Hey Babe! During this time of the year I often get asked if bariatric patients can have soups, stews and chilis. I get the confusion! Is it liquid? I thought I can’t mix liquid and food? How do I track and weigh this? Do I have to pick the protein out and eat that first?

All of these are AMAZING questions! I’m going to answer them today!

Mixed foods

Soups, stews and chilis are what I consider a “Mixed Food”. That means that you don’t have a way to necessarily “eat your protein first” because everything is mized together.

As long as you can tolerate foods like chili, soup, stews, etc. you absolutely can have them! These types of foods can often offer lots of protein, veggies, and be incredibly satisfying! Some would even refer to it as comfort food. Just because it doesn’t “look” exactly like the meal plate, doesn’t mean it isn’t a balanced meal. 

Please, I beg you, don’t spend time picking the beef out of your chili or the chicken out of your soup just to have the protein first. It’s not necessary. And it will probably take a lot of enjoyment out of your meal. 

How to track 

Instead of weighing out each section of the meal plate, I would suggest measuring or weighing the total amount of food you plan on eating. For example – if you normally eat 4 oz or 1/2 a cup at a time, just measure that portion out and enjoy your meal mixed together.

Just try and choose something that does have some protein and veggies in it. Like a chicken and veggie soup, a stir fry, or chili. It’s okay if you don’t always know the exact macros in foods that are mixed. Use your best judgment, listen to your body, and be sure to hit your protein goal by the end of the day.

Mixing liquids and solids

And as far as soup being a combination of liquids and solids, as long as you’re not eating soup for every single meal, it shouldn’t be an issue. The reason we don’t eat and drink together is because it can push the food through your pouch quicker, making it easier to eat more. For some, it may also make you not feel well. As always, check with your surgeon/dietitian before adding foods in and be sure to follow your post-op diet.

Wrapping it up

As bariatric patients, we have so many limitations as it is. I hate to see people unnecessarily cutting out foods that they might enjoy. If you can tolerate it, there’s no reason these foods can’t fit into your routine!

If you’re ready to have clear guidance on how to eat in a way that feels joyful and supports your weight loss goals, check out the T.R.I.B.E – we are a one-stop shop where all your post-op weight loss surgery needs are met in one place. Not only will you have prime access to support materials on demand, but this month you’ll also have access to forty (40!) live support group sessions. The pressures of this time of year can dial up our emotions, so a community of people who understand what you’re going through is so valuable.