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Lap Band Nutrition

For many people the word "diet" brings to mind suffering and failure, so we will not use it. We will focus on good nutrition and healthy eating habits instead. The following rules will help you succeed during your weight loss journey with the Lap Band:

The 5 Rules of LAP BAND Nutrition

1. Eat three times a day. This is what every body needs.
2. Eat mostly solid foods. The Lap Band does not restrict liquids.
3. Chew thoroughly. If you don't, you will not reach the sensation of fullness and you run the risk of having food get stuck at the point where the LAP BAND restricts the stomach volume.
4. Do not drink liquids with your meals. Doing so will cause the food to be washed through the LAP BAND quickly and defeat the purpose of the LAP BAND...to restrict!
5. Avoid high calorie liquids. While juices and other calorie containing liquids are fine for thin people, they can sabotage the weight loss process in heavy people.

By following these 5 simple rules you WILL succeed with the Lap Band!

Nutrition for the First Month after LAP BAND  surgery

• The first week after surgery: you will de consuming clear liquids and by week's end some juices.
• The second week: you can add cream broths and soups.
• The third week: hunger may be mild to moderate, so adding liquid protein (shakes) will help diminish this.
• The fourth week and beyond: Once the "liquid phase" is complete, we want you to eat only solid foods. From this moment on, each of the 5 Rules of LAP BAND nutrition described at the top of this page apply to your food choices.

If you find that food does not go down without getting stuck, there is a good chance you are not chewing thoroughly or you are eating too fast. You will get the hang of it with practice. The correct way of eating with the LAP BAND In place will become second nature. You will eat less and reach fullness fast!

Eating and Living with the Lap Band

The goal after LAP BAND surgery is that you will eat about a third of the amount of food that you did before having the procedure. Always try to choose good quality foods.

The LAP BAND decides the quantity, you decide the quality.

We want you to enjoy food and live life to the fullest by reaching our goal weight and staying there. Remember, you are not alone in this weight loss process. The Bradenton Surgical Group staff is behind you 100% of the way. We have a nutritionist to help you make wise food choices and a team of professionals that will be with you every step of the way during your LAP BAND weight loss journey!