The post-op diet, phase by phase — and why it is not negotiable

Phase 1, days 1–14: clear then full liquids

Water, broth, diluted protein drinks. Target 60–80 g protein and 1.5 litres of fluid daily, sipped constantly. This is the phase where dehydration sends people back to hospital, not hunger.

Phase 2, weeks 3–4: purée

Anything smooth: yoghurt, blended soups, puréed fish, scrambled eggs. Protein still comes first at every meal. Three to four small meals plus separate fluids between them.

Phase 3, weeks 5–8: soft food

Flaked fish, minced meat, soft vegetables. Chew far longer than feels necessary — twenty times per mouthful is the standard advice, and it is the habit that prevents pain and vomiting later.

Phase 4, from week 9: normal texture, small portions

Protein first, vegetables second, carbohydrate last. No drinking 30 minutes before or after eating. Avoid fizzy drinks, and treat alcohol with caution — absorption is faster and tolerance much lower after surgery.