It is time to remove the word “diet” from your vocabulary, and focus on your journey to a healthier lifestyle through good nutrition and healthy eating habits.  Remember, the LAP-Band is a tool, and you still have to do your part!  The following guidelines will help you succeed during your journey to a healthier lifestyle. 

The 5 Recommendations for 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 (30 times to be safe). 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 30 minutes before or after your meal. 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 high calorie containing liquids are fine for thin people, they can limit the weight loss process.

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

Your first month’s nutritional journey:

• Week one after surgery: Clear liquids 
• Week two after surgery: Add cream broths and soups.
• Week three after surgery: Soft diet
• Week four and beyond: Now that the "liquid phase" is complete, you should eat solid foods. It is now time to begin following the 5 recommendations of LAP BAND nutrition.

Remember to chew your food thoroughly and pace yourself!  Otherwise, you may have difficulty with food getting stuck.  This journey to a healthier lifestyle comes with changes to your eating habits; portion size, type of foods.  The correct way of eating with the LAP BAND in place will become second nature. You will eat less and reach fullness faster!

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 your goal weight. Remember, you are not alone in this weight loss journey. The Carolina Center for Weight Loss Surgery Team 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 journey to a healthier life!