Many patients wonder whether they’ll ever be able to enjoy rice again after Bariatric Surgery. The bright side is that rice can’t be eliminated. The timing, amount, and type of rice consumed are important during recovery, though. This guide provides information on when you can have rice after bariatric surgery, types of rice that are easier to digest, and how you can safely include rice in your post-surgery diet.
Can You Eat Rice After Bariatric Surgery?
After bariatric surgery, it’s generally OK to eat rice, but you should do so slowly, depending on how you’re recovering and what your surgeon or dietitian advises. Rice is generally only introduced after the liquid and soft food stages. If they say it’s okay, try to eat a little at a time and see how your body responds.
When Can Rice Be Added to Your Diet?
First Few Weeks
Patients typically start a liquid and soft food diet right after surgery while their stomach is healing. In general, rice is not recommended in this stage, except when recommended by your health care team.
After Diet Progression
Once your diet progresses, you can add a small amount of soft and well-cooked rice. Slow eating and chewing make it easier to tolerate the food and decrease discomfort.
Long-Term Diet
When a person has completely recovered, rice may be added in small amounts to a Bariatric Surgery Diet Plan. It should be served with lean protein and vegetables to complement them, not replace them.
Which Type of Rice Is Better After Bariatric Surgery?
Soft or well-cooked rice is easier to digest than dry or undercooked rice.
- Brown rice: Harder, may not be tolerated to begin with.
- Brown rice: Good for fiber and may be more difficult to digest for some patients, particularly in early recovery.
- Avoid all hard-cooked rice. Avoid all hard-cooked rice—usually best to use soft-cooked rice when first introducing rice.
- Serving size: Eat a small amount at a time and only add more if recommended by your Health Care Provider.
Each person is different, and add rice slowly to see how they react.
Tips for Eating Rice Safely After Bariatric Surgery
Here are a few simple tips to help you digest food and avoid discomfort:
- Try eating smaller amounts.
- Chewing thoroughly.
- Take your time to eat, and eat slowly.
- Combine rice with lean protein such as chicken, fish, or dal.
- Do not overfeed, even if comfortable!
- Drink plenty of fluids all day, but not during meals, unless directed by your bariatric team.
Foods to Eat Along With Rice
Rice should be combined with other foods and not eaten alone. Good options include:
- Grilled chicken
- Fish
- Paneer
- Dal
- Eggs
- Cooked vegetables
The rice, protein, and vegetables together provide improved nutrition and longer-lasting satiety.
Foods to Avoid With Rice
To aid recovery and long-term weight loss, don’t “go down with rice”:
- Fried foods
- Sugary sauces
- High-fat curries
- Carbonated drinks
- Highly processed foods
These foods can contribute to weight gain and can lead to post-operative intestinal upset.
Long-Term Diet Tips After Bariatric Surgery
Successful long-term weight management is more than about selecting the right foods.
Eat protein with each meal.
- Use recommended vitamins and minerals.
- Stay well hydrated.
- Practice portion control.
- Follow up appointments and check-ups.
- Engage in regular exercise as recommended by your health care provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to have rice after bariatric surgery?
Yes. Rice will typically be allowed to be added slowly after the surgery, when your Surgeon or Dietitian says it’s ok.
What can I eat after bariatric surgery?
This will depend on your stage of recovery and treatment plan.
Have Questions About Your Diet After Bariatric Surgery?
Each patient’s recovery is unique, and his or her diet plan should differ accordingly. Discuss your specific nutritional plan and recovery needs with Dr. Achal Agrawal to ensure a safe recovery and to help you lose weight.
