Having a weight loss surgery may be one of the most important decisions a person has to make throughout their lives, so if you are wondering what it is or what are its risks and benefits, read on.
How Does Weight Loss Surgery Work?
There are several types of bariatric surgeries, not just one,(gastric bypass, sleeve surgery…) and they work either by limiting the quantity of food that your stomach can hold (thus making you eat less and lose weight), by preventing your digestive system from absorbing some of the nutrients and calories in the food you eat, or through a combination of both methods.
To be a candidate for weight loss surgery, you need to have a BMI of 40 or more. People with a BMI of 30-40 who suffer from health conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or asthma are also eligible for bariatric surgeries.
Most surgeries are laparoscopic, which means the surgeon makes small incisions, and recovery is typically short. You will spend 2-3 days in the hospital and can resume normal activities in 3 to 5 weeks.
How Much Weight Will You Lose?
Your weight loss depends on your starting weight and the type of surgery you undergo. On average, people lose up to 60% of their excess weight. However, results vary, and it’s important to follow a dedicated post-surgery diet plan to achieve optimal results.
What Are the Possible Side Effects?
Most people who undergo weight loss surgery don’t experience serious complications. However, some common side effects include constipation, gallstones, and wound infections. More serious side effects may include bleeding in the stool, leaks in the new connections made during the surgery, or blood clots in the lungs.
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of these side effects. Some people also experience nausea, faintness, sweating, and diarrhea after eating, which are symptoms of Dumping Syndrome, a condition where food and drink move too quickly through the small intestine into the bowel.
It is important to follow up with a dietitian who is an expert in post-bariatric surgery diet programs to help you avoid these symptoms. Connect with me or check our dedicated program for post-bariatric surgery here
Life After Surgery and Dietetic Follow-Up
For weight loss surgery to be effective and for you to achieve the best results, a lot of commitment and certain lifestyle changes are required. Following a specific weight loss surgery diet plan is essential to avoid complications, ensure proper healing, and optimize your weight loss.
As one of the most reputed clinical dietitians in Dubai, I specialize in nutrition for pre-and post-bariatric surgery and can guide you through your weight loss journey.
Find below some general tips to follow after your gastric bypass or sleeve surgery:
1-In the first few weeks, you will be on a liquid diet, after which soft then solid food can be gradually reintroduced. As the founder of Lean Nation, I provide Protifast, the best protein products from France to ensure that most of your weight loss is from fat while protecting your muscle mass.You can find on this website Lean Nation (leanation.com) some options for healthy protein meals and snacks that can accommodate your difficult liquid and soft diet phases.
2- Expect to eat smaller portions and fewer calories.
3-It may become harder for your body to absorb certain nutrients such as iron, calcium, folate, and vitamins D and B12. Therefore, following a healthy diet plan and taking supplements to prevent deficiencies and conditions like osteoporosis and anemia is important.
4- Don’t forget to exercise; it helps you keep the weight off and contributes to your overall health.
