When you've decided that lap band surgery is the right choice for you and your weight loss goals, your doctor will put you on a fairly strict lap band pre-op diet to prepare your body for the surgery, help it to be more successful and aid in the ease of your recovery. While the diet may seem too strict, it is for your own good. The pre-op lap band diet lowers the fat content in your liver so that the surgery is easier for your doctor, and you see better success following the surgery.
Caloric Intake
In the month before your lap band surgery, your doctor will put you on a diet with a limited calorie intake of 800 to 1,200 calories per day. While this may sound restrictive, you can find a variety of foods that keep you full while still fulfilling your daily allowance of calories. Focus on fruits and vegetables that have fiber to keep you full. Salads, fruits with cottage cheese and lean meats like grilled chicken and fish will not only keep your caloric intake down, they'll also introduce you to a healthier way of eating that you'll need to adhere to after the surgery.
Liquid Diet
In the last week or two before surgery, you'll likely be asked to begin a liquid diet. This prepares your body for easier digestion, and further reduces the fat content in your liver to reduce the amount of bleeding you have during surgery and to help the surgery be more successful. Luckily, there are a variety of clear liquids, smoothies and protein shakes that will keep you satisfied. Keep in mind that the liquid diet will also be continued for up to two weeks following the surgery. It's a good time to start finding your favorite smoothie recipes to try before and after surgery.
Protein and Protein Supplements
Protein will be an important part of your pre-op lap band surgery diet. In fact, you'll need to consume 70 to 120 grams of protein each day, as directed by your surgeon. If you find yourself struggling to eat enough protein naturally, through nuts, lean meats and dairy products, a powdered protein supplement may be a good choice for you. You'll simply add a scoop of protein to your smoothies and shakes to increase the protein content. Low-calorie protein bars may also be a good choice to help you meet your pre-op protein intake requirements.
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