Protein:

Protein is used in our bodies to repair and replace tissue. Most people need 70-100 g of protein per day. In order to reach your protein goal it is necessary to focus half your meal on protein and eat your protein first at meal times. If you are focusing on this long term then you should be able to reach your protein goal with your meals, but if needed, continue to use protein supplements to reach your daily protein needs.Sugars/Carbohydrates:Avoid simple carbohydrates or white sugar/starch, especially in liquid form. Simple refined sugars are found in candy, pastries, cake, pasta, white bread, flour, chips, pretzels, cookies, ice cream, chocolate, flavored coffee drinks, juices, and smoothies. Simple sugars, especially in liquid form, can lead to weight gain. Foods high in sugar should be avoided because of the high-calorie count and poor nutritional value. The good complex carbohydrates should be kept to approximately 15-30% of your diet to avoid weight gain and maximize nutrition. Complex carbohydrates include the following: whole grain bread, brown rice, oatmeal, vegetables, and fruit. Fruit should always be consumed in its whole form, never blenderized or juiced. No more than 15 grams of sugar per day.

Fats:

Avoid fried foods and foods that are high in saturated and trans-fat. Some fat is essential in your diet, but choosing healthy fats is important as well as monitoring the quantity. Become a label reader!

• Avoid fast foods
• Choose reduced fat dairy products
• Avoid desserts (high in fat and sugar), especially those that are prepackaged
• Choose lean meats (bacon and sausage are not lean)
• Decrease or avoid adding butter, gravy, mayonnaise, or dressings to foods
• Avoid “snack foods” such as potato chips, etc.
• Avocados, nuts, and seeds are examples of healthy fats, however, be careful of portion sizes. 1⁄4 cup of nuts or seeds is about 200 calories and 1 Hass avocado is apx. 250 calories.

Hydration:

Adequate hydration is necessary for optimal health. Frequently, we mistake thirst for hunger, especially those hunger pangs between meals. So, if you think you are hungry, consider drinking 8 oz of water and see if the hunger pangs subside. Your fluids needs may vary if you are on a fluid restriction. Be sure to ask your doctor.Continue to avoid empty calories that come in liquid form. No matter how small your new stomach is, liquids will pass through fairly quickly without giving you any satiety or satisfaction. These drinks will slow down weight loss and contribute to weight gain. Some examples of such fluids include:

• Juices
• Smoothies
• Sugar-sweetened beverages of any kind (including soft drinks, teas, lemonades, etc.)
• Many flavored coffee drinks including Frappuccinos and bottled coffees
• Sports drinks (including regular Gatorade, PowerAde, Vitamin Water, etc.)
• Alcohol

ALWAYS check the nutrition label on beverages before you purchase them. Something can be clear and still have a very high amount of sugar. Also, carbonation should continue to be avoided. Many carbonated beverages contain excess sugar and because of their effervescence, carbonated beverages pull excess air into the stomach pouch. This can cause stomach upset, nausea, and excess gas. There is a risk of damaging the stomach pouch if extreme nausea occurs after the operation.