Feeling Overwhelmed With Post-Op Eating? Here’s a Stage-by-Stage Meal Plan to Simplify Everything

The weeks after weight loss surgery can feel like information overload - what to eat, what
texture, how much, how often, what to avoid, and how to meet your protein targets. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone.

The good news? You don’t need perfection. You do need structure, consistency, and a clear plan for each stage of recovery.

Below is a simple, high-level meal plan to guide you through the texture progression
stages - Liquid, Puréed, Soft, and Solid. This isn’t meant to replace professional advice or
your personalised plan, but it can help you understand what your days might look like.

For detailed portion sizes, step-by-step recipes, and dozens of stage-appropriate options,

our Texture Progression Cookbook Series (Liquid, Puréed, Soft, and Solid) is available to support you at every step - with both regular and vegetarian options.

Stage-by-Stage Sample Post-Op Meal Plan

⭐ Stage 1: Liquid Diet (Typically Weeks 1–2)

Focus on hydration and protein. Sip slowly throughout the day.

Daily sample structure

• Breakfast: Protein shake (smooth, no lumps)
• Mid-morning: Clear broth or a sugar-free electrolyte drink
• Lunch: Low-fat yoghurt (thinned if required) or a second protein shake
• Afternoon: Herbal tea, water, or sugar-free jelly
• Dinner: Smooth blended soup (strained if needed)
• Evening: Small protein drink if required to meet daily protein goals

Get full liquid-stage recipes, flavour variations, and sample schedules in our Liquid Stage Cookbook

⭐ Stage 2: Puréed Diet (Usually Weeks 2–4)

Aim for smooth, spoonable textures. Protein still comes first.

Daily sample structure

• Breakfast: Smooth puréed scrambled egg or Greek yoghurt
• Snack: Cottage cheese blended with a little milk to soften texture
• Lunch: Puréed chicken blended with vegetables and broth
• Snack: Silken tofu with soft puréed fruit
• Dinner: Blended lentil and vegetable soup
• Optional evening: Protein yoghurt if needed

See our Puréed Diet Cookbook for full recipes, combinations, and correct portion guidance

⭐ Stage 3: Soft Diet (Usually Weeks 4–6)

Foods must be soft, moist, and easy to chew. This stage helps build tolerance gradually.

Daily sample structure

• Breakfast: Soft scrambled eggs with ricotta
• Snack: Soft cheese or mashed banana
• Lunch: Flaky baked fish with steamed soft vegetables
• Snack: High-protein yoghurt
• Dinner: Slow-cooked chicken with mashed pumpkin

Our Soft Diet Cookbook includes full meal ideas, safe textures, and practical portion examples

⭐ Stage 4: Solid Foods (Week 6+)

This is where long-term habits begin. Protein first, chew well, and choose whole foods.

Daily sample structure

• Breakfast: High-protein yoghurt with a spoon of soft fruit
• Snack: Cheese slices or a boiled egg
• Lunch: Chicken stir-fry with soft vegetables
• Snack: Small serve of hummus with soft vegetable sticks
• Dinner: Tender beef, fish, or tofu with cooked vegetables

For sustainable long-term meals, check out our Solid-Stage Cookbooks

Feeling Lost? Here’s how the texture books help

Our Texture Progression Series is designed for new post-op patients who want:

✅ Full stage-specific recipes
Not just ideas, but actual recipes developed by a bariatric dietitian.

✅ Clear portion sizes
Know exactly how much is appropriate at each stage - no guessing.

✅ Structured, safe guidance
Each book explains:

• What’s allowed
• What to avoid
• How to hit your protein goals
• How to transition safely

✅ More variety
Especially when boredom hits during liquids and purées.

✅ Vegetarian options available
Because food preferences shouldn’t get in the way of success.

You’re Not Expected to Do This Alone

Your post-surgery eating doesn’t need to be perfect - just safe, structured, and progressive.

With a clear plan and the right tools, you can nourish your body, protect your new stomach, and feel confident at every stage.