Weight Loss Surgery Shopping Companion

Nutrition labels are on any packaged food item and apply to produce and meat products - providing valuable information on food quality.

After Weight Loss Surgery, the type of food you consume, quantity and quality will significantly change.

The nutrition label on packaged food items can be a cheat sheet to help you make healthy food choices and habits. It will ensure you eat nutrient-dense foods after surgery since malnutrition is a potential side effect of Bariatric Surgery.

A selection guideline of;

• Grains
• Meat & Meat Alternatives
• Dairy & Alternatives
• Fats & Oils
• Ready to Eat Meals
• Snacks
• Protein Bars, Balls, Powders & Shakes
• Sauces, Condiments & Dressings

1. Start at the top

2. Limit poor nutrients (total fat, cholesterol, sodium)

3. Focus on protein

4. Assess carbohydrates

5. Go for vitamins and minerals

• Look at the calories: The top of the food label lists the number of calories and the serving size. You should aim for low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods in your diet after Bariatric Surgery.
• Consider the serving size: Serving size is listed just under the calorie level, where calorie and nutrient values listed are per serving. 
• Check the nutrients: Food labels list all nutrients and tell you how much you’ll get per serving.