Pre-Operative Diets
Preparing for your pre op diet can be easy or challenging, finding the right balance and flavours that work for you is key to successfully completing your pre-op diet.
Key Differences Between Clinic Pre-Op Diets
Turkey Pre-Op Diet
Full liquid diet
- Liquid diet only
- Protein shakes + clear fluids
- Under 800 calories daily
- Strict liver shrink protocol
- Usually 2 weeks before surgery depending on BMI
Mexico Pre-Op Diet
Solid foods allowed
- High protein, low carb
- Lean meats + vegetables
- More flexible approach
- Usually 5–30 days before surgery depending on BMI
Purpose and Pre Op Diet Duration
The purpose of the pre-op diet is to reduce liver size, improve surgical safety, and prepare the body for recovery after surgery.
Depending on your BMI, medical history, and clinic requirements, the following pre-op diet durations may apply:
- 3-5 days
- 7-14 days
- 15-30 days
Your required pre-op diet duration will be confirmed following assessment by your chosen clinic.
Daily Target
Clients should aim for the following daily targets:
- 60 - 70grams of protein daily
- Under 800 calories daily
- Minimum 2 litres of fluids daily
- 3 grams of sugar or less
- Low carbohydrate
- Low fat
Protein Shake Recommendations
Your primary nutrition during the pre-op diet may come from high protein, low sugar meal replacement shakes or a high protein, low carbohydrate diet depending on your chosen clinic.
Recommended NZ options:
- Optifast
- Optislim
- BN Healthy
- Fusion
Protein shakes may be mixed with:
- Water
- Skim milk
Food & Important Restrictions
Important Notes
- No smoking
- No aspirin/blood thinners 7-days prior to surgery
- Continue light exercise/walking
- Nothing to eat or drink after midnight before surgery
Foods & Drinks to Avoid
- Fried foods
- Bread
- Rice
- Pasta
- Carbonated drinks
- High sugar foods
- Fatty foods
- Alcohol
