Bariatric Bits

Your tastes may change after bariatric surgery. Things you found to be delicious before surgery might now be downright disgusting. Is there something wrong with you? No! Once you have removed the ultra-processed foods and drinks from your body, you taste the chemicals, sodium, and artificial flavorings the next time you try them. The best way I can put it is that your taste buds were used to the bad stuff after years and years of eating or drinking it. Now, you’re experiencing what it REALLY tastes like. Yuck!

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The insurance process can be frustrating and can take up to six months from the day you decide to have bariatric surgery. You have to jump several hurdles, but you'll get there. Most importantly, give us a call to verify your insurance benefits, and then call your insurance company to be 100% certain that you are covered. Of course, you can always pay cash for your procedure as well. From there, we can start the bariatric journey together.

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Constipation is standard after bariatric surgery. For one, the anesthesia used to put you to sleep can cause constipation, and patients may be prescribed a mild laxative like Colace early after surgery. Gastric sleeve patients are particularly prone to constipation because they typically do not eat any fibrous foods in the first several weeks after surgery. How do you make sure constipation doesn't ruin your day? First, you can take a water-soluble fiber supplement twice a day. Be mindful that these can cause bloating and gas discomfort if taken too often. Also, be sure you are hydrating correctly, as dehydration is a risk factor for constipation. And a tip. While laxatives can help you with bowel movements, overuse can be problematic. Only use them as necessary and directed by your doctor. Lastly, don’t hesitate to call our office if you are severely constipated.

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Vitamins are critical after your bariatric procedure. You will take a daily multivitamin for the rest of your life, and you may have to supplement with specific vitamins and minerals if we find a deficiency. Patients who undergo a duodenal switch or a gastric bypass will require more vitamin supplementation than the gastric sleeve. That said, ensure you stay on your vitamin regimen, as deficiencies can cause serious lifestyle impediments and, in some cases, can be dangerous.

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The two-week pre-op liver shrink diet is essential. Yes, it's not all that fun, but it offers two significant benefits. First, it shrinks your liver, so we have more space to work on the stomach during a laparoscopic procedure. Second, it gives you a head start on the postoperative diet. Both are important for the long-term safety and effectiveness of the procedure. Don't cheat on your two-week preop diet!

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Plateaus are an unavoidable part of the postoperative bariatric surgery process. A plateau does not mean you failed. To get past it, try changing the foods you’re eating and working out different muscles. Remember, muscle is denser than fat and therefore weighs more. Early in your new strength training program, your weight loss will slow, or you may even gain some weight. This is perfectly normal, and you should not use the weight on the scale as your only measure of success. Look at your waistline, results from blood tests, arm size, and thigh size as alternate measures of your victories. You will be pleasantly surprised!

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