Clear Liquids Phase
The first 7 days after your surgery are fundamental for gastric healing. This guide is designed with brands available in Costa Rica.
The Clinical Objective (Days 1 to 7)
During the first week, your neo-stomach is highly inflamed due to the staple lines (triple-row titanium stapling). The goal of this phase is not to lose weight or nourish yourself (the body will use its reserves), but to guarantee constant hydration without subjecting the tissue to mechanical stress.
The Surgical Golden Rule: "Baby Sips"
Your gastric capacity has been reduced from 1500ml to approximately 60-90ml. Do not use straws (they introduce gas into the stomach) and drink in tiny sips (1 ounce at a time) waiting 10-15 minutes between each sip.
Daily Hydration Schedule (Average Goal: 1.5 Liters)
Note: It is normal not to reach the goal in the first 3 days. Prioritize tolerance over volume.
| Daily Block | Allowed Liquid Type | Suggested Volume |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 am - 10:00 am | Mild infusion (Chamomile, Linden) warm. Zero caffeine. | 4 - 6 ounces (in sips) |
| 10:00 am - 01:00 pm | Electrolyte Serum (Electrolit ZERO, Pedialyte 30, Powerade ION4). | 8 - 12 ounces |
| 01:00 pm - 04:00 pm | Chicken / Beef / Fish Broth strictly strained. No visible fat. Warm. | 6 - 8 ounces |
| 04:00 pm - 07:00 pm | Natural water at room temperature or Zero/Light Gelatin (without chunks). | 8 ounces |
| Night (Up to 1 hr before sleeping) | Serum or water. Stop liquids before bedtime to avoid reflux. | As tolerated |
Shopping List in Costa Rica
- ✓ Base Broths: Prepare "olla de carne" or chicken broth, let it cool in the refrigerator and remove the fat layer that forms on top. The remaining liquid must be filtered through a cloth or coffee strainer.
- ✓ Sugar-free gelatin: Jell-O Zero or Royal Light brand (Available at MasxMenos / AutoMercado). Prepare it with slightly more water than indicated so it is more fluid.
- ✓ Flavored Drinks: Crystal Light or Tang Zero (small packets). Use half a packet per liter to prevent mucosal irritation due to acidity/sweetness.
Total Prohibition
Carbonated drinks (they dilate the stomach and cause acute pain), natural juices with pulp (acids/sugar), dairy of any kind, alcohol, and high glycemic index drinks (regular Gatorade).
Dehydration Alert
Monitor the color of your urine. If it is dark yellow, similar to apple juice, or if you experience dizziness/headaches when standing up, increase your intake of Electrolit. Contact the team if dizziness persists.