Sleeve gastrectomy surgery is an effective method in the fight against obesity. However, the success of the surgery is directly related to how the postoperative period is managed. Lifestyle changes, diet plans and physical activity after surgery are of great importance for permanent weight loss. In this article, we will discuss in detail the things to be considered after sleeve gastrectomy surgery.
Postoperative Nutrition Process
Since your stomach volume shrinks after sleeve gastrectomy, your eating habits will undergo a radical change. In the first days, only liquid foods are consumed, while in the following weeks, puree and soft foods are switched to. As recommended by your dietician, you should follow a protein-weighted and balanced nutrition programme by controlling your portions.
Feeding Process Stages:
- First Week: Only clear liquids are consumed.
- 2-4. Weeks: Soup, yoghurt and pureed foods.
- From the 5th week onwards: Gradual transition to normal food.
Eating fast can damage the stomach and cause problems such as nausea. Therefore, it is important to consume your meals slowly and chew them thoroughly. Nutrition after obesity surgery is the most important point to be considered.
Weight Loss After Sleeve Gastrectomy
Within one year after sleeve gastrectomy, approximately 50-70% of the excess weight (the difference between the initial weight and the ideal weight) is lost. The fastest weight loss is experienced in the first 6 months and 30-50% of the excess weight is lost in this period. Between 6-12 months, weight loss slows down but continues. Weight loss may vary according to the person's initial weight and compliance with lifestyle changes.
Vitamin Support After Gastric Sleeve Gastrectomy
Changes in eating habits and reduction in stomach volume after sleeve gastrectomy may cause some vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Therefore, regular vitamin support is of great importance in the postoperative period. So which vitamins and minerals are needed after sleeve gastrectomy surgery?
- Vitamin B12: After sleeve gastrectomy surgery, a decrease in stomach acid occurs and this may make it difficult to absorb vitamin B12. In case of deficiency, low energy, weakness and nervous system problems may be observed. According to the doctor's recommendation, it can be administered as oral supplements or injections.
- Iron: Iron deficiency is common, especially in women. Iron supplements reduce the risk of anaemia after surgery. It is recommended to be taken with vitamin C to increase iron absorption.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: Calcium and vitamin D supplements should be taken to maintain bone health after sleeve gastrectomy. Calcium citrate form is generally preferred because this form is not dependent on stomach acid.
- Multivitamin: A daily multivitamin provides essential vitamins and minerals needed by the body after surgery. Multivitamins in chewable or liquid form are preferred to facilitate absorption.
- Collagen: The use of collagen supplements after sleeve gastrectomy may be recommended to increase skin elasticity, support muscle and joint health, and accelerate the healing process. Collagen is one of the basic proteins found in the body and provides the structural integrity of the skin, muscles, bones, tendons and connective tissue.
These supplements must be taken with a doctor's recommendation. Low vitamin levels should be determined with blood tests at regular doctor controls.
Postoperative Exercise and Physical Activity
Heavy physical activity should be avoided for the first few weeks after surgery. However, low-paced activities such as light walks contribute to the healing process. From the third week after surgery, you can switch to more intense exercise programmes on the recommendation of your doctor.
Benefits of exercise after surgery:
- Accelerates weight loss.
- Prevents muscle loss and shapes the body.
- Increases energy levels and improves general mood.
Postoperative Lifestyle Changes
Gastric sleeve surgery is only the beginning. For long-term success, you need to completely change your lifestyle. Staying away from unhealthy snacks, paying attention to portion control and going to doctor's controls at regular intervals are critical parts of the process.
What to Avoid:
- Carbonated drinks
- Sugary and high-calorie foods
- The habit of eating fast food
Hello to a New Lifestyle
The process after sleeve gastrectomy requires discipline and determination. Surgery is a powerful tool in the weight loss journey, but the success of this journey depends on your efforts. You should step into a healthy lifestyle by adhering to the recommendations of your dietician and doctor and balance the weight loss brought by the surgery. Remember, you can always consult Op. Dr. Türker Karabuğa for your questions about your process after sleeve gastrectomy surgery.
