For the first 12 months after weight-loss surgery, your body is adapting to major digestive changes. Among the biggest challenges you face in the early months is nourishing your body. After surgery you’ll progress through these diet stages: clear liquids, like chicken or vegetable broth, full liquids, such as protein drinks and skim milk, soft/pureed foods and, finally, regular foods. While this process takes about four months total, the time between each stage is variable. Don’t be concerned about the pace of others—you and your surgeon should come up with the best plan for you. 

Immediately after any surgery, your energy level is usually low. Aim for at least two weeks off (three is even better), to adapt to your new lifestyle and ease back into your regular activity over the first two weeks. Listen to your body. Daily walking is the best way to be active, until you receive clearance from your surgeon for more intense activity. During this time you may also feel a loss of appetite, which is what I call the “honeymoon phase.” It can last for two weeks or as long as two years—it’s hard to say. Since hunger is “hardwired,” it will return at some point, but you’ll have much better control. 

Follow up regularly with your surgeon and discuss your physical health and sense of well being. Vitamins and minerals are now a daily “must-do,” and you need to listen to your body and for clues about how you’re doing. Each week you should feel more energized and be able to tolerate a greater variety of foods. If your weight loss isn’t steady and consistent, a call to your surgeon is in order. The Surgeon: Reducing Your Medications?