When bowel activity has resumed, clear liquids are given by mouth and the nasogastric tube is clamped. Four hours after each of the first several meals the tube is unclamped and gastric residual measured. If there is no evidence of retention, a progressive feeding regimen is begun. This consists of five or six small feedings per day of soft food, moderately restricted in volume, high in protein, and relatively low in carbohydrate. Although many patients after gastric surgery dislike dairy products, the majority will tolerate milk, eggs, custards, toast, and cream soups, as the first step of the diet. Other soft foods are added as rapidly as the tolerance of the individual will permit. By the tenth day, a feeling of fullness may develop caused by mild retention and a tendency to overeat. Self-restriction of the dietary intake for a few days is indicated.