The Truth About Cooking Oils After Bariatric Surgery: What to Use and What to Avoid
Apr 25, 2025

After undergoing bariatric surgery, making informed dietary choices is crucial for long-term success. One often overlooked aspect is the type of cooking oils used in meal preparation. Not all oils are created equal, and some can hinder your weight loss journey or even impact your health negatively.
Understanding Cooking Oils
Cooking oils vary in their smoke points, nutritional profiles, and effects on the body. Here's a breakdown of commonly used oils:
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Butter & Ghee: These are best suited for low to medium-heat cooking. They add flavor and richness to dishes but should be used sparingly due to their saturated fat content.
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Coconut Oil: Solid at room temperature, coconut oil is stable at high heat, making it suitable for baking and frying. However, it imparts a distinct coconut flavor, which may not be desirable in all dishes.
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Avocado Oil: With a high smoke point, avocado oil is excellent for roasting and sautéing. It's rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
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Olive Oil: Best used for dressings or low-heat cooking. Extra virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point and can degrade at high temperatures, potentially forming harmful compounds.
It's also important to be cautious with seed oils like canola and soybean oil. These are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which, in excess, can promote inflammation and disrupt hormonal balance. While some studies suggest that omega-6 fatty acids are not inherently harmful, moderation is key. (heart.org)
Tracking Oil Intake
Oils are calorie-dense, with about 120 calories per tablespoon. It's easy to overlook these calories, especially when using spray oils that claim to have zero calories per serving. In reality, a one-second spray can add approximately 9 calories. Consistently neglecting to account for these can lead to unintended calorie surplus, potentially stalling weight loss progress.
Making Healthier Choices
For those navigating post-bariatric life, it's essential to:
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Choose the right oils: Opt for oils that align with your cooking methods and health goals.
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Monitor quantities: Be mindful of the amount of oil used in cooking and dressings.
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Avoid highly processed oils: Limit intake of oils high in omega-6 fatty acids, such as canola and soybean oils.
For more guidance on healthy eating after bariatric surgery, consider exploring resources like The Rewrite Lifestyle's guide on bariatric nutrition.
Join the Community
Engaging with a supportive community can provide motivation and practical tips. Join the Bariatric Rewrite Facebook Group to connect with others on similar journeys, share recipes, and gain insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-surgery.
Making informed choices about cooking oils is a small yet significant step in ensuring the success of your bariatric surgery. By selecting appropriate oils and monitoring their use, you can support your weight loss goals and overall health.
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