If you’ve undergone weight-loss surgery, you may be wondering, why am I having foul-smelling bowel movements after my gastric bypass?
Many gastric bypass patients experience a small amount of intestinal gas, foul-smelling stool, loose stool, and other side effects post-op. Although these are all fairly normal side effects of a gastric bypass, they can lead to a negative self-image.
It is important to know that you are not alone! These side effects are just part of the recovery process.
We know that it can be discouraging, and even embarrassing at times. That’s why our WeightWise experts have compiled this comprehensive overview on the topic.
Why it Occurs
Metabolic and bariatric surgeries change the way that your body processes food. This typically causes the undesirable gastrointestinal issues that are so common after gastric bypass surgeries.
More specifically, gastric bypass surgery helps you lose weight by altering your digestive system. After the procedure, your stomach is smaller and food digests more quickly. Because of this, your body absorbs fewer nutrients and you produce more gas and funky smells than before.
Typically, this is not a long-term issue. However, if it persists well past your recovery, make sure to talk to your doctor.
Controlling the Issue
Reducing the amount of undesirable side effects post-op can be difficult if you do not follow the guidelines provided by your surgeon. Nutritional deficiencies are one of the biggest issues faced with any bariatric surgery (laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, roux en y gastric bypass, duodenal switch, etc.) so make sure to routinely take the recommended supplements.
- Avoid drinking carbonated beverages. This can prevent the introduction of excess air into the digestive system.
- Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly to improve digestion.
- Don’t drink liquids during meals and wait until 60 minutes afterward before drinking again.
- Completely avoid foods with large amounts of sugar. Consuming them can lead to dumping syndrome, which causes diarrhea, excess gas, dizziness, flushing, a drop in blood pressure, and an increase in heart rate.
- Take note of which foods you ate prior to any foul-smelling bowel movements. Certain foods may affect you more than others, so avoiding them can help.
- If you feel like it’s needed, talk to your doctor about which over-the-counter medications might be right for you.
Fever? Abdominal pain?
If you have a fever, abdominal pain, or other negative symptoms along with foul-smelling gas and diarrhea, contact your doctor immediately.
Your Bariatric Surgery Experts
Here at WeightWise, we make it our mission to treat our patients with the utmost care. That’s why we make sure to have a dedicated staff of patient advocates at your disposal! Our advocates are there to help you navigate through your weight loss journey, pain-free.
Have any questions or concerns? Contact us today!