Keto is an abbreviation for the word Ketogenic, which refers to a metabolic state called ketosis. Ketosis allows the body to become very efficient at burning fat for energy. The Keto diet is a low-carb, high (healthy) fat and moderate protein diet that puts the body in a state of ketosis.
A keto diet after bariatric surgery can be a natural choice, as it consists largely of proteins and healthy fats. Both help the body burn excess fat instead of muscle for a healthier weight loss journey. Patients who are at least 30 days post bariatric surgery can begin following a slightly modified ketogenic diet that is low in fat and high in protein to support continued fat loss.
Why a Keto diet after bariatric surgery is a good idea
High-protein diets are recommended for most bariatric patients following surgery to minimize the inevitable loss of lean body mass. Protein is an important nutrient that also encourages proper wound healing by building and repairing body tissues including skin, muscle and major organs.
While a Keto diet is not the only one that will work, it is a good high-protein option that will give the body everything it needs to heal and continue losing weight. Protein helps:
- Promote proper wound healing following bariatric surgery
- Encourage the body to burn fat instead of muscle for a healthier weight loss
- Support a higher metabolism to help speed weight loss
- People stay fuller, longer
Top 3 benefits of using a keto diet
Here are a few additional benefits of using the Keto diet after weight loss surgery:
- Produces rapid weight loss
The Keto diet encourages rapid water and fat loss within the first week. - Reduces sugar intake
Because the Keto diet is low carb, it helps you automatically cut out many unhealthy foods that contain sugar. - May promote long-term weight loss
When followed carefully, the Keto diet can help facilitate long-term weight loss.
Foods you can enjoy on a keto diet after weight loss surgery
When you’re eating the right foods, your body can enter a state of ketosis in one to three days. Oftentimes your bariatric surgeon may recommend beginning a ketogenic or high protein diet in the days or weeks leading up to your weight loss surgery to ensure your body is healthy and in a state of fat burning. Here are some of the foods you can enjoy before and after weight loss surgery:
- Meat and poultry
- Seafood
- Eggs
- Butter and cream
- Cheese
- Plain Greek yogurt and cottage cheese
- Nuts and seeds
- Oils (olive, coconut)
- Avocado
- Low-carb vegetables
- Herbs and spices
- Olives
- Berries
- Nut butter
- Unsweetened coffee and tea
If you or a loved one is considering a weight loss procedure, contact Dr. Wiljon Beltre at Beltre Bariatrics at 407-863-7108 to learn which procedure is right for you. We specialize in sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass procedures and offer long-term support after your initial weight loss surgery. We are here to guide and support you through your entire weight loss journey.
