Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing event, but it also brings about challenges that patients must adapt to for effective results. One such challenge is the possibility of experiencing nausea and vomiting post-surgery. This article covers tips and techniques to minimize this discomfort, ensuring a smoother recovery process for individuals who undergo bariatric surgery.

Avoid Overeating

After undergoing weight loss surgery, the size of the stomach is significantly reduced, leading to a limited capacity for food intake. Overeating can result in nausea and vomiting. It is crucial to follow the recommended portion sizes provided by your healthcare professional throughout the day rather than consuming larger quantities of food at once.

Food To Avoid

Follow the diet plan of the surgeon on what foods to avoid after surgery. Additionally, eating or drinking too quickly or consuming carbonated beverages during meals may also lead to feelings of nausea and vomiting. So, it is important to take your time and sip on beverages between meals rather than drinking them all at once.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water in large amounts at once or immediately before, during, or after a meal can lead to nausea and vomiting. Try to sip water slowly and separate it from meals by at least 30 minutes. This strategy helps the stomach digest the food more effectively and reduces the chances of discomfort.

Proper Chewing of Food

Thorough chewing is a vital aspect of digestion. For patients who have had bariatric surgery, this becomes even more important to avoid any complications. By chewing food slowly and thoroughly, the stomach can break down and process the food more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of nausea and vomiting.

Take Vitamins Without Food

While it may be tempting to take vitamins alongside a meal, doing so could exacerbate nausea and vomiting. To reduce discomfort, consider taking your vitamins and supplements at least 30 minutes before or after a meal. Consult with your healthcare professional to determine the best schedule for vitamin intake post-surgery.

Avoid Lying Down Too Quickly

It is important to wait at least 30 minutes after eating before lying down. Lying down too soon can cause food to move more slowly through the digestive system and can lead to nausea and vomiting.

To Summarize

Nausea and vomiting can be uncomfortable side effects of bariatric surgery. To reduce the likelihood of experiencing these symptoms, it is important to avoid overeating, stay hydrated, chew food thoroughly, take vitamins without food, and wait for at least 30 minutes after eating before lying down. Following these simple tips can help ensure a smoother recovery. Additionally, if you are planning to undergo bariatric surgery in Maryland, choose a qualified healthcare professional to get the best care and results. With the right help and adherence to post-operative diet and lifestyle guidelines, you can look forward to a healthy recovery.