Obesity surgery is an effective method in the fight against excessive weight problems. However, surgery alone is not sufficient; planning and implementing postoperative eating habits correctly is of critical importance for the sustainability of weight loss and the protection of overall health.
In obesity patients evaluated by experienced teams and recommended surgical treatment options, the diet to be used is a specialized diet and should complement the patients’ treatments. After the surgical procedure, the patient is followed by the surgical team, oral intake is started, and food intake is increased under supervision. The success of the surgical procedure is directly related to the patient’s compliance during this process. Nutritional component management, which plays a very important role both in entering a metabolic breakdown process and in wound healing, is very important in the postoperative period and during the disease recovery period. Results can be achieved through strict follow-up, controls, and meetings.
Nutrition after obesity surgery both supports weight loss and reduces the side effects of surgery. Incorrect or insufficient nutrition, on the other hand, can lead to serious health problems.
İçindekiler
Effect Of Surgery On Nutrient Absorption
Postoperative period, especially in procedures such as gastric bypass, absorption of nutrients may decrease. This can cause vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Proteins, vitamins and minerals are the nutrients our body needs most. Proteins are valuable for preventing muscle loss. In particular, B12, iron, calcium and vitamin D are of critical importance.
Stages Of Nutrition After Obesity Surgery
Immediately after surgery, the stomach is quite sensitive and a liquid diet is started. This stage is necessary to support the healing process and not to strain the stomach. As the first stage, the liquid diet period is started. During this period, water, unsweetened tea, vegetable or meat broth, compote, and protein-containing liquids can be consumed. Carbonated drinks, coffee, alcohol, and high-sugar drinks are prohibited. This liquid diet period lasts 1-2 days.
As the stomach begins to heal, a transition is made to pureed foods. This period can last 2 weeks. During this process, yogurt, fruit puree, boiled vegetables, and blended soups can be consumed. At this stage, meals should be eaten slowly and chewed thoroughly.
When the stomach becomes more resilient, soft foods are introduced. This stage is applied for at least a 2-week period. Now the transition process to soft foods begins. Soft fruits such as bananas, well-cooked vegetables, eggs, fish, and boiled chicken can be consumed.
These nutrition stages may vary for each patient and their durations may also be different.
Nutrition Tips After Obesity Surgery
After obesity surgery a lifelong nutrition plan is required. This is indispensable for maintaining weight control and living a healthy life.
- Protein sources should be included in every meal (meat, fish, eggs).
- Refined sugar and white bread should be avoided.
- Vegetables and whole grains should be preferred to support the digestive system.
- Regular supplements should be taken to prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
- Support from a therapist can be sought to control the desire to eat.
Complications In Nutrition After Bariatric Surgery
After obesity surgery incorrect nutrition can cause the individual to experience different problems. After rapid consumption of sugary foods called dumping syndrome nausea, dizziness, and stomach discomfort may be seen.
Vitamin deficiencies can also lead to osteoporosis, anemia, and nervous system problems in the long term. Hair loss may occur due to insufficient vitamins.
Dehydration that is, fluid loss can also be seen after bariatric surgery due to the reduction in stomach volume. This condition is seen after all obesity surgeries. In order to prevent it, the patient needs to consume drinks in small sips, frequently. Swallowing too much at once will not be good.
Constipation may occur because fiber intake is reduced and fluid consumption is insufficient.
