How will the consumption of fluids change following weight loss surgery?
Following weight loss surgery, fluids should no longer be consumed with food. Fluids should be consumed between meals, approximately 30 to 60 minutes before and after – as drinking fluids with meals may cause uncomfortable side effects by expanding the stomach pouch or forcing foods through the intestine at a more rapid rate resulting in Dumping Syndrome and/or vomiting. Fluids should consist of water, broth, or sugar-free beverages (e.g., Crystal Light®), sugar–free gelatin and popsicles (no fruit pieces), milk and soy milk. Caffeinated and carbonated beverages should be avoided. Caffeine is an appetite stimulant and a diuretic. It can also interfere with mineral absorption such as calcium. Carbonation can cause the stomach pouch to expand and result in discomfort. Alcohol is also discouraged as caloric intake is reduced following weight loss surgery and those contained in alcohol are considered “empty” calories. The calories consumed should be of the highest nutritional value possibl
