Your body will undergo a variety of changes in the weeks and months following weight loss surgery. While surgery plays a big role in your weight-loss journey, how you approach nutrition and exercise can make all the difference in how much weight you lose and how long you are able to keep it off. Not only can improper diet affect your weight loss negatively, but it can also cause a number of unpleasant physical symptoms that may put you at risk for further complications following surgery. Here are a few risks associated with a poor diet after weight-loss surgery.
Weight gain
Patients can expect to see a drastic drop in weight in the weeks following bariatric surgery. However, with failure to follow the bariatric diet, it is possible – and likely – patients might gain the weight back.
Dehydration
Proper hydration is crucial in order to maintain optimal health following weight-loss surgery. Unfortunately, the risk of dehydration increases after weight-loss surgery as patients are advised against drinking fluids with meals. Weight-loss surgery patients should sip 64 ounces of water throughout the day to remain healthy and hydrated.
Constipation
Regular digestion following weight-loss surgery can take time. A lack of fiber, fluid, and exercise can cause constipation. Make sure you are moving your body and incorporating the right amount of fiber and water into your diet to ensure regular digestion as you navigate the weeks and months after weight-loss surgery.
Dumping syndrome
This unpleasant condition happens when you ingest too much food too quickly. It can cause symptoms like vomiting, nausea, sweating, dizziness, and diarrhea. Chew your food slowly and avoid eating foods jampacked with fat and sugar to avoid dumping syndrome and other uncomfortable digestive symptoms.
You are not alone after weight-loss surgery. At Valley Surgical RGV, we work closely with patients to ensure they follow a proper diet and exercise regimen following their procedure. For questions about the bariatric diet and how to maintain weight loss, contact our office.
