We don’t think you will have all of these common complaints after gastric bypass surgery, but if you do, we want you to know how to fix them. It’s a good idea to write down anything strange that happens and what you did before and after it.
Dizziness, Headaches, Lightheadedness, Dark Urine (Signs of Dehydration)
Take in electrolyte-containing liquids regularly (like Propel Zero, G2, Powerade Zero).
Salt should be added to your food.
Take some salted bouillon or soup broth to drink.
If you are unable to regain control of your fluid intake, you should call the number listed for the Physician’s Assistant.
Constipation Short-term Solutions
Boost the amount of fluids you consume, with a daily goal of 64 ounces.
You might try using a laxative like Milk of Magnesia or Miralax, and you could take a stool softener up to three times every day.
Psyllium is a natural soluble fibre that you might try.
Constipation Long-term Solutions
Boost the amount of fluids you consume, with a daily goal of 64 ounces.
Raise the amount of fibre in your diet:
If your diet stage allows for it, try to eat more fruits, vegetables, and grains that are whole.
2. If you are unable to increase the amount of fibre that you consume via your diet, you might consider taking a fibre supplement like Benefiber or Metamucil.
3. Increasing the amount of fibre in your diet should be done methodically and gradually. Beginning with a little quantity, such as one serving of a fibre supplement or one additional serving of food that contains fibre, is a good place to start. Maintain this dosage for one to two weeks before determining whether an increase is necessary.
Maintain an active lifestyle.
Proceed with taking a stool softener on an as-needed basis.
Diarrhea
Reduce or eliminate the foods you eat that contain lactose.
After surgery, some people develop an intolerance to actose.
Chew your food deeply and savour every bite.
It is not recommended to consume fluids while eating.
Steer clear of meals that are heavy in sugar, high in fat, and high in spice.
quantity of items that are sugar-free (like sugar-free candies). These goods may include sugar alcohols, which are artificial sweeteners with names ending in the letter ol and include malitol, sorbitol, xylitol, and others. Sugar alcohols have been linked to diarrhoea in some people.
Reduce the amount of caffeine you consume.
Consider taking a probiotic supplement; for recommendations, talk to your dietitian.
Psyllium is a natural soluble fiber that you could try.
Nausea and/or Vomiting
Take note of the patterns in your eating habits and pay attention to them. Take small bites, chew thoroughly, and pause after each bite.
At the first sign of fullness, which might feel like pressure in your upper chest, you should stop eating and drinking immediately.
Be sure to stay hydrated. Drink at least 48-64 ounces of fluids.
Keep foods tender and moist.
Find out if you have lactose intolerance because it could affect your health.
It’s best not to consume food and liquids at the same time.
If these suggestions do not work, or you vomit bright red or dark brown liquid, please call the PA line or your surgeon’s office.
Bloating/Gas/Cramping
Limit or avoid foods with lactose. Lactose intolerance can occur after surgery.
Limit or avoid sugar alcohols (artificial sweeteners that end with col such as malitol, sorbitol, Xylitol, etc.).
Avoid carbonated beverages.
If drinking through a straw causes these problems, avoid using one.
Heartburn
Every person has different food and beverage triggers of heartburn. Make a list of the ones that trigger heartburn for you and avoid them.
Take your prescribed heartburn medication.
Tune into your eating behaviors. Take small bites, chew thoroughly and pause after each bite.
Avoid lying down for 3-4 hours after eating.
Hair Loss
al in the first six months after surgery and will usually resolve on its own. If hair loss continues past six months, it may be related to nutrition.
Meet your protein goal of 60-70 grams daily.
Take your multivitamins daily – you should be getting 200% of iron, zinc, and biotin.
