If you have recently had weight loss surgery, you know that your gastrointestinal system has undergone some big changes. Because of that, you will need to change your diet and eating patterns. Here are some issues to be aware of as you transition into your new lifestyle.
Dumping syndrome
If you overeat and force food into the small intestine, or if you eat a meal that has too much fat, you can experience dumping syndrome. This happens when concentrated sugars enter the small intestine and cause fluid to enter it quickly. This can cause cramping, sweating, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and gut distention.
Effects of alcohol may be enhanced
After bariatric surgery, you will need to eat less. If you are drinking and eating less, you could become intoxicated quickly. Drinking alcohol can also increase the risk of having low blood sugar, which can limit the absorption of minerals and vitamins. Doctors recommend no alcohol intake as you start the rapid weight loss phase.
Gastrointestinal upset
Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting can be common side effects during the weight loss phase, especially if you are not following dietary guidelines. If you are eating or drinking too quickly, drinking fluid with your meal or advancing the diet too fast, you could be nauseous or even experience vomiting.
If you are not eating enough fiber, you could become constipated and if your diet is too high in fat, you may have diarrhea. It’s important to talk to your nutritionist at WeightWise to ensure you know what foods are recommended during your first few weeks and months of recovery. This will help limit any negative gastrointestinal side effects.
Frothing
Your stomach pouch may collect mucous during the healing process, or if you have severe seasonal allergies. This could produce clear froth and the mucous could make eating difficult. To help combat this, drink a warm beverage like tea or broth before you eat. This will help break up the mucus, making it more comfortable to eat a meal. If you notice frothing after a meal, it’s probably because you have eaten too much.
Other Physical Changes
Hair thinning/loss between the 4th and 6th months after surgery is most likely a result of stress, surgery, and rapid weight loss. Extra protein or vitamins and minerals will not help with hair loss associated with this. If you experience hair loss one year or later after your weight loss surgery, nutritional deficiencies (iron, zinc, protein) may be to blame. Please discuss this with your dietitian.
Taste Distortion/Sensory Aversions
Patients experience a wide range of taste distortion, from none to severe. Be aware this can occur, as well as an increase in other senses, such as smell. We do not know why these happen, and they vary widely from patient to patient.
Minimizing any negative side effects after bariatric surgery is important to us. We will help answer any questions you have about your diet and lifestyle changes so you can have the most successful outcome possible. Contact our experienced team at WeightWise today to get your weight loss journey started.