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Let’s talk pre-op essentials. Preparing for gastric bypass surgery is a big step, and one of the toughest parts can be navigating the pre-op liquid diet. Whether you’re sipping meal replacement shakes or sticking to low-calorie soups, this phase can feel monotonous and challenging. But don’t worry—there are ways to make the experience more enjoyable!
Here’s a list of pre-op essentials that will help make your liquid diet more comfortable, convenient, and even a bit fun. From cute shakers to self-care goodies, these items will add a little extra joy to your weight loss surgery preparation.
Read about my Pre-Op Journey here
6 Pre-Op Essentials to Make Life a Little Easier
Cute and Functional Protein Shaker Bottles
Having a high-quality shaker bottle is essential when you’re drinking multiple protein shakes every day. Why settle for a plain, boring one when you can choose something that brightens your mood? Look for shakers that:
- Come in fun colors or patterns that reflect your style.
- Have measurement markings to ensure you’re getting the right portion sizes.
- Include a blender ball or mixing mechanism to eliminate clumps in your shakes.
Stylish Insulated Tumblers
Even though your liquid intake will consist mostly of shakes and soups, having a beautiful, stylish tumbler can make it feel more enjoyable. Sipping from a nice cup, rather than the one you make your shake in, adds a bit of fun to the experience. Look for:
- Insulated glass tumblers to keep your drinks cold or warm.
- Lids and reusable straws for sipping on the go.
- Designs that match your personality, making each meal feel a bit more special.
Flavored Water Enhancers
Staying hydrated is essential, especially during your pre-op liquid diet. Drinking plain water all day can get boring fast, but water enhancers can help! These sugar-free, calorie-free flavor drops can transform your hydration routine, making it easier to drink enough water throughout the day.
Look For:
- Electrolyte-enhanced versions to help maintain your hydration levels.
- Natural flavors like lemon, berry, or mint for a refreshing taste.
- Caffeine-free options to avoid jitteriness.
Top Pick: Go for an all-natural, zero-calorie water enhancer with a light, fruity flavor to keep things interesting.
Portion-Controlled Soup Mugs
If you’re enjoying low-calorie soups during your pre-op phase, having a dedicated soup mug can make mealtimes easier and more enjoyable. Look for mugs with:
- Portion markings to make sure you’re sticking to the correct serving sizes.
- Microwave-safe materials so you can heat up soups quickly.
- Lids for easy storage and portability if you’re on the go.
Meal Prep Containers for Pre-Portioning
The pre-op phase requires careful attention to portion sizes and meal timing. Investing in good meal prep containers will help you stay organized and on track with your liquid diet. Whether you’re prepping soups or mixing up shakes in advance, having a set of durable, leak-proof containers will make life easier.
Why You Need Them:
- Saves time by pre-portioning your meals and shakes.
- Prevents overeating since you’re sticking to planned portions.
- Helps you stay consistent, which is critical for the pre-op phase.
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Fun Ice Cube Trays for Variety
If you’re tired of the same old shakes every day, why not mix things up with flavored ice cubes? Get some fun, silicone ice cube trays and fill them with flavored water, unsweetened tea, or even protein shake mixtures. Once frozen, these cubes can add a refreshing twist to your drinks!
Why You’ll Love It: Adding different flavors and textures to your shakes can make the liquid diet feel less monotonous. Plus, they’re great for cooling down shakes or soups on hot days!
Preparing for gastric bypass surgery is a big emotional and physical commitment, but having the right essentials can make the pre-op liquid diet phase a lot more enjoyable. From cute shakers and stylish tumblers to self-care items like a weighted blanket, these little comforts can make a big difference in how you navigate the weeks leading up to surgery.
Remember, this is a transformative journey, and finding ways to enjoy the process, even in small ways, will help you stay motivated and positive as you prepare for your life-changing weight loss surgery.
