Constipation is not very common after classical gastric bypass or mini gastric bypass surgery. Constipation among obesity surgeries is generally seen after sleeve gastrectomy surgery. The cause of constipation is the change in diet content after surgery. Small portions and giving priority to liquids with high protein content, not taking enough fiber foods, not drinking enough water, not doing exercise are among the reasons that trigger constipation. In addition, supplements (iron, calcium, etc.) taken after sleeve gastrectomy also trigger constipation. Constipation disappears as the variety of foods eaten after a certain period of gastric reduction surgery increases and bowel movements return to normal. Although this period is rare, it may take up to 6 months in some patients.
After sleeve gastrectomy, the only thing focused on in terms of nutrition is mostly protein intake. Sometimes it is overlooked whether patients are getting enough fiber or not. The fact that there is a certain amount of fiber content in the foods we eat prevents constipation by drawing water into the stool, and fiber is very important for a healthy intestinal flora. Having a certain amount of fiber in the foods we eat helps us lose weight by reducing cholesterol absorption as well as increasing blood sugar in a balanced way, removing toxins. If we have difficulty in getting enough fiber from food after sleeve gastrectomy surgery, taking them from outside in the form of supplements such as medicine may be a solution. It should not be forgotten that in order to prevent constipation, it is not only enough to get enough fiber, but we also need to drink enough water.
Before surgery, perhaps most of us were people who only drank water when we were thirsty. When our body gave us the warning that we were very thirsty, we could drink 1-2 glasses of water at once. It is not very possible, especially in the first year after sleeve gastrectomy surgery. Even if we wanted to, we cannot drink a glass of water all at once, so we have to gain the habit of drinking water regularly. In order not to be dehydrated and not to feel tired and to avoid constipation problems. It should also be remembered that beverages such as coffee and tea can never replace water. Water should be drunk as water.
The sooner you start physical activity after surgery, the better you will lose weight and be protected from constipation. Because physical activity increases blood circulation and accelerates bowel movements. If you say you're losing weight anyway and don't move, especially in the early period after stomach reduction surgery, you will not be able to lose weight well and your risk of constipation will increase.
Despite these precautions, some drugs that prevent constipation can be used in patients who still suffer from constipation after gastric reduction surgery. Duphalak, Osmolak, Magnezi calsine are some of these drugs. You should definitely take these drugs, called laxatives, in consultation with your doctor. Because continuous use of this group of drugs can lead to intestinal laziness.
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