The Bariatric Diet Stage 2: Full Liquids & Puree Phase

The full liquids phase is the second stage of the bariatric diet progression. This phase typically lasts 1-2 weeks after surgery. The goal is to reintroduce thicker liquids and additional protein sources while still allowing the stomach and digestive system to continue healing.

Key Details About Full Liquids Phase 2:

Expanding Nutrition in the Bariatric Phase 2 Diet

While the clear liquid phase provides hydration, the full liquid phase allows you to boost your nutrition intake, especially protein. Getting adequate protein helps maintain muscle mass as you rapidly lose weight after bariatric surgery.

Protein is essential for preserving lean body mass, supporting your immune system, and keeping you feeling fuller longer. Full liquid or pureed foods like bariatric protein shakes, Greek yogurt, and ricotta cheese allow you to consume high-protein options that are gentle on your post-op digestive system.

In addition to protein, full liquids provide carbohydrates to help replenish depleted energy stores. Your body needs carbs to heal and function properly after bariatric surgery. The lactose sugar in milk and yogurt gives you an easy-to-digest carb source.

Allowed Full Liquids & Purees During Phase 2

Here are some common examples of allowed full liquids in the phase 2 diet:

• Protein shakes - Whey protein, plant-based protein, Greek yogurt protein shakes, and low sugar milk-based shakes. Look for at least 15-20g protein per serving.
• Skim or 1% milk - Provides protein, calcium, and other nutrients. Limit to 4-6 oz per serving.
• Sugar-free yogurt - Choose unsweetened Greek yogurt for more protein. Avoid yogurt with artificial sweeteners.
• Cottage cheese - Provides casein protein for sustained energy. Blend completely smooth with milk.
• Pureed soups - Cream-based or broth-based soups with all chunks pureed. Tomato, butternut squash, cauliflower, and broccoli soups work well.
• Vegetable purees - Well-cooked vegetables like carrots, peas, spinach, sweet potatoes pureed with broth, milk, or water to thin.
• Unsweetened applesauce - Provides pectin fiber. Choose single serving cups without added sugar.
• Sugar-free pudding - Look for pudding made with skim milk and artificial sweeteners.

Focus on getting sufficient protein at each meal to protect your muscle mass in the second phase of your bariatric food diet.

Read More: Here's our list of the Top 10 Meal Replacement Shakes for Weight Loss

Avoiding Solid Foods in Phase 2

It is vital to avoid all solid foods at this stage. Solids can get stuck in the newly created pouch or stoma and cause pain, nausea, vomiting, and damage to the surgical site. It is critical to allow the stomach and digestive tract to continue healing without having to break down and process solids.

Only consume liquids that can liquidize completely in a spoon. There should be no chewing required. Avoid any foods with crunchy, dry, or sticky textures that could get lodged. Also steer clear of tough, fibrous foods that are hard to break down.

Some specific examples of solid foods to avoid include:

• Meats, poultry, fish
• Grains like rice, quinoa, pasta
• Breads, cereals, granola
• Raw vegetables and salads
• Fruits like fresh apples, oranges
• Nuts, seeds
• Chips, crackers, pretzels
• Cookies, cakes, candies

Supplements for Bariatric Phase 2

Since you are avoiding nutrient-dense solid foods during this phase, your bariatric surgeon or dietitian may recommend certain vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Some common supplements prescribed in Phase 2 include:

• Multivitamins - Either a standard multivitamin or specific bariatric multivitamins which are higher in B vitamins, iron, and calcium.
• Calcium citrate - Important for bone health and nerve/muscle function. Recommended daily dose is 1200-1500mg. Bariatric Advantage makes a great bariatric friendly chewable calcium.
• Vitamin B12 - Essential for energy production and nerve function. Sublingual tablets or liquid drops are preferred for better absorption. Bariatric Advantage B12 chewables are a great source.
• Iron - Helps prevent anemia which is a common deficiency after bariatric surgery. Look for iron glycinate which is gentler on the stomach. Here's a great Celebrate brand chewable iron supplement
• Vitamin D - Needed for calcium absorption and bone health. Especially important if you cannot tolerate dairy products.

Tips for Phase 2 Full Liquid Success

• Avoid using straws - Straws can introduce too much air into your pouch and cause discomfort. Drink directly from a cup or spoon.
• Sip liquids slowly - Take small sips and pause frequently to avoid overfilling your pouch. Going too fast can lead to pain, nausea and vomiting.
• Choose unsweetened protein shakes and yogurts - Limit added sugars as you want to avoid dumping syndrome. Look for unsweetened or "zero sugar" varieties.
• Stay hydrated with clear fluids between meals - Water, broth, and other clear liquids will keep you hydrated without filling you up before meals. Dehydration can cause headaches, dizziness and constipation.
• Meet daily protein goals - Aim for 60-80g of high-quality protein from bariatric-friendly protein shakes, yogurt, milk and other allowed foods. Protein preserves muscle and aids healing.
• Take supplements consistently - Set reminders to take your bariatric vitamins and minerals each day to prevent deficiencies.
• Communicate with your dietitian - Keep your bariatric team updated on any challenges, side effects, or concerns. They can provide support and advice.

With some creativity and commitment to following your diet, the full liquid phase will set you up to progress to richer textures and succeed in your weight loss journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Further Reading

For those who have undergone bariatric surgery and are looking for a structured meal plan, we recommend checking out this 7-Day Sample Bariatric Meal Plan. Authored by Dr. Kevin Huffman, this guide provides a detailed 7-day meal plan designed to meet the nutritional needs of bariatric patients. It's an excellent resource for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet post-surgery.

Writer: Carrie H. Carrie is a dedicated health and nutrition writer with a strong background in medical and scientific research. She is driven by a passion for helping others lead healthier lives, diving into the latest scientific research. Combining evidence-based knowledge with practical advice, Carrie strives to provide accurate and valuable information on health, nutrition, and wellness. Her ultimate aim is to empower readers, enabling them to make informed choices about their well-being.

Reviewed By: Dr. Kevin Huffman Dr. Kevin D. Huffman, D.O., is a leading board-certified bariatric physician with extensive expertise in treating obesity. He has trained countless healthcare providers and founded American Bariatric Consultants to develop protocols and training materials sought by medical societies, pharmaceutical companies, patients, and hospitals. Dr. Huffman's impact extends beyond patient care as he prepares physicians for board certification, expanding access to this vital treatment.