenal switch. To talk to one of our weight loss doctors, call 469 620 0222. You can also email [email protected].