Here at Tijuana Bariatrics, we always want to be upfront with our patients when it comes to life after bariatric surgery. There are many changes to you lifestyle which can lead to unexpected side effects and changes. While you will lose weight from bariatric surgery, you may notice other issues you did not expect.
A number of patients will notice issues with constipation after undergoing weight loss surgery. Let’s take a moment to consider the basics of this issue and offer some helpful tips on fiber intake and improving wellness.
Diet Changes After Bariatric Surgery
After you undergo any sort of bariatric surgery procedure, your diet will undergo a number of changes. This will typically mean small meals throughout the day. It also involves a focus on protein and low-fat foods. This sounds very healthy, yet sometimes there are limitations on what you eat, causing nutritional deficiencies and other problems.
Why Constipation Occurs After Weight Loss Surgery
After bariatric surgery, patients may not be consuming as much fiber as they did prior to the procedure. This can lead to problems moving your bowels. This is a normal part of recovery from surgery. It has nothing to do with the surgery affecting your bowel function but rather your daily diet and your body’s needs. There are plenty of ways to deal with constipation after surgery, so let’s keep the following in mind.
Good Sources of Natural Fiber After Bariatric Surgery
While fibrous foods can give you some digestive trouble, there are many great sources of soft fiber that you can incorporate into your daily diet. This includes the following:
- Beans
- Lentils
- Avocado
- Split peas
- Whole grain cereals
- Fresh fruits
- Fresh vegetables
If you notice that the foods listed above are hard to digest and give you discomfort, consider just adding small amount of these food items to your diet regularly throughout the day. A little fiber here and there can make a big difference.
Should I Take Fiber Supplements After Bariatric Surgery?
Yes, it is often a good option to consider.
Taking a normal fiber supplement each day can help keep you regular. The use of a fiber supplement in combination with an improved diet with the food items listed above can help you reduce issues with constipation and poor bowel function.
Stay Hydrated with Water Throughout the Day
Hydration matters for a variety of reasons. Bariatric surgery patients are often asked to not drink during meals to avoid overfilling their stomachs. Drinking water between meals helps keep you hydrated and can prevent constipation from occurring or being so pronounced. Drink water throughout the day for healthy living and proper bowel function.
We Keep Our Focus on Lasting Wellness
As you can see above, we take the lives of every patient seriously after they’ve undergone a weight loss procedure. If you ever have any questions about bariatric surgery side effects or other issues after a weight loss surgery is performed, don’t hesitate to ask us for advice and wellness tips.
Contact the Team at Tijuana Bariatrics
For more information about your diet after weight loss surgery and other matters related to your overall wellness and health, be sure to contact our team of bariatric surgery specialists today. The team at Tijuana Bariatrics is here to help you achieve your health and weight loss goals.
