The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) states that bariatric surgeries can reduce the risk of death by 30-50 percent in obese people. One of these procedures is gastric bypass surgery, which can help people lose weight by rerouting the digestive system.
During the surgery, the stomach is divided into a small upper pouch and a larger lower section. The small intestine is then attached to the upper pouch, bypassing the lower stomach and part of the small intestine. It allows food to bypass most of the stomach and upper intestine, which absorb calories and nutrients.
The recovery time after gastric bypass surgery is typically two to four weeks. During this time, it’s essential to follow a strict diet to heal correctly and avoid complications.
Read more: Bariatric Surgery Recovery Time: Back to Work After Bariatric Surgery.
Here are some foods to avoid post-surgery.
1) Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks like soda, juice, and sports drinks can cause several problems for people who have had gastric bypass surgery. First, they can cause dumping syndrome, when food and liquids “dump” into the small intestine too quickly. It can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping. Second, sugary drinks can cause weight gain. And finally, they can worsen diabetes.
So, it’s important to avoid sugary drinks after your surgery. Instead, focus on drinking water, unsweetened tea, and other sugar-free beverages.
2) Alcohol
Alcohol contains many calories and can cause dehydration, leading to surgery complications. It is better to avoid alcohol for at least the first six months after surgery.
Additionally, alcohol can interfere with the absorption of specific vitamins and minerals, which are essential for healing and recovery.
3) Fried Foods
After a gastric bypass, it’s important to avoid fried foods. They are high in fat and calories, leading to weight gain. Fried foods can be difficult to digest, which can cause discomfort and indigestion, where food moves too quickly through the small intestine.
You may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after eating fried foods like beef, French fries, potato chips, and others. Instead, opt for baked or grilled foods. These are lower in fat and calories and will be easier on your stomach.
4) Dairy Products
Dairy items like cheese, ice cream, and milk can be difficult to digest after having gastric bypass surgery. The lactose in dairy products can cause stomach pain, bloating, and diarrhea. If you eat dairy, choose lactose-free options or take a lactase supplement with your meal.
It’s also important to avoid high-fat dairy products, like whole milk, heavy cream, and butter. Such foods can increase the risk of developing obesity and diabetes.
Hospital BC is one of the best places to under a gastric bypass in Mexico. Our team of highly skilled professionals will make sure you’re comfortable and safe throughout the entire process. We will guide you through every step, from pre-op to post-op.