Bariatric Surgery (gastric sleeve) dining suggestions

[GorshGoofy]

Magical Greetings ... I've been away for a long time (don't ask -- jealous wife, non-Disney fan, single again). I'm probably going to have gastric sleeve surgery in the fall and have an already planned solo WDW trip set for December (could postpone to late January). Curious to know what dishes/restaurants other post-bariatric surgery "patients" have found appropriate. I've done a search but found little detail. I'm sure it's out there and don't want to rehash what has already been discussed. Can anyone point me toward those threads, discussions? Thanks!

GorshGoofy

 

[kanerf]

I would just order off the kid's menu everywhere. After bariatric surgery you will not be able to eat very much, that is the point. Note that I have not had the surgery, just heard others talk about it.

 

[NYCgrrl]

Just put “gastric sleeve surgery“ into the on site search box and a ton of threads will pop up. Good times for your forthcoming trip!

 

[Lilsia]

My sister had gastric weight loss surgery last year and still eats very little. She eats no carbs/sugar/gluten. After her broth only period, she started adding small amounts of solid food, and I am talking tablespoons of food. She will go out to eat with the family and order food that she can eat, but 1 meal can last her several days as leftovers. I don't agree with the ordering kids meal advice since most of those foods are ones that you will want to avoid. They will make you sick. If you have not already, go on support sites and see what people are saying that have been through it. Good luck.

 

[ENJDisneyFan]

Definitely avoid anywhere that is "all you care to eat" or fixed price since you'll be charged as an adult even if you can't eat much.

 

[Debbie Jean]

I would just order off the kid's menu everywhere. After bariatric surgery you will not be able to eat very much, that is the point. Note that I have not had the surgery, just heard others talk about it.

While this seems intuitive to people who have not had surgery, it is in most cases completely wrong.

Post-surgery, because your stomach can hold so little, it must be protein first. Since kid's meals tend to be carb heavy, they are not appropriate... even if you could choke them down, they would in all likelihood make you very sick.

I usually tell people that the surgery involves butchering your stomach.... like a child you will need to teach it to eat again.... slowly.... clear liquids, mushies, soft protein, etc. To repeat....because your new stomach can hold so little, it will be protein first. You will become an expert on protein drinks LOL I am almost 5 years post-op and still bring protein powder along with me on trips.

I often travel solo and frankly limit the number of sit downs I do. Look for places you can grab quick protein... yogurts, cheese packs, etc. Depending on how far out you are from your surgery, you may or may not be able to eat salads. Even now when I order a "meal" I focus on the protein and switch out the veg if I can .. since I can't really eat that much, it is about the experience as much as the food.

Be sure to seek the advice of your bariatric team for guidance on what you can/cannot eat at various stages. They are experts! If there is a post -surgical support group, join! There is a wisdom you will find in being with people who can share their experiences.

Best wishes on your future surgery! It is a process and an adjustment but I think I speak for many folks who have walked that road, that it is well worth it!

 

[Moochie13]

Following. I had a mini gastric bypass 11 weeks ago. Going to WDW in July. I spent a lot of time scouring restaurant menus to find things I can eat. Still not sure what I can eat at Skipper Canteen, but my girls want to go so i guess I’ll sort it out there!

 

[Deb & Bill]

Maybe try appetizers instead of entrees.

 

[anitag888]

I will say that I went to WDW last December after having had sleeve in August, and I brought along a lot of the things I needed like protein shakes and sugar free gatorade. The advantage was certainly the cost savings, but when we did splurge at BOG, I had a small bit of the soup, and a bit of the filet with veggies. I made sure I had people with me who I knew would be able to finish my meal since I knew I would be unable, and I wanted to be sure to get my $$ worth. My son was proposing there at the restaurant, so it was important for us to be there, and even though I ate very little, it was wonderful. We are going back this December, and I too am looking for recommendations that will be doable for 15 mos post-op.

 

[Debbie Jean]

I will say that I went to WDW last December after having had sleeve in August, and I brought along a lot of the things I needed like protein shakes and sugar free gatorade. The advantage was certainly the cost savings, but when we did splurge at BOG, I had a small bit of the soup, and a bit of the filet with veggies. I made sure I had people with me who I knew would be able to finish my meal since I knew I would be unable, and I wanted to be sure to get my $$ worth. My son was proposing there at the restaurant, so it was important for us to be there, and even though I ate very little, it was wonderful. We are going back this December, and I too am looking for recommendations that will be doable for 15 mos post-op.

Everyone's sleeve is different and I guess I was blessed that mine has given me a wide latitude of foods I can still enjoy. Even at 5 years post-op, I still have problems with very dense or dry food. So chicken or turkey white meat is usually a no go for me. I like my proteins moist and less dense.... certain cuts of beef are fine, others, not. In looking at the BOG menu, I would almost certainly start with the salad... soups would be way too heavy and kill the rest of the meal. Luckily I was able to reintroduce salads, which I love, at 4 months. For an entree, I would be looking at the scallops... I often choose these because the portion is smaller and, if well cooked, are very moist. I'd also ask if they would swap out the risotto for a vegetable since carbs are something I limit where ever possible. If there was an option for a sugar free dessert or fruit, I might get it and take two bites... or I might simply decline dessert since there really is no way I could actually eat it. And to be honest, I'd be perfectly satisfied with that meal!

I might also actually treat myself to a glass of heart healthy red wine which happily agrees with my sleeve LOL And then really, really enjoy the ambiance and the company... its so much more for me now than just the food. At 15 months post op, your new little tummy is going to be so much more receptive to foods than when you went last time. Enjoy!

 

[starswilldiex]

I had rny 16 years ago and I have been to disney several times. I have always gone with my husband and when we got table service I either get an appetizer or my husband spent many mornings eating steak or other expensive meals for breakfast while I had something small in the food court.

It is very easy to overeat at disney so be prepared for that. Get meals you wouldn't mind re-heating or eating even semi-warm. Whatever way you end up eating at home post op that is the way you should continue to eat. (ex; low carb, keto, etc.)

I also know where a lot of bathrooms are at disney because unfortunately I have had a lot of complications. My biggest issue is I keep developing strictures (I have one now - waiting to get seen by my gastro. dr.) so I eat super small portions - even smaller than typical - especially for someone so far out because scar tissue keeps making my stomach even smaller until they stretch it out. I have also had my gallbladder out, needed iron infusions and blood transfusion despite taking my vitamins, have an ulcer, and have need dental surgery.

I have kept a majority of my weight off. I fluctuate between 135-175 due to other medical issues. I was 280 prior to surgery. Even with the complications I consider it a success.

Just be prepared that you may have issues or you may be completely fine. I wish you a lot of success!