Whole Health Weight Loss Institute

Nutrition

Your nutrition, for life after surgery.

A protein-first, plant-forward, sustainable framework — built with your care team for the long haul.

Patients and staff at a Whole Health Weight Loss Institute culinary and nutrition event in Napa

From a recent practice culinary event — cooking, tasting, and learning together.

The four non-negotiables

Four habits that change everything.

These are the daily anchors your care team will keep coming back to — the foundation that makes every other choice easier.

Water

At least 48 oz / day

Sip steadily throughout the day rather than drinking large amounts at once.

  • Carry a refillable bottle everywhere
  • Measure your intake so you know where you stand
  • Set phone reminders every hour
  • Infuse with fruit, lemon, lime, or fresh mint

Protein

Women ≥ 75 g · Men ≥ 90 g daily

Protein protects lean muscle, supports healing, and prevents post-surgical malnutrition.

  • Lean meat, poultry, fish, seafood
  • Eggs and dairy
  • Vegetarian: tofu, edamame, soybeans
  • Lentils, beans, legumes

Movement

~30 minutes daily

The first year is cardio-focused — gentle, sustainable, and joint-friendly.

  • Walking — start with what feels easy
  • Swimming and water aerobics
  • Cycling at a conversational pace
  • Build duration before intensity

Multivitamins

Bariatric-formulated, daily, for life

Bariatric anatomy changes how you absorb nutrients. A specialized multivitamin is non-negotiable.

  • Choose a bariatric-formulated product
  • Take it at the same time each day
  • Specific brand & dose: confirm with your care team
  • Re-check labs as your team recommends
Shop bariatric-formulated vitamins & protein → Online Store

Foods to limit or avoid

What gets in the way of healing.

Especially in the first year, these are the categories most likely to stall progress, cause discomfort, or undo the work of surgery.

  • Fried & fatty foods
  • Refined carbs — bread, pasta, tortillas, rice, potatoes
  • Added sugars
  • Carbonated drinks
  • Caffeine
  • Drinking through straws (adds air → discomfort)

Mindful eating

The whole-health piece.

Surgery changes your anatomy. Mindful eating changes your relationship with food — and that's what makes the results last.

Small bites

Cut food smaller than you think you need to.

Chew thoroughly

25–35 times per bite, until the texture is nearly liquid.

Small sips

Sip — don't gulp. Gulping creates pressure and discomfort.

Don't drink with meals

Stop fluids 30 min before and resume 30 min after eating.

Eat without distractions

No phone, no TV — let your body and brain stay connected.

Honor your cues

Stop at comfortably satisfied, well before overfull.

This page is general guidance — not a personalized plan. Your surgeon and care team will tailor protein targets, vitamin regimens, and progression to your procedure, labs, and history.

Build the plan that fits your life.

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