The postoperative diet begins immediately after having surgery while in still hospital. For the first two days, clear liquids are administered and no solid foods are permitted. It is important to keep hydrated in this period, so aim to drink the recommended 1.5 litres per day in small sips. 

Clear liquid diet

• Water (small sips)
• Sugar free fruit squash
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Hot Bovril or Marmite
• Strained Miso soup
• Sugar free ice lollies or ice cubes
• Tea including herbal teas
• Coffee
• Sports drinks
• fruit juices (smooth)

Full liquid diet 

After two days of drinking clear liquids, protein, vitamins and minerals are introduced into your diet to help your body repair and recover. You can continue drinking clear liquids with the introduction of milk and soup. Solid foods are still to be avoided at the full liquid stage.  Gastric Bypass and Gastric Sleeve patients should avoid drinking fruit juices and drinks which are high in sugar, or at least that juice is diluted with water.

• No added sugar fruit squash
• Fruit juices (smooth)
• Sugar free ice lollies or ice cubes
• Protein shakes
• Protein powders or milk powders
• Skimmed or semi skimmed milk
• Calcium-fortified soy milk
• Oat or coconut milks
• Sugar free jelly
• Pureed chicken or vegetable broth 
• Clear strained soup 
• Liquid smoothies (add milk or water for a loose consistency)
• Protein yogurts (add milk or water for a loose consistency)
• Protein milkshakes

Please seek and follow the specific guidelines from your bariatric team. Guidelines vary for individual patient needs and surgeries.