Before surgery, the Registered Dietitian (RD) talks to surgical candidates about the lifestyle changes necessary for their specific surgery. The RD also motivates patients to get a head-start the healthy behaviors critical for WLS. Depending on the insurance company, the patient and RD meet at least monthly for as long to six months before surgery.

The nutrition program starts with the comprehensive Bariatric Nutrition class. One-on-one appointments with the RD follow this class. These appointments allow patients to progress at their own rate and address issues specific to them. Furthermore, it allows the RD to assess the patients and their potential for success.

Classes are offered monthly at Fremont and Palo Alto. To register please call 510-498-2184 for Fremont and 650-853-2961 for Palo Alto classes.

• Bariatric Nutrition Class
• Individualized Counseling

Bariatric Nutrition Class

The Bariatric Nutrition class is mandated for all patients considering WLS. The class provides an overview of medical nutrition therapy and individualized lifestyle changes for the WLS candidate. It addresses required dietary and lifestyle modifications, starting at the time of surgery, extending through the life of the postoperative WLS patient. Coordinated with a comprehensive overview of the surgical procedure and an open forum in which patients may ask questions, surgical candidates may explore if the surgery and corresponding lifestyle is right for them.

Class topics include:

1. Lifelong modifications of diet and lifestyle: requirements for success


2. Weight loss expectations: patients calculate their “excess body weight” and review realistic expectations for the surgery


3. Review of factors that affect body weight


4. Review of the three-stage post-op diet: clear liquid, semi-liquid and semi-solid


5. Instructions for supplementing the diet: multivitamins, calcium, B12, iron and protein


6. Review of nutrition deficiencies and problems associated with inappropriate eating: nausea and vomiting, dumping syndrome, dehydration, and vitamin and mineral deficiency


7. Identifying individualized nutrition and lifestyle goals and creating an action plan

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Individualized Counseling

Individualized nutrition counseling includes assessment, evaluation, education and coaching on lifestyle management following WLS. It prepares the WLS candidate for both pre- and post-op challenges.

The goal for pre-op management is to optimize nutrition status before surgery. This minimizes risks during surgery and maximizes the healing process. The goal for post-op management is to identify and practice necessary lifestyle changes to make a smooth transition through the post-operative process.

Counseling will also help the patient explore potential concerns to prevent nutrition complications. The RD uses cognitive behavior therapy and motivational interviewing to help patients identify and incorporate critical changes.
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