Post Operative Diet & Excercise Guideline
Diet After Bariatric Surgery
After bariatric surgery, you will need to follow a specific nutritional plan for optimal results and health:
- High Protein — Focus on lean protein sources
- Low Carbohydrate — Limit starches and sugars
- Low Fat — Choose healthy fats in moderation
- Bariatric Multivitamins — Required for life after surgery with regular vitamin level checks
Items to Avoid
- Refined sugars
- Liquid calories (sugary drinks)
- Alcohol in excess
- Caffeine
- NSAIDs/Aspirin
- Tobacco and smoking of any kind
Warning: Dumping Syndrome
Failure to follow the recommended diet can result in dumping syndrome. This occurs when food arrives in your small intestine more quickly than normal. Symptoms include:
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sweating
- Lightheadedness
Exercise After Bariatric Surgery
Exercise and lifestyle change are key parts of your long-term success. Start with what you know and build over time.
Post-Surgery Walking Program
Our comprehensive 24-week walking program takes you from your first steps after surgery to completing a 5K walk.
- Safe, progressive overload approach
- Clear weekly instructions
- Achievable milestones to track progress
- Designed specifically for bariatric patients
Post-Surgery Exercise Timeline
- Immediately after surgery: Walking and climbing stairs allowed
- At 2 weeks: Unrestricted cardiovascular activity permitted
- At 4 weeks: Core engagement and lifting more than 20 pounds allowed
- After 4 weeks: Resistance training with bands or weights can help reduce excess skin
Exercise Goal
After 2 weeks, your goal should be 30–45 minutes of activity daily, 5 times per week.
Exercise Options
Consider different avenues to stay active:
Consistency is the most important factor in your success.
Post-Surgery Diet
Easy Protein Sources
Discover high-quality protein options that work well with your new digestive system.
Resource
Nutrition & Exercise
Learn how to fuel your workouts and optimize both nutrition and exercise for best results.
Guide
24-Week Walking Plan
Progressive walking program designed specifically for bariatric patients from surgery to 5K.
Program
Home-Based Resistance Training
Safe home-based strength training exercises to build muscle and reduce excess skin after weight loss.
Program
Gym-Based Resistance Training
Safe gym-based strength training exercises to build muscle and reduce excess skin after weight loss.
Program
BariNation
Online membership and community support including helpful resources and podcast.
Community