Eating high-quality, nutrient dense foods is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for individuals who have undergone a bariatric procedure, such as the Lap-Band® Weight-Loss Program. Once you have the Lap-Band in place, you will not be able to consume as much as you could previously. In order to get all the nutrients you need in a day, you will need to focus on consuming power foods that are high in necessary nutrients, like fiber, protein, calcium, and vitamins. Not only will power foods make you feel good, they will fill you up, they will help keep you healthy, and they can help prevent certain diseases. On the contrary, low-quality foods that are high in sugar, fat, and calories can cause you to crash and they offer little, if any, nutritional value. Because you can only eat a small amount, it is crucial that you do not fill up with low-quality foods.
Check out our list of power foods to eat after bariatric surgery.
Water
Hydration is absolutely crucial after bariatric surgery. Not only will water help keep you full and sated, it may aid in weight loss efforts. Sugary, carbonated beverages may irritate your stomach after bariatric surgery, and over-consumption can lead to weight gain, so stick to water.
Salmon
Not only is salmon delicious and satisfying, it’s good for you. You’ll get plenty of protein, healthy fats, and omega-3 fatty acids when you add salmon to your diet. Bonus: omega-3 fatty acids may play a positive role in reducing obesity. If salmon isn’t your favorite, try tuna or lean meat like chicken.
Cottage cheese
Cottage cheese is a great source of calcium and protein, and it’s also low in fat. Cottage cheese is an especially great option if you’re still recovering from bariatric surgery and are not yet able to consume solid foods. It makes for a great breakfast or served alongside fruit as a light lunch.
Berries
Fruit has gotten a bad rap as of late due to its sugar content (despite those sugars being natural), so it’s best to enjoy fruit in moderation. If you’re craving some sweet, delicious fruit, a handful of berries will give you the nutrients you need, like antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C, and more. Studies show that they can help lower cholesterol, improve blood sugar, fight inflammation, and even protect against some types of cancer.
Nuts
While nuts can get a bad reputation for being relatively high in fat and calories, they are a great power food when consumed in moderation. If you need to reach for a snack during the day, a small handful of nuts is a great option and will provide you with some protein and fiber to tide you over until your next meal. If you’re missing that crunch you used to get from potato chips, sprinkle some nuts on your salad or your morning yogurt.
Avocados
There’s something to be said for all those avocado toast lovers out there! The fruit is loaded with good-for-you nutrients like fiber, potassium, and healthy fats. They’re incredibly versatile, too. You can toss them on a salad, blend them in with sauces to get an extra nutrient kick, or eat them on their own with your favorite seasoning.
Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach and kale make a great side on any plate because they’re low in calories but loaded with vitamins and minerals. Plus, you can easily dress them up with homemade dressings, nuts, more veggies, or fruit.
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