People who undergo bariatric surgery experience not only a huge physical change, but also a psychological one. The types of food you can eat, the quantity of food you can eat and your frequency of eating all change after surgery. Most physicians will require you to follow up with a dietitian before and after surgery to ensure you meet all your nutrient needs.
Vitamin Deficiency
Your small intestine is a major organ that absorbs vitamins, but because a portion of it is bypassed after bariatric surgery, obtaining all the nutrients needed from food alone is a difficult task. Because of this, one of the most common side effects of gastric bypass surgery is vitamin deficiency. This is also one of the most serious side effects if not treated appropriately. In addition to regular blood checks, your doctor may also prescribe vitamin supplements including a chewable multivitamin, calcium, vitamin B-12, protein and iron.
Dumping Syndrome
With a name like "dumping syndrome," it is no wonder this side effect is very unpleasant. A result from eating too much sugar or carbohydrate, or from eating and drinking at the same time, dumping syndrome occurs when the contents in the stomach move too quickly, or "dump," into the small intestine. It produces symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, blurred vision, sweating, and/or rapid pulse.
Gastrointestinal Changes
Because the amount of food you eat during the day is most likely a drastic decrease from your diet prior to the surgery, constipation is a common symptom. The best ways to counteract constipation is to be as physically active as medically possible and drink plenty of water in small amounts but frequently throughout the day. If necessary, the use of laxatives approved by your doctor may also help. In addition to constipation, many people who have had gastric bypass notice intolerance to certain foods. Your favorite food prior to surgery may cause nausea, vomiting or the sensation of getting "stuck" in your throat after having the surgery. Keeping a food diary may help you better understand which foods you tolerate better than others. These intolerances usually improve over time, but some people are unable to eat certain foods even years after surgery.
Dehydration
Most bariatric doctors and dietitians will recommend not eating and drinking at the same time. A general rule of thumb is to wait 30 minutes after drinking before you eat, and then wait another 30 minutes after eating before you can drink again. This recommendation, coupled with taking only a couple ounces of fluid at one time, can lead to dehydration. By sipping small amounts of calorie-free, non-carbonated beverages throughout the day, you can meet the goal of about 1.5 total liters, or 48 ounces, of fluids daily.
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