How to Reset Your Pouch?
Many people who undergo bariatric surgery are successful in losing a significant amount of weight. However, some people find that they eventually begin to regain weight, even after following their post-surgery diet plan closely. If you are one of these people, you may be wondering what a pouch reset exactly is, how to reset your pouch, and if a pouch reset really works.
1. What is a pouch reset?
A pouch reset is a way to decrease the size of your stomach after bariatric surgery. The pouch reset is meant to mimic the results of gastric bypass surgery- shrinking the stomach size and limiting how much food you can eat. The pouch reset is done by following a liquid diet for a time period, usually two to four weeks. During this time, you will only consume liquids or liquid-type foods. This will allow your stomach to shrink, get tighter, and reset itself. Once you have completed the liquid diet, you can begin reintroducing solid foods into your diet slowly and carefully.
2. Why do people need to reset their pouch after bariatric surgery?
Many people who have undergone bariatric surgery find themselves struggling with weight regain after a period of time. This is often due to the stomach stretching and becoming larger, allowing patients to eat more volume of food. To help patients get back on track with their weight loss goals, it is often recommended that they reset their pouch. This means eating a specific set of foods for a period of time in order to help the stomach shrink back down to its original size. Additionally, following pouch reset can help patients rebuild self-control, confidence, and healthy eating habits.
3. How to reset your pouch?
There are several steps you need to take in order to reset your pouch after bariatric surgery. The first step is to begin on Day 1 with clear liquids only. Drink plenty of fluids and ensure you're getting enough protein by drinking protein shakes. Then, slowly transition to pureed foods and eventually solid foods. It's important to start with low carbohydrate high protein foods as this will help reduce the size of your stomach pouch. Try low carbohydrate shakes, soups, and other soft foods in the beginning stages.
4. What to eat during a pouch reset
The goal during a pouch reset is to consume mainly high-protein, low-carbohydrate and moderate-fat foods. Foods that are mostly liquids can be tolerated in the early stages of a pouch reset, followed by pureed foods, and finally solid foods. It's important to focus on incorporating protein into every meal and snack. This will help maintain muscle mass and promote healthy weight loss. Some great sources of protein include chicken, fish, beef, eggs, cottage cheese, yogurt and quinoa. Avoid processed foods, sugars and sugary drinks as much as possible. These won't do your weight loss goals any favors. Try to stick to whole, natural foods that are as close to their original form as possible.
5. Pouch reset recipes
One of the best ways to reset your pouch is to follow a healthy, balanced diet. This means eating plenty of whole foods and minimizing processed items. It can be helpful to create a list of go-to recipes that you know are both nutritious and satisfying. Here are a few of our favorites:
1. Quinoa Burrito Bowls: This delicious dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect meal for resetting your pouch.
2. Roasted Vegetable Salad: This healthy salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It's loaded with antioxidant-rich vegetables, making it great for your health and your pouch.
3. Turkey Chili: hearty and protein-rich, this chili is perfect for resetting your pouch while satisfying your hunger.
4. Power Greens Stir-Fry: nutrient-rich and veggie-packed, this stir-fry is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.
After bariatric surgery, many patients find that they need to reset their pouch in order to start losing weight again. This guide provides everything you need to know about resetting your pouch, including what to eat, what not to eat, and recipes for the perfect pouch reset meal plan.