Why do pre and post-op diets differ so much?

[MindiJean 93]

My friend in scheduled for the Sleeve two weeks from today. Mine is scheduled for November 20. Our suggested diets are very different.

She has started Protein Shakes, 1 to 3 a day.

My surgeon/Nut doesn't like using Protein shakes at all.

She will be on a liquid only diet for two to four weeks out.

My diet calls for pureed foods on day two.

Her diet says she can eat pork and beef, six weeks out.

My diet calls for no beef or pork until at least six MONTHS out.

I had someone else, who had the surgery a few months ago, suggest to me that I have a bad nutritionist and to not follow what she said.

Thoughts?

[Caribe 28]

Well my surgery is on the 23rd (7days woo hoo) I saw a nutritionist for the first time yesterday. She put me on a 1200 cal diet per day and suggested replacement of one meal with a Protein Shake. But said that as long as I keep my carbs low and stay at a 1200 Cal diet I would be fine. As for post op 1-2 weeks liquids 1-2 week puree 1-2 weeks and after 4 weeks food as tolerated but still keeping carbs at 0 to minimal.

[ElginChris 87]

Mindi,

You will find there are a lot of different pre and post op plans out there. I dont think any of them are more "wrong" or "right" than any other but the plan you get from your surgeon or Nut are what they feel is best and I would stick with it.

I figure they are more experienced and have some historical data to back it up. Plus I want my surgery to be the safest and most successful possible..

[7 Bites_Jen 479]

It does sound a little restrictive, but there is always a reason. Is the nutritionist working directly with your doctor? If not, I would come right out and ask your doc on your next appointment what he thinks about it.

My pre-sugery diet was two weeks of a packaged Protein shake (we bought through the doctor's office) and directly after was two weeks of full liquids then two weeks of soft foods.

Although I don't fully understand the restriction of beef and pork, I do know that leaner meats have more Protein, and will also speed up the weight loss, so that might have something to do with it. What about fruits/veggies? Are there restrictions on those as well?