Fiber Types to Consume After Bariatric Surgery

If you\’re aiming to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, a high-fiber diet should be a key component of your plan.

High-fiber foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are not only low in calories, but the fiber they contain also slows digestion, allowing you to feel full for longer.

Because of its fiber content, an apple, for example, is more filling than apple juice. Furthermore, fiber-rich foods take longer to chew, giving you more time to realize you\’re satisfied with a lesser piece.

Other health benefits associated with a high-fiber diet include reduced blood cholesterol levels, better blood sugar control, and intestinal regularity.

 

Types of fiber

Only plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, contain dietary fiber. Isolated fiber that is added to foods is referred to as functional fiber.

 

Sources of fiber

As food manufacturers have recognized our need for more fiber diets, the number of food products on the market promoting extra fiber has increased dramatically in recent years. Fiber is currently present in a variety of foods, from yogurt to soups.

The most frequent functional fiber added to foods is inulin, which can be found in a food ingredient list. Keep in mind that foods that naturally contain fiber are the best sources of fiber because you\’ll get other nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals from the meal. Functional fiber hasn\’t been proven to provide the same health benefits as dietary fiber, and goods fortified with fiber are often over processed.

 

Adding fiber to your diet after weight-loss surgery

Due to the decreased portion sizes after bariatric surgery, it may not be easy to get enough fiber from the diet. Thus, a fiber supplement or foods with functional fiber may be advantageous. For every 1000 calories you consume, aim to consume 15 grams of fiber.

 

Add additional fiber to your diet by following these suggestions:

• Adding additional fiber a week or two at a time will help you become used to it. Bloating and gassiness might occur if you add fiber too rapidly.
• Rather than eating all of your fiber in one sitting, spread it out throughout the day.
• Instead of juice, eat whole fruits. Raspberries, pears, and figs are all high in fiber.
• Use beans and lentils as a fiber and protein source.
• Make all of your grain’s whole grains, and don\’t be afraid to experiment with different grains such as quinoa, brown rice, bulgar, and faro. Look for cereals that have at least 5 grams of fiber per serving, as well as bread and crackers that have at least 3 grams.

 

Talk to your bariatric surgeon for more tips on how to get enough fiber in your diet.