Many patients believe before weight loss surgery that they won't be able to eat many of the foods they are accustomed to. While food choices need to improve there really isn't a whole lot of food that patients can not physically eat. Here are 12 problematic foods after weight loss surgery that are common among patients.
Every patient is different. In 10 years I have seen patients who could tolerate all foods quickly after their surgery and then patients who years later still had to avoid a select few foods. The first year is really when most patients have difficulty tolerating a number of foods. Usually, after a year tolerance improves for many patients and their eating becomes more normal and more inclusive.
I have put together a list of 12 foods/food groups that give patients that are the most problematic. By problematic I generally mean intolerance. What does intolerance mean? Intolerance, in general, is a physical reaction or discomfort that patients experience when they eat these foods.
Signs and symptoms of intolerance:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
While most of the foods/food groups on this list may cause some of the above symptoms others are there because they affect patients progress by adding extra and unnecessary calories.
12 Problematic Foods After Weight Loss Surgery:
- Bread: doughy bread like rolls and sliced sandwich bread are sticky and too heavy for the small stomach.
- Pasta: like bread, pasta is sticky and can fill up a small pouch quickly.
- Rice: regardless of whether the rice is white or brown all rice causes the same issues as pasta and bread.
- Oatmeal: in early stages, oatmeal can be heavy and very filling. I generally recommend waiting until about 5-6 weeks to try oatmeal.
- Fruits and vegetables with tough skins: fruit/veggies like apples and cucumbers have hard, very fibrous outer skins. These fibrous skins should normally be part of a healthy diet, but bariatric patients can have difficulty tolerating anything that is difficult to completely chew.
- Tough meats: these foods are difficult to chew sufficiently after surgery.
- steak and other red meat
- breast meat of chicken and turkey
- heavy fish like salmon
- Grilled meats: anytime you grill food you are making the outer surface harder, which may result in patients having difficulty chewing.
- Desserts: high fat, high sugar foods not only add extra calories they may also lead to dumping syndrome in certain patients.
- Sugary Drinks: like desserts, sugary drinks provide unnecessary calories that may hinder weight loss or result in weight gain. Again, dumping syndrome may occur in certain patients.
- Alcohol: surgeons often have different recommendations regarding alcohol consumption. In gastric bypass patients, there is a higher risk of ulcer development in patients who consume alcohol. Regardless though for any patients alcohol provides empty calories.
- High-fat foods: some patients will experience dumping from consuming higher fat foods such as fried food, desserts, butter, and high-fat dairy products. Fat provides twice the amount of calories per gram than that of carbohydrates and protein, so consuming high-fat foods on a regular basis will result in the consumption of excess calories that will affect weight loss long-term.
- Snack food: "junk" food like chips, cookies, candy etc are really easy to eat after surgery. Any food that crumbles or melts will not take about a lot of space in your stomach. Many patients think that portion sizes of all foods will be decreased after weight loss surgery, however, the density of the food is what will determine the portion size and level of satiety. So, a patient can consume large amounts of these foods. Like many of the foods mentioned already, snack foods will cause an increased intake of calories that will result in slower weight loss, weight plateaus, or weight gain.
Weight loss surgery patients have limited real estate. There is only so much food you can fit into your smaller stomach. Choose wisely!!
Other information you may be interested in:
Suzanne says
I cant eat any animal protein...or fat...very little fat of any kind..no sugar...no wheat....sometimes broccoli..bothers me
Pat says
My daughter gets sick eating everything except fruits and some veggies. Meats hurt her and she cannot drink any protein drinks either. She’s malnourished, after 4 months and has lost 82 lbs with not able to eat or drink much. Her dietitian, keeps saying keep trying. I’m scared for her health. She’s weak and works daily and can’t lift 10 lbs or walk up a few steps without trouble.
Tanya Haithcock says
Pat,
I had my surgery in 2019 and I am the same as your daughter. I can't eat meats and fat, course vegetables, sugary foods or bread.
What I can do is eat lentils cooked well with spices to flavor because that are, well, Lentils! I can have my vegetables cooked to soft texture and Quinoa. I cook things like apples, sweet potato and add cinnamon and a touch of AGrade 100%Pure Maple Syrup. I stay away from white sugar. I can't do smoothies either but I can put the fruit in a pot and add a little water and cook to make a soft fruit salad. I add a few pounded up walnuts or sunflower seeds. I can, however, drink Fairlife 1% Milk and Premier Chocolate Shake for protein also. I kinda follow a Modified Mediterranean Diet sans meat. I can do cheese. I also do Yoga and it seems to "unwind" my stomach and relax it. I also meditate. I don't eat with distractions like the TV. I noticed my food doesn't digest well in excitement. I have to be calm and mindful...just in the moment.
My name is Tanya,
I hope something from my way of eating may give you some ideas to kraft a better diet for yourself.
"Go ahead! Breathe."
Elizabeth timmer says
I cant eat any meat it gives me that stuck feeling which i have been diagnosed with esophageal dysmotility...so i have to stick to soft grind up foods.....
Annette Cadieux Walker says
I'm over 15 yrs post gastric bypass and now have a lovely side effect called gastroparesis. I've had quick unwanted weightloss. No one ever talks about this side effect.
Jennifer Pullman says
Gastroparesis is not something I have seen in practice happening to gastric bypass patients. That's a new one! Sorry to hear you are experiencing this. I hope you can connect with a good GI doctor and maybe a dietitian in your area to help you navigate eating.
Suzanne says
I lost so much weight that I was anorexic and malnourished it’s hard for me to get my protein in
Darlene Doss says
Wondering if anyone else is experiencing “complete” food intolerance? I can’t stand any kind of food at all and I am 12 years post-op. I hate ALL foods and it repulses me to have to eat. I also have severe stomach acid and have to take prescription medication which I generally build an immunity to; therefore, I have to switch back and forth on different acid blockers about every 3 months. I currently weigh 105lbs. All colonoscopies and scopes show normal. Have no idea what’s wrong.
EC DC says
Looking at this list.....I WON'T be able to eat any of the stuff I'm used to anymore.
Jennifer Pullman says
You may eventually be able to eat some of the food on the list, but not for a while.
Glenn says
I had stomach cancer last year and had my stomach removed, so i am having essentially the same issues as bariatric weight loss patients....how long does it take for your body to be able to digest foods prior if you have -0- stomach ?
Jennifer Pullman says
Hi Glenn. Gastric bypass patients still have their entire stomach. A small pouch is made that collects food and is connected to their small intestine. The remainder of their stomach still produces digestive enzymes. Their digestion is delayed, but normal. You both can experience dumping of course. As for as your digestion I don't know the answer as I have never worked with patients who had a total gastrectomy. I would reach out to your doctor.
Esther l Murphy says
That is the whole point of this Surgery.This is Not a QUICK fix like everyone thinks.It is a lifestyle change.It is a Huge Blessing,Do NOT through it away.
Des says
Absolutely!
Miranda says
I'm 10 mo out from bypass. I eat pasta, bread, meat, just about anything with no issues. I'm also down 115 lbs so far. Pasta I can eat a lot more of than meat or other protein. It's true about snack foods. Us bariatric patients can eat close to normal portions of these foods. Bariatric surgery is about moderation. If I was going to just do a low carb diet avoiding carbs then I wouldn't have needed surgery.
Jennifer Pullman says
Hi Miranda! It's great that you are able to eat anything only 10 months out. As a dietitian over the past 12 years, I would say this is pretty unusual. I will say that by one year most patients can tolerate pretty much anything. That being said there are still patients who can not tolerate pasta, bread, and rice even years later.
C. Goodwin says
If I could only eat a small piece of meat and maybe steamed broccoli. It would be heaven after 13 yrs. Lap band post op. If I do it’s hung and coming up. Think I’m to tight. Any suggestions other than some reduction in fluid
Jennifer Pullman says
If you can not tolerate small pieces of food you should see your doctor.
Esther l Murphy says
Eating things like that Will just put the weight back on.Good luck with that.What was the point of going through the process and not changing your lifestyle.?? The surgery is very expensive,the time ,money and effort other people put into it...and where they were before SHOULD make them Want to change.
Heather says
What do you care? The surgery is a personal decision. If that person can eat those things moderately with the surgery whereas they couldn’t before than good for them.
Jennifer Pullman says
This site is for educational purposes only. I share information and knowledge that I have obtained over the past 14 years as a bariatric dietitan. I am only here to give patients information. What they do with the information is up to them. These are common foods that give many patients problems. There are patients that are likely getting sick and wondering why. This article serves to give them an idea as to WHY! If someone continues to eat food that makes them sick or makes them gain weight that's on them. Surgery is a personal decision and food choices are also personal. I care because I want patients to be successful. Unfortunatley moderation is not a word that many people understand.
Lorrie says
Amen
Monie says
Hi, did you trouble eating in the first month? I'm only 1 month out and I'm afraid to eat anything.
Jennifer Pullman says
Hi Monie. I did not have surgery. I am a bariatric dietitian. I will tell you that every patient is different and I have had patients struggle in the beginning. Make sure you are hydrated and getting in your shakes. If you continue to have issues talk to your surgeon.
Cindy Geilmann’ says
Shakes?
Jennifer Pullman says
What is your question about shakes Cindy?
Christine Atkins says
Did you have trouble for awhile with beef
Jennifer Pullman says
Issues tolerating beef isn't unusual. Beef is denser and tougher than other proteins.
Lorrie says
I find if I eat meat that I am satisfied longer ... I do eat apple sauce with it . So as to help with constipation it seems to work but I get a stuck feeling for sure with the steak and then the applesauce makes it have pain sometimes so I have to lay back in my chair. Is this normal or should I be avoiding this food it seems as though I’m losing weight when I eat meat though?
Jennifer Pullman says
Sounds like you're full. Definitely ask your surgeon, but sounds like the feeling most people get with their stomach is full (especially if the pain goes away if you lean back - you make more room). Protein foods like meat are heavier and denser. Digestion of these foods is slower making your feel more satisfied.
Meg says
I am nearly 3 months post op and i can't seem to tolerate anything with high protein content. I can eat salad and vegetables quite well and many fruits. I can manage protein from dairy in small doses like 25g grated cheese. I've tried protein waters, protein shakes, pulses and beans, seeds and nuts, meat, fish, eggs, protein yoghurts or dairy products in general high in protein. Literally only need to eat a few teaspoons of any of the above and i get severe pains followed by hiccups and then violent vomiting. Really really struggling. Being prescribed protein jelly but fear this will also not go down well. It's like my new stomach simply can't tolerate protein now?
Jennifer Pullman says
I would continue to keep in touch with your surgeon and dietitian.
Monica Alvarez says
I am about 3 weeks out, sleeved May 13th. I can not tolerate tuna, eggs no matter how they are cooked, cottage cheese, refried beans, chicken, or salmon.
I had 3 ounce of soup from Panera tonight and it contained wild rice and it went down pretty well but I was immediately full.
Jennifer Pullman says
You are immediately full because that rice was a sticky ball filling up your small stomach. Everyone progresses differently. The most important task is to get sufficient protein, so if you can not tolerate meat or dairy (cottage cheese), make sure you are drinking protein shakes. We don't want you to "fill up" on food that won't provide the right nutrients for the stage you are in.
Maria C. Angione says
I am considering bypass surgery. My main concern is giving up pasta and bread. I am Italian and we make homemade pasta. This is a delicious part of life and I don’t think I can give it up completely. Could I have a small amount of pasta and grainy bread after surgery???
Jennifer Pullman says
I can't really say. Everyone is different. Some patients can handle a little bit, some more, some not at all.
Wendy says
Hello! I’m about 9 years out. Lost weight like mad. But have gained at least 50lbs back. I could eat anything except high sugar anything!
I started a diet that said I could have long grain wild rice. Well!!! Let me tell you! What a job I had the other night trying to get rid of it. So 2 nights later I’m very sore. I will not try this type of rice again. I’ve been pretty lucky that I could tolerate most rice I suppose when it’s with vegetables. Long grain wild rice and quinoa isn’t going to be in my diet. Oh but since I did all that work getting rid of the rice in my pouch I’m not hungry these past 2 days. I’m liking the reset for awhile. Just want to get back to normal. Thanks for the read.
Lynette says
I am 10 years out of the sleeve procedure….I recently have been suffering pain, nausea, horrible belching, thick-bubbly, frothy saliva, and/or vomiting….this after pasta, rice or bread…..not always but enough…..I was concerned that I had a blockage in my esophagus and have an appointment with my PCP to further investigate. I have hope this is because of the starches….not a growth blockage or worse!
Donna says
I’m just short of 2 years post bypass and still cannot eat chicken or even eggs without getting nauseous. Steak beef and pork are fine as is any kind of fish, just have to avoid chicken and eggs and sadly eggs are one of my favorite protein sources.
Megan says
I’m almost a month out and I can’t stomach eggs or chicken. I know it’s too early to be eating meat like that but I’ve been cheating. I haven’t had pasta yet but I miss it and I can’t wait til I’m able to eat it. I’ve hit a weight plateau though and I think it’s because all of the cheating with solid foods I’ve been doing.
Jennifer Pullman says
Everyone hits a plateau from time to time, but not following surgery directions isn't going to get you the results you are seeking.
Cindy Geilmann says
Hi, I’m new. Cindy Geilmann. 3 months out, 59 lbs down. I love reading these comments, They help me!
When I’m not constipated or nauseated, I feel great! 🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼
Jose says
Constipation has become an issue for me. I stay well hydrated and use stool softners every other day. But to no avail. Don’t know what else to do.
Deborah says
Milk of magnesia helps me.
Sandra says
I’m working on week 4 post-op and I’ve had the worst time of it! I have had really good days, then really bad days where I have stomach cramping, bloating and diarrhea and about 4 days (not consecutive) of vomiting. I am barely eating anything. I read that the cramps, bloating and diarrhea could be that I’m now lactose intolerant since I had the sleeve. I just want to feel normal again and be able to actually enjoy sitting down and having a meal with my family...even if I can’t eat a lot! I’m trying to be patient with the process because I know it takes at least 6 weeks after surgery to feel better! At week 4 I’m still on hello, popsicles and tomato soup...that’s about all I can tolerate!
Jennifer Pullman says
Have you stopped eating or drinking dairy to see if you feel better?
Shatel says
Hi I'm 3 years out and I have lost about half of my initial pre-surgery weight. I have been holding so far but the struggle is real, since I loosed up on my carb and sugar restrictions, lol. I went from no junk food, and sugar, and very low carbs, too selective carbs and sugar. I definitely sub carbs for veggies and I rarely eat beef, and I opt for sugar-free. It definitely required a life style change and I think it's manageable. I just have too reach for the trail mix heavy on the nuts instead of 2 kids size bag of chips, lol. I have noticed I can eat more snacks then solid food, like meat, but it also means I can eat more salad too, lol. I will keep up the battle thanks for the info. QUESTIONS: Would you happen to know how long it takes beef to digest after the gastric bypass rny? I rarely eat beef and I was trying to find out because I had a little. I also wanted to know if waiting 30mins between eating and drinking good enough, because that's my general rule or do I me to wait longer?
Jennifer Pullman says
I don't really know how long it takes for beef to digest. Beef is a heavy meat and many patients have issues with it. As far as drinking the suggestion is 30-45 minutes, but I know patients who have waiting longer. You need to judge how you feel.
Leaira says
Hello, I am 7 months post opt and down 105 lbs. I mostly eat chicken, and I find that the first bite or two causes a lot of pain in my chest, back and stomach for a few seconds up to a minute and then goes away. The third and fourth bites no problem. Do you know why this is? Also, I have noticed there are some days were I can eat my 3 meals with no issues all day and other days where each bit is painful. Why?
Jennifer Pullman says
I don't know why, but it's not unusual. Possibly the first bite was too big or swallowed too fast. Maybe your muscles are tight? I had several patients who could not eat in the morning unless they drank something warm like tea. The warm liquid would help relax the muscles. I would of course talk to your surgeon about it as well. On the days you have issues start to keep a journal of what was going on that day. Stress and tension cause muscles to be tight including the muscles involved in digestion.
Irvin Ward says
Hello, I'm 3 weeks post OP, just leaving family doctors office visit. My Dr. Is happy to see my 30 lbs loss from 420 to 390. Although after surgery was instructed ,I had to stop all pudding and jello snack packs, they felt good going down then immediately caused discomfort. What I miss the most is my wife's sweet tea and how soon could I settle for a bowl of froot loop cereal with bananas?
Patricia Polk says
I am 19 years post op. Everything on this list is true for me. All of these years later I still get sick so often that I find myself wanting to eat only cookies, crackers and candy because as long as the sugar content is not too high these are the most convenient "safe foods" to keep from getting sick.
Gigi says
Hello Oct.5th was my surgery. I find myself barely eating. I drink lots of liquids. Especially water. I can barely stomach anything. I can eat chicken as long as its shredded. Eggs sometimes. There are times I realize I haven't eaten all day or for days. I'm just not hungry. I have lost 60lbs already. I can't wait to be able to eat somewhat normal food. Than the small snacking of cheese, pickles, ham etc. But I love salads. The only food I can think of and not get sick
Jennifer Pullman says
Definitely get your protein in!
Sig Jewett says
I am 8 weeks post surgery. My question is do we ever get our taste buds back? Nothing tastes good at all. Also once we can start eating regular food does our weight go up and down?
Jennifer Pullman says
The taste issue usually resolves at some point within the first year for most patients. As far as weight, when your calories increase your weight loss will change, but not stop forever. Weight loss is never steady and will change up and down or even stop temporarily as your body adjusts.
Sherry says
I almost 3 years after and the past few months I feel sick after about 3 or 4 bites of steak or any fried foods. is this normal?
Bob says
I'm 9 months post-op. Chicken, ground turkey, pretty much every other meat makes me violently ill. The only meats I can tolerate are ground beef, shrimp, and fish, and in the last few weeks even those have made me sick. I'm basically living on yogurt, granola, and protein shakes, and fighting the urge to graze or gorge on carbs every night. I'm so frustrated, discouraged, and disgusted that I want to scream, or cry. My surgeon and my dietician are basically saying, "Well, that's just how it is for you, I guess." I feel like I got sold a bill of goods, and if I could find someone to reverse this surgery, I would.