The majority of people focus on nurturing themselves post-surgery. However, building your immune system is something that must start months before the first incision is made.
When preparing for stomach surgery for weight loss, we need to think strategically. Our bodies are about to undergo a major transformation, and how we fuel ourselves beforehand has a direct impact on recovery, strength and success. Learn how you can set yourself up for the best possible results.
Why Nutrition Matters Before Bariatric Stomach Surgery for Weight Loss
Optimising your nutritional health before surgery helps reduce surgical risk, boosts immune function and ensures you recover faster. For many patients, it is also the start of a lifelong shift in how we think about food.
Your liver size is reduced by following a low-calorie, high-protein diet pre-op and is often necessary for safer laparoscopic access. Plus, starting good habits now builds momentum that carries us through the post-operative journey.
Key Nutrients To Focus On Before Surgery
In the lead-up to stomach surgery for weight loss, nourishing your body with the right nutrients can make a big difference in your recovery—here are the key ones to keep on your radar:
- Protein is our best friend before and after surgery. It helps preserve muscle mass during rapid weight loss and supports tissue repair.
- Iron, vitamin D and B12 are common deficiencies in people undergoing bariatric surgery. A balanced intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains supports digestion and provides much-needed fibre.
- Staying consistently hydrated helps to flush out toxins as our systems adjust.
By ensuring you get these key nutrients, you can cut calories and improve your health.
Foods To Avoid In The Lead-Up To Surgery
As we approach our surgery date, certain foods need to take a back seat. These include:
- High-fat and high-sugar items
- Alcohol
- Carbonated drinks
- Overly processed snacks
These foods and drinks will undermine your pre-op health regime and increase the risk of complications. Ideally, our digestive systems will have a clean slate so our new eating plan post-surgery feels like a continuation.
The Role Of Meal Planning And Mindful Eating
Learning to eat mindfully is a game-changer. Before surgery, we need to practise slowing down, chewing thoroughly and recognising when we are truly full. Habits like these are vital after surgery, especially as portion sizes shrink and new digestive sensitivities emerge.
Pre-planning meals helps you stay on track and reduce stress in the lead-up to surgery. Many patients also find journaling meals or working with a registered dietitian valuable during this stage.
Final Thoughts On Getting Your Body Ready
Nutrition is a powerful tool, one that helps us take control of our health journey long before we enter the operating theatre. By embracing positive dietary changes now, we are not just preparing our bodies for stomach surgery for weight loss—we are laying the foundation for a successful, sustainable transformation.
With Dr Harald Puhalla’s expert guidance and your commitment to nourishment, you can approach stomach surgery feeling stronger, more confident, and fully prepared. Contact us today to start nourishing your body correctly and experience greater success!