How the Digestive System Changes After Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing option for people who want to lose a large amount of weight. However, it can also cause major changes to the digestive system. Learning about these changes and potential side effects of weight-loss surgery can help you get ready for your procedure and life after it.
What Is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is designed to help you lose weight by making changes to your digestive system. The most common types of bariatric surgery include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric banding. They are meant to reduce stomach size or bypass the intestines to limit the amount of food and nutrients you consume.
Types of bariatric surgery
Gastric bypass creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connects it directly to the small intestine. This bypasses a large part of the stomach and a portion of the intestines.
Sleeve gastrectomy removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a tube-like structure. This significantly reduces the stomach’s capacity.
Gastric revision is a surgical intervention meant to modify or repair a previous bariatric surgery. It resizes the stomach pouch, adjusts the gastric band or changes one type of bariatric surgery to another one.
Adjustable gastric banding places an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. The band can be adjusted to control food intake.
Hiatal hernia surgery aims to repair a hiatal hernia. This condition occurs when a part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Symptoms include heartburn, chest pain and difficulty swallowing. The procedure aims to repair the hernia by pulling the stomach back into place and tightening the diaphragm opening.
Digestive changes after bariatric surgery
Bariatric surgery changes how your body digests food and absorbs nutrients. It’s important to know about these changes if you’re thinking about having weight-loss surgery.
Reduced stomach size
One of the most immediate changes after bariatric surgery is the reduced size of the stomach. A smaller stomach means you can eat less food at one time, which helps in reducing calorie intake. This is the goal of gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy procedures.
Altered digestion and absorption
In surgeries like gastric bypass, the food bypasses a portion of the stomach and small intestine. This limits the amount of food you can eat and reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients. This can help weight loss, but it needs to be watched carefully to make sure you are getting enough nutrients.
Long-Term Digestive Changes
Weight-loss surgery can cause lasting changes to your digestive system. This means that your gut hormones, gut bacteria and how your body absorbs nutrients can change.
Changes in gut hormones
Bariatric surgery affects the hormones that control hunger and appetite. For example, levels of ghrelin, the “hunger hormone,” are significantly reduced after these procedures. This can help you control your appetite and keep the weight off after surgery.
Altered gut bacteria
The composition of gut bacteria changes after bariatric surgery. These changes can affect weight loss, metabolism and mood. A healthy balance of gut bacteria is good for overall health.
Nutrient absorption issues
Some bariatric surgeries involve bypassing parts of the digestion tract. This can cause you to not absorb enough nutrients. Common deficiencies include vitamins B12, D and iron. Many people take supplements to make up for these deficiencies.
Common Digestive Problems After Bariatric Surgery
Weight loss surgery can change your life, but it also changes how your stomach works. Knowing about these changes and side effects can help you get ready for surgery and recovery.
Dumping syndrome
Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. This is most common in gastric bypass patients.
Constipation
Reduced food intake and changes in diet can lead to constipation. Drinking plenty of water and consuming high-fiber foods can help alleviate this issue.
Gallstones
Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstones. Doctors sometimes prescribe medication to dissolve gallstones. They may also recommend the removal of the gallbladder.
Managing Digestive Side Effects
After bariatric surgery, there are things you can do to manage digestive side effects. This includes changing your diet, keeping track of your health, taking supplements and drinking enough water. These steps can help you heal faster and improve your health.
Dietary adjustments
Post-surgery, dietary changes are essential. Patients are usually told to start with a liquid diet, progress to soft foods and eventually solid foods. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help you manage symptoms like dumping syndrome.
Regular monitoring
Follow-up appointments help make sure your nutrient levels and overall health are good. Blood tests can help identify any deficiencies early. This allows for timely intervention.
Supplements
You may need vitamins and supplements due to lack of nutrients. Commonly recommended supplements include multi-vitamins, calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B12.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is vital for preventing constipation and maintaining overall health. You should aim to drink at least 64 ounces of water daily. You should avoid drinking large amounts of liquid with meals to prevent overfilling the small stomach pouch.
Psychological Changes
After weight loss surgery, you may feel different emotionally. It can affect how you feel about yourself, your relationships and your body image.
Emotional well-being
Weight-loss surgery can have a profound impact on your emotional well-being. It can improve your self-esteem and quality of life. Some patients may struggle with body image issues or emotional eating.
Support systems
A strong support system can make a huge difference in your weight-loss journey. Support groups, counseling and regular check-ins can be good for your emotional and mental health.
Body image concerns
You may experience body image concerns after bariatric surgery. Major weight loss can lead to loose skin, which may affect your self-confidence. Counseling or support groups can help you cope with these changes.
Relationship changes
Weight-loss surgery can have an impact on your relationships with family and friends. Some people may receive more attention or support, while others may face jealousy or resentment. Open communication and support from loved ones can make a huge difference at this time.
Achieve a Healthier You
It is never too late to take the first step toward improving your health, happiness and self-image. The Surgical Weight Control Center in Las Vegas is here to help you achieve the weight and lifestyle you have always wanted. We offer a variety of different bariatric procedures and free weight-loss seminars and support groups. Call us today at 702-313-8446 to start your weight-loss journey or register for a seminar.