Gastric sleeve surgery has provided life altering results to thousands of patients, however, it’s not as easy as it looks. After surgery, you need to readjust to a completely different stomach by changing your eating habits. Not only this, but you’ll also need to deal with other side-effects too.
For those who don’t know what gastric sleeve surgery entails, it involves removing part of the stomach and reconstructing a much smaller “sleeve” stomach. The remaining parts are joined with surgical staples. It’s an increasingly popular weight loss surgery that is growing in demand each year exponentially.
If you’re considering, or about to undergo, a gastric sleeve surgery, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s what you can expect in the months following your operation…
Be Vigorous with Your New Eating Plan
In the first weeks after your operation, you’ll need to stick to a liquid diet to avoid any complications such as bowel obstruction or gastric leakage. You should also avoid substances such as carbonated drinks and caffeine.
Since you will have been following a strict diet before your operation, it’s normal if you miss your old eating habits. However, you need to remain vigorous with your new diet and help your body recover to its full potential. You’ll probably be on a liquid only diet for a while, so take a look at these high protein pureed food recipes to get you inspired.
Take Your Time Before Getting Back to Normal Life
After the procedure, you need to be patient and give your body a minimum of four to six weeks of complete rest. Understandably, you’ll be eager to get back to your normal life, however, you may not have the energy levels to do so.
Given that you are now operating with a much smaller stomach, you won’t have the ability to consume as many calories as you used to. Many patients also suffer from vitamin and nutrient deficiencies. This means less energy levels for your body to operate with. Take it easy, and slowly work your way towards your previous lifestyle.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
If you feel like you are struggling more than you expected, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. Never suffer in silence. Whether you need medical or psychological assistance, it’s best to ask for the help you need. There are plenty of support groups that can put you into contact with others who are in a similar situation. Similarly, there are many counsellors who specialise in dealing with gastric sleeve surgery patients.
Adapting to life after any major surgery can be extremely difficult, but even more so when the surgery affects your digestive system. Many people believe that once they shed the extra pounds, all their problems will simply disappear. However, it’s not the easy way out. Often, it’s the only solution left. Just remember to remain patient and understand that both your mind and body will need to adapt to a new way of living.