Common Questions About Nutrition After Gastric Bypass Surgery

The typical gastric bypass weight loss program results in about 60 to seventy percent weight loss over a year after the surgical procedure. This can be accomplished in a matter of months, not years like many prior procedures. Patients who undergo the operation are instructed to watch their caloric intake and gradually reduce them. It is also advised that patients stay away from foods high in fat and cholesterol, especially trans fats. Most physicians also advise dieters to eat light meats and eliminate or at least partially replace saturated fats in their diets.

To date, the medical community recommends a gastric bypass weight loss treatment for those who cannot lose weight through standard diet and exercise plans. After the surgery, patients remain on a lifelong post-operative exercise plan. Those who have opted for this surgery remain slim for the rest of their lives. It is recommended that a patient does not start any new exercise plan during the first six months after surgery. Patients should also not engage in strenuous exercise after the procedure.

How long does it take to see results? About three months is the average time it takes to shed one to two pounds after having a gastric bypass. One pound is the equivalent of about sixty pounds. About half of the weight lost comes from the remaining body fat. It takes about a year to lose one to two pounds per month. Losing one to two pounds per week is considered to be ideal.

What are the risks? One of the major risks associated with this type of weight-reduction surgery is that there is an increased risk of gallstones, cancers of the esophagus and liver, and hernia. There is also a greater chance of infection at the site of the incision. In addition, patients may experience symptoms such as diarrhea, heartburn, constipation and belching. However, these symptoms usually go away on their own within a few days.

How do you Prepare for Gastric Bypass Weight Loss? If you are thinking about gastric bypass weight loss surgery, then the first month after the operation will be your first month in which you will lose the desired amount of weight. The end result of this gastric bypass surgery is the same as if you had an actual gastric bypass surgery. You will be able to eat small amounts of food and will lose weight gradually.

How can you stay on your gastric bypass weight loss timeline? Your doctor will tell you how long you should go on with this diet. Usually, it takes at least three months to reach your target weight. If you follow the rules that your doctor gives you, then your weight will be stable at the end of the three months. This is because it takes time for your body to heal and adjust to the new diet.

Do I still need to take nutrition supplements? Your doctor will give you a list of nutrition supplements that you will have to continue to take for the three months after your gastric bypass surgery. He will tell you if continued use of the nutrition supplements is necessary and what percentage of your calories has to come from these nutrition supplements in order for you to reach your goal weight.

Can I continue to eat foods that I enjoy for the rest of my life? It is possible to completely change your lifestyle after undergoing gastric bypass surgery. However, if you smoke, or have any kind of medical condition that requires you to take medication on a regular basis, you may need to give up the things you love in order to be healthy. For example, you will have to give up any type of smoking in order to stay healthy, and you may need to increase your daily vitamin and nutrient intake in order to reach your goals.