116 Part II: Now You’re Cooking! Healthy and Hearty Dishes
won’t get stuck. Getting food stuck your first meal of the day can make you
miserable all day and limit your food choices.
Sometimes after surgery, when you wake up in the morning your stomach
pouch may feel unsettled, or if you had AGB, your band may feel “tight.” This
is due to bodily fluids that collect in your pouch overnight. Sipping a warm
beverage, such as decaffeinated tea or warm water, can help calm your pouch
and make it easier for you to eat breakfast.
Coffee, both regular and decaffeinated, may not be tolerated in the early
months after surgery because coffee beans themselves can be irritants.
Caffeine is also a diuretic, so decaffeinated tea may be your best choice after
surgery.
Take 20 to 30 minutes to eat your breakfast, and if you’re in a big hurry to
get out the door in the morning, make a breakfast that you can take with
you. Pick a recipe that you can make in five minutes or less. Or if you want to
have a more leisurely family breakfast on the weekend, choose a recipe that
takes longer. We include recipes that taste good to everybody, so your whole
family can enjoy the breakfast you prepare.
Note that the portion sizes in these recipes are intended for people who are at
least a few months out from surgery. If you’re still eating smaller meals, split
the recipe into more portions and eat only the amount you need.
Waking Up Your Pouch Gently with
Yogurt and Fruit Recipes
Getting your pouch ready to take on the day is not easy for some. So begin
with a few sips of warm liquid such as decaf coffee, herbal tea, or warm water
to allow the pouch to relax and get ready to start taking in breakfast. Fruit
is about 80 percent water, so it’s easy to eat. In addition, it’s loaded with
vitamins and minerals. Fruit doesn’t provide protein, though, which is where
yogurt comes in.
