Recovering after bariatric surgery means making smart, lasting food choices-and traditional Indian meals can support your weight loss goals without sacrificing flavor. Many local dishes, when prepared healthily, offer the perfect blend of nutrition and comfort. Here are the top 10 Indian foods that promote weight loss and healing after bariatric surgery.
1. Moong Dal Khichdi
Light, easy to digest, and rich in protein, moong dal khichdi is a go-to meal for post-surgery recovery. It's soothing on the stomach and helps you feel full without overeating.
2. Handvo (Baked Lentil Cake)
Made from a fermented batter of lentils and rice with bottle gourd, handvo is rich in fiber and protein. Bake it with minimal oil for a nutritious, filling snack.
3. Dudhi (Bottle Gourd) Curry
Dudhi is low in calories and water-rich-ideal for hydration and digestion. A mildly spiced curry with soft-cooked bottle gourd is gentle and healing.
4. Thepla (with Methi or Lauki)
When made with minimal oil and whole wheat, soft theplas with fenugreek or bottle gourd can be a fiber-rich option during later stages of recovery.
5. Steamed Idlis
Made from fermented rice and urad dal batter, steamed idlis are light, soft, and easy to digest. They provide small amounts of protein and are a gentle way to introduce solids post-surgery.
6. Grilled Chicken (Indian Style)
Marinated with Indian spices like turmeric, cumin, and garlic, grilled chicken is a high-protein, low-fat option. It supports muscle maintenance and satisfies hunger while being bariatric-friendly.
7. Chaas (Buttermilk)
This probiotic-rich drink aids digestion, keeps you hydrated, and can be enjoyed between meals to reduce hunger cravings.
8. Tuvar Dal Soup
Split pigeon pea soup is protein-packed and easily digestible. Prepare it with mild spices for a nourishing, warm meal.
9. Steamed Muthia (Vegetable Dumplings)
Made with leafy greens like spinach or bottle gourd, these steamed dumplings are low in fat and high in fiber-great for digestion and satiety.
10. Low-Fat Paneer Bhurji
Crumbled paneer sautéed lightly with vegetables is rich in protein and can help maintain muscle mass after surgery.
Struggling with Post-Surgery Nutrition?
Dr. Mahendra Narwaria and the team at Asian Bariatrics Private Limited offer expert bariatric care and dietary guidance tailored for Indian lifestyles. Book a consultation today and take the next step in your weight-loss journey with confidence!
Dr. Mahendra Narwaria is a pioneer in laparoscopic bariatric surgery in India with over 25 years of experience and 10000 plus surgeries performed. His practice, Asian Bariatrics Private Limited located in Ahmedabad, is recognised as a bariatric surgery Centre of Excellence and his patients have access to all bariatric surgical procedures under his supervision.