Nutrition After Bariatric Surgery

It is possible to divide obesity treatment into two as surgical and medical.

Obesity Surgical Treatment

It is the general name of surgical procedures performed to accelerate weight loss and improve obesity-related health problems. Bariatric surgery is performed for people with morbid obesity (body mass index over 40 kg/m²) or overweight (body mass index over 35 kg/m²) to lose weight. In addition, it can be considered as a surgical treatment option in individuals with obesity-related health problems.

Obesity surgery can be performed by various methods.

Here are some commonly used bariatric surgery procedures:

 -  Gastric Bypass: In this procedure, a portion of the stomach is divided to create a smaller stomach pouch. This new stomach pouch is then attached to a section of the small intestine. Gastric bypass aims to reduce stomach volume and reduce nutrient absorption and capacity to eat less.

 -  Sleeve Gastrectomy: In this procedure, most of the stomach is cut and remains in the form of a long, narrow tube. While the stomach volume decreases, it reduces the appetite and the amount of eating. At the same time, the production of the hunger hormone ghrelin decreases.

 -  Gastric Band: In this procedure, a silicone ring (band) is placed on the upper part of the stomach. This ring divides the stomach into two parts and creates a smaller upper stomach pouch. The ring can be tightened and loosened via an adjustable port, thereby controlling the eating capacity and nutrient absorption.

 -  Biliopancreatic Diverter (BPD): In this procedure, part of the stomach is removed and the small intestines are rerouted. The absorption of nutrients is reduced and therefore weight loss is achieved. BPD can be used in more severe cases of obesity and in individuals with obesity-related diabetes.

Bariatric surgery can help improve obesity-related health problems while accelerating weight loss. However, although bariatric surgery is a solution, it requires maintenance of important factors such as lifestyle changes, diet and regular exercise.

Obesity Medical Treatment

It is a set of methods used to achieve weight loss and healthy lifestyle changes in overweight or obese individuals. Obesity medical treatment can include many different components and often requires a multidisciplinary approach.

Here are some components of obesity medical treatment:

 -  Nutritional Therapy: Medical treatment of obesity usually begins with nutrition counseling and dietitian guidance. A nutritionist teaches healthy eating principles and supports weight loss by creating an individualized nutrition plan. This plan may include strategies such as a low-calorie diet, portion control, choosing healthy foods, and regular meal times.

 -  Exercise Therapy: Physical activity is an important component of obesity medical treatment. Experts encourage regular exercise by creating exercise programs suitable for the individual. Different types of exercise, such as cardio exercises, resistance training and flexibility exercises, support weight loss, increase muscle mass and speed up metabolism.

 -  Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapy aims to change bad habits associated with obesity and maintain healthy lifestyle choices. This treatment offers strategies to increase one's motivation, deal with low self-esteem, control eating habits, and deal with stress. Methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and support groups can be used.

 -  Drug Treatment: Sometimes drugs can be used in the medical treatment of obesity. Medication includes medications prescribed to support weight loss and control appetite. These medications often help manage obesity, but they may not be suitable for everyone. Medication should only be used when directed and monitored by a doctor.

 -  Surgical Support: Medical treatment of obesity may also include surgical options in some cases. Surgical methods are used to support weight loss and alleviate obesity-related health problems in people with morbid obesity. These surgical procedures may include different techniques such as gastric bypass, gastric banding, or sleeve gastrectomy. Surgical treatment is usually considered when other methods are ineffective or in cases of severe obesity.

Medical treatment; exercise, behavioral therapy, medication and their combination. The first four require a good will, a good Endocrinology and Metabolism Specialist, a good dietitian. In order for obesity treatment to be successful, the patient must agree to continue medical nutrition therapy and exercise therapy in addition to drug therapy, and come to regular check-ups. Despite all these treatment options, in patients who remain Morbid Obese, surgery is performed with the closed method, which is increasingly preferred today.

Patients who applied to us for surgery have two common features. These; They are patients who have dieted many times, lost good amounts of weight with diet, but then regained more and are tired of dieting. For this reason, it is very important to follow the diet and have a balanced diet after the surgery.

What should be considered in nutrition after obesity surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a set of surgical procedures performed to help overweight or obese individuals lose weight. Nutrition after this surgery is of great importance for the success of the operation and the maintenance of weight loss.

Here are some points to consider in nutrition after bariatric surgery:

 -  Doctor and dietitian follow-up: After obesity surgery, you should be followed regularly by a doctor and dietitian. They will help you create a nutrition plan that fits your nutritional needs and weight loss goals.

 -  Small portions and slow eating: After bariatric surgery where your stomach is reduced, it is important to consume smaller portions. Take care to eat your food slowly and chew it well. This helps food digest better.

 -  Fluid intake: Fluid intake is very important after bariatric surgery. Drinking enough water is important to keep the body hydrated and facilitate digestion. However, fluid consumption may be restricted for a certain period of time after surgery. Follow your doctor's recommendations and follow their instructions on fluid consumption.

 -  Protein intake: It is important to get enough protein after bariatric surgery. Proteins help repair tissues, prevent muscle loss and provide a feeling of satiety. Try to include protein-rich foods such as meat, chicken, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes and soy in your diet.

 -  Vitamin and mineral supplementation: After obesity surgery, the absorption of some vitamins and minerals in the body may decrease. Therefore, it is important to take vitamin and mineral supplements as prescribed by your doctor. Supplements such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, B vitamins and folic acid are often recommended.

 -  Healthy diet: It is important to create a healthy eating plan after bariatric surgery. Regular physical activity combined with a balanced diet will help you lose weight and maintain your health. It is important to avoid fatty, processed and sugary foods and to choose foods such as fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats.

Nutrition after bariatric surgery may vary depending on your individual needs and type of surgery. Therefore, it is important to follow the recommendations of your surgical team and to follow up regularly.