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Once you have a support system, it’s time to get down to the “nuts and bolts” of the gastric band procedure. If you are a smoker, you should quit smoking several months before your scheduled procedure. You may also wish to meet with your doctor several times before the procedure so that he or she can monitor your physical condition and reconfirm that you are an excellent candidate for the procedure. You will also want to take this time to ask any lingering questions and make a list of reminders for both pre- and post-op.
The week before
It’s about as important to go to the supermarket, as well as the doctor, before the procedure. A day or two before you get your gastric band; you’ll want to make a list of approved foods for your recovery. The band will drastically change the type of foods that you are able to eat as well as how much of it you are able to eat. Most patients have a clear liquid-only diet immediately after the procedure, followed by more sustaining liquids such as soups, puréed foods and smoothies. Finally, a patient may incorporate soft foods after several weeks. Because making such a sudden change to your diet already carries with it a certain amount of stress, you can make your transition much easier by having these kinds of foods on hand before you begin your recovery.
Another step you can take to make your transition easier is to begin reducing the amount of food you eat beforehand and to adopt a diet that is low in fat and sugar and high in nutrients. This will help you get used to eating four to five small meals each day and cleanse your body, making your gastric band procedure easier.