Tag: Gastric Sleeve

Person Holding Toilet Paper With Hand On Stomach In Bathroom

Understanding the Causes of Diarrhea After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Written by jefftormey on August 23, 2023. Posted in Gastric Sleeve Surgery, Weight Loss Blog.

Gastric sleeve surgery, a popular weight loss procedure, offers transformative benefits to individuals striving to achieve a healthier lifestyle. However, along with the positive changes, patients often encounter a common side effect: diarrhea. This article explores the reasons behind diarrhea after gastric sleeve surgery, highlighting its normalcy post-procedure and the various contributing factors.

Is Diarrhea Normal After Weight Loss Surgery?

Experiencing diarrhea after gastric sleeve surgery might raise concerns, but it’s essential to recognize that this is a normal part of the recovery process for many patients. This side effect typically lasts for several months before gradually subsiding. The underlying causes are rooted in the body’s adjustment to significant changes, particularly in digestion and nutrient absorption. Here are the causes of diarrhea after bariatric surgery.

Diet Change

One of the primary reasons for watery diarrhea after gastric sleeve surgery is the abrupt change in dietary habits. Patients are advised to transition from their pre-surgery diet to a significantly reduced intake of solid foods. This dietary shift can lead to digestive distress as the body adapts to processing new types and quantities of nutrients.

Digestive System Dysfunction

The digestive system plays a crucial role in breaking down and absorbing nutrients from food. After gastric sleeve surgery, the stomach’s capacity is significantly reduced, and the digestive processes are altered. This adjustment phase can result in stomach pain and diarrhea after gastric bypass surgery as the body regulates its digestive functions.

High Fiber Intake

Incorporating fiber-rich foods into the post-surgery diet is essential for maintaining digestive health and promoting weight loss. However, an abrupt increase in fiber intake can overwhelm the digestive system, leading to liquid diarrhea after gastric sleeve surgery. It is advisable to introduce fiber and monitor the impact gradually.

Insufficient Water Intake

Proper hydration is vital for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing diarrhea. Patients may inadvertently experience dehydration due to the reduced stomach capacity, which can lead to diarrhea. Individuals need to prioritize adequate water consumption to support digestion and overall well-being.

Malabsorption of Nutrients

Gastric sleeve surgery alters the anatomy of the stomach, affecting the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients efficiently. This malabsorption can contribute to diarrhea, as undigested or unabsorbed nutrients can increase the stool’s water content. If you notice watery diarrhea after gastric sleeve surgery, don’t panic!

Managing Post-Surgery Diarrhea

Managing diarrhea after bariatric surgery involves gradual dietary changes, staying well-hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day, and paying attention to fiber intake. Introducing new foods slowly and monitoring how your body reacts is essential. Consulting a healthcare professional or dietitian for guidance can provide personalized strategies to ease digestive discomfort and promote a smoother recovery process.

Be Patient With Your Adapting Body

NY Bariatric is dedicated to helping patients navigate the post-surgery journey, including managing common issues such as diarrhea after gastric sleeve surgery. Experiencing diarrhea after gastric sleeve surgery is a common occurrence that stems from the body’s adjustment to significant digestion and nutrient absorption changes. While it may be concerning, understanding the contributing factors and making informed dietary and lifestyle adjustments can help individuals manage this temporary phase effectively. As the body adapts with time, post-surgery diarrhea typically diminishes, optimizing weight loss benefits. Contact us at Lenox Hill Hospital and schedule a consultation with our experts to learn more about gastric sleeve surgery in NYC.

Female Doctor Consulting A Patient At The Clinic

PCOS And Gastric Sleeve — How Can Bariatric Surgery Help Symptoms?

Written by jefftormey on July 19, 2023. Posted in Weight Loss Blog.

The path to a healthier life typically begins with dropping excess weight. Many Americans are overweight and even obese. That being said, many people turn to bariatric surgery in NY as a way to safely and consistently reduce their weight over time.

With the right weight loss procedure, diet, and exercise, you can achieve your health targets, even if you’re starting a little bit behind. That being said, let’s talk about weight loss surgery for PCOS.

Additional Reading: Can You Get Pregnant After Bariatric Surgery

What Is PCOS?

The connection between limiting PCOS via gastric sleeve and other bariatric surgery is a growing trend. Before getting into the benefits of bariatric surgery for PCOS, let’s define this term first.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder of the hormones. Up to 10% of women who are of reproductive age have this syndrome. Currently, there is no known cure for PCOS. Additionally, there is no consensus on what the right treatment is for this condition.

Symptoms Of PCOS

When getting gastric sleeve, the PCOS before and after symptoms are like night and day. Until then, symptoms of PCOS can include heavy periods, painful periods, irregular menstrual cycles, higher testosterone, metabolic syndrome, and acne.

Another symptom of PCOS is increased insulin production. If you have increased insulin, it could cause insulin resistance. This is one of the precursors to certain types of diabetes.

How To Treat PCOS

Since excess weight and insulin can contribute to diabetes and PCOS, then losing the weight can help alleviate some of these symptoms. Therefore, weight loss surgery is often recommended to help with PCOS.

Bariatric Surgery And PCOS

Bariatric surgery can help you drop excess fat and balance out your hormones once again. This may indirectly aid with your PCOS condition. In addition, you should stick to a healthy diet and exercise routine.

If you have a BMI of over 35 and are suffering from PCOS, then bariatric surgery may be the right choice for you.

Before And After Weight Loss Surgery: Observations

PCOS and bariatric surgery have a strong link in that the right operation can help you alleviate symptoms. Additionally obese mothers who could have been at higher risk for complications during their pregnancy may be able to create a healthier environment for carrying their unborn child.

Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Future

Bariatric surgery offers a transformative solution for managing symptoms of PCOS while promoting long-term health benefits. By reducing excess weight and improving hormone balance, procedures like the gastric sleeve can be instrumental in alleviating PCOS-related symptoms and enhancing overall quality of life.

If you’re struggling with PCOS and considering bariatric surgery in NY, we encourage you to take the first step toward a healthier future. To learn more about our services, including gastric sleeve, Lap-Band Surgery, and other weight loss options. Take the first step toward managing PCOS with bariatric solutions—Contact Us now!

How To Get Rid Of Gas After Gastric Bypass & Gastric Sleeve

Written by jefftormey on July 5, 2023. Posted in Weight Loss Blog.

Digestive issues like gas are a frustrating reality for many bariatric surgery patients. While weight loss is the primary goal, side effects like bloating, flatulence, and abdominal pressure can significantly impact daily comfort. Fortunately, there are proven ways to manage and even eliminate post-surgical gas issues, whether they appear immediately after surgery or years down the line.

This blog explores the causes of gas after bariatric surgery, what to watch for, and effective strategies to regain comfort and control.

Why Gas Happens After Bariatric Surgery

Gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy procedures dramatically change how your digestive system processes food. After these surgeries, many patients report experiencing gas after gastric bypass, including bloating, foul odor, and abdominal pressure. These symptoms may result from changes in gut bacteria, faster digestion, or food intolerance.

Some individuals experience excessive gas years after gastric bypass, indicating that post-op symptoms don’t always resolve with time. Factors such as diet, gut flora, and medication all influence how gas behaves in the long term.

Introducing solid food after gastric sleeve surgery too soon can strain the healing stomach and trigger discomfort or complications. Following the recommended diet phases, liquids, purees, soft foods, and finally solids, protects recovery and supports long-term success.

Common Triggers for Gas After Surgery

Gas after bariatric surgery is typically caused by a combination of food intake and digestive changes.

Dietary Offenders

Foods high in sulfur (like broccoli, cabbage, and eggs)
Sugar alcohols (found in sugar-free gum or candy)
Dairy products (if lactose intolerance develops)
Carbonated beverages, which introduce air into the stomach

These contribute to flatulence after gastric bypass and may also trigger discomfort in sleeve patients.

How You Eat Matters Too

Certain foods to avoid after bariatric surgery are best left off the menu to reduce irritation and promote steady healing. High-fat fried dishes, sugary treats, and raw fibrous vegetables are particularly difficult to digest.

Swallowing excess air during meals or eating too quickly can worsen bloating. Even healthy foods can create trapped gas after a gastric bypass if not properly chewed and digested.

Symptoms That Need Attention

Not all gas is routine. If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, it’s important to rule out more serious complications.

Smelly gas after gastric bypass may indicate food malabsorption or gut bacterial imbalance
Gas accompanied by bloating, cramping, or sharp pain could point to an obstruction
If flatulence is combined with diarrhea or nausea, check in with your bariatric care team

Learning how to relieve gas pain after a gastric sleeve or bypass is key to long-term recovery and comfort. Consistently eating past fullness after gastric sleeve surgery can lead to risks of overeating after gastric sleeve surgery, gradually stretching the stomach pouch and undermining weight-loss goals.

Ulcers after gastric bypass surgery often develop from excess stomach acid, irritation caused by certain foods or drinks, the use of pain relievers like NSAIDs, or infection with H. pylori. Effective treatment combines acid-reducing medication with dietary adjustments and the elimination of triggers such as smoking, helping patients protect their digestive health long-term. Addressing these risks is important when persistent gas is paired with pain or bleeding.

How To Get Rid Of Gas After Gastric Bypass

Fortunately, relief is possible with the right approach. Here are several proven strategies:

1. Adjust Your Diet

Avoid known gas-forming foods, especially those that include sugar alcohols or high fiber content. Keep a food journal to track your body’s responses. The key to how to prevent gas after gastric bypass often lies in what (and how) you eat.

2. Eat Slower and Chew Thoroughly

Rushed meals introduce air into your digestive system. Slowing down your eating pace reduces air swallowing, making it easier for your body to process food without bloating.

3. Use Targeted Supplements

Some patients find relief through:

Simethicone (Gas-X) for short-term relief
Probiotics to rebalance gut bacteria
Digestive enzymes, if recommended by a provider

Always consult your bariatric team before starting supplements, especially if you’re dealing with excessive gas after gastric bypass.

Physical Techniques to Relieve Pressure

Daily movement and light activity go a long way in helping your digestive system work efficiently. Walking after meals, yoga stretches, and even simple breathing exercises can ease the discomfort of trapped gas after gastric bypass.

Many patients also benefit from lying on their left side or using heat packs to ease abdominal pressure.

Managing Gas in Social Settings

It’s one thing to manage gas at home, but public situations are another challenge.

Planning Ahead

Avoid known trigger foods before social gatherings. Keep simethicone on hand for emergencies and wear odor-neutralizing undergarments if needed.

Mental Strategies

Embarrassment is common, but shouldn’t keep you isolated. Learning how to get rid of gas after gastric bypass includes building confidence and having quick, calm responses ready if a situation arises.

When to Seek Medical Support

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, it’s time to speak with a bariatric professional.

Persistent pain
Offensive or extreme odor
Inability to pass gas or stool
Frequent gas after bariatric surgery disrupts daily life

Your surgeon or dietitian can assess for malabsorption, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), or nutrient deficiencies that may be contributing to symptoms.

Final Thoughts

Gas is a frustrating but manageable part of life after bariatric surgery. Whether you’re dealing with smelly gas after gastric bypass, pressure after meals, or discomfort during social outings, solutions are available. Diet changes, mindful eating, targeted supplements, and physical activity all contribute to reducing symptoms and restoring comfort.

For ongoing support, individualized dietary planning, and help understanding your unique symptoms, the team at Lenox Hill Bariatric Surgery Program provides expert, long-term care. Their specialists guide patients through every stage of recovery, offering practical solutions to manage gas and other post-surgical concerns. With professional support and evidence-based strategies, patients seeking services for a gastric sleeve in New York can feel confident knowing relief and lasting digestive wellness are within reach. In addition, we also specialize in lap band surgery, duodenal switch surgery, and gastric bypass surgery in NYC. To learn more about which option best fits your health goals, contact us today.

Moderate And Severe Constipation After Gastric Sleeve: Is It Normal?

Written by jefftormey on June 14, 2023. Posted in Weight Loss Blog.

If you’re overweight, then it can have a negative effect on all areas of your life. There are a lot of sacrifices you have to make. For these reasons, many people look to bariatric surgeons to help them drop excess fat. At Lenox Hill Bariatric Surgery Program, our friendly expert weight loss surgeons are dedicated to your long-term health goals.

Gastric sleeve surgery is a popular route to start feeling better and slimming down. However, as with any procedure, there are some side effects to consider. Gastric sleeve constipation is a relatively common occurrence.

So in this blog post to keep reading, we’ll explore the nature and causes of constipation after gastric sleeve, and make sure that you have a great game plan to mitigate this discomfort after your procedure.

Read More: Tips For Losing Weight After A VSG

Constipation After Gastric Sleeve & Gastric Bypass

If you have mild or even severe constipation with gastric bypass or gastric sleeve, there’s nothing to be alarmed by, necessarily. Constipation after VSG is a fairly normal occurrence.

Let’s talk about some of the reasons why it occurs and how you can improve the symptoms — without necessarily needing miralax after gastric sleeve.

The causes of constipation after gastric sleeve are:

Not Getting Enough Physical Movement

You need to be exercising on a regular basis as much as possible based on your body’s limits. This improves your overall metabolism, which also leads to better digestion. Gastric sleeve and constipation often go hand in hand because people don’t keep their metabolism running high enough.

Ultimately, you can prevent constipation with some frequent walks or other cardio exercises.

Calcium And Iron

Taking vitamins may not be the most exciting thing in the world. However, it will help your constipation significantly.

Read more: What To Know About Iron Deficiency After Gastric Surgery

Narcotics

Narcotics are useful for relieving pain, however, they do slow down your digestive system and small intestine. Ultimately, your small intestine will absorb more fluid. This means your stool is drier and does not move through your body as quickly.

Not Getting Enough Fiber Or Water

If you fail to hydrate and get fiber in your diet, then you could experience additional constipation after your bariatric surgery.

What To Do If You’re Feeling Constipated

If you’re feeling the symptoms of VSG constipation, keep to the tips above. However, if it goes on to such an extent that you’re using the bathroom less than twice per week, you should consult a doctor.

Let them know about any additional symptoms you’re experiencing and follow their suggestions.

Speak With A Surgeon About Gastric Sleeve Surgery Today

If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery in NYC, then reach out to Lenox Hill Bariatric Surgery Program now. Gastric sleeve surgery can be safe and effective when losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

If managed right, you can reduce constipation after sleeve surgery. Our surgeons are highly trained in the most cutting-edge techniques. When necessary, we use surgery to help you achieve your weight loss goals, as well as other options. So let’s begin your new life today.

Two People Holding Glasses Of Whiskey With Ice Cubes

Drinking Alcohol After Gastric Sleeve & Other Bariatric Surgery: Can You Do It?

Written by jefftormey on June 7, 2023. Posted in Weight Loss Blog.

For many patients, the road to better health through bariatric surgery is filled with major milestones, one of the most misunderstood being alcohol consumption. As the body transforms following procedures like the gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, so does the way it reacts to substances like alcohol. The common question, when can I drink alcohol after gastric sleeve?, doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. But what is certain: drinking after bariatric surgery is no longer business as usual.

Whether you’re a few weeks post-op or approaching the one-year mark, understanding when and how to safely reintroduce alcohol is crucial. Let’s explore what you need to know.

How Alcohol Impacts You Differently After Bariatric Surgery

Alcohol metabolism changes dramatically after bariatric procedures, particularly the gastric sleeve. The surgery reduces your stomach’s size and alters digestion, meaning alcohol passes into your bloodstream faster and more intensely. Patients often report feeling the effects of one drink as if they’ve had three, an alarming shift for anyone used to social or occasional drinking.

This is also why asking how long after gastric sleeve can you drink alcohol isn’t just about healing timelines, it’s about whether your body is physically ready to handle alcohol at all. Your new anatomy no longer processes alcohol like it used to. This puts you at greater risk for overconsumption, dehydration, and in some cases, alcohol dependency.

Drinking alcohol after bariatric surgery demands caution because the body absorbs alcohol faster, increasing the risk of discomfort, nutrient issues, and long-term dependency.

When Can You Safely Start Drinking Alcohol Again?

Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 6 to 12 months after surgery before considering alcohol. That may sound extreme, but this guideline exists for a reason: your body is going through a complex period of metabolic adaptation and internal healing.

The first year after bariatric surgery focuses on phased eating plans, hydration, and vitamin support, helping patients adapt physically and emotionally while maintaining steady weight loss.

Still, plenty of people start searching when can you drink alcohol after gastric sleeve or how long after a gastric sleeve can you drink alcohol just weeks into recovery. And some even experiment with drinking alcohol 3 weeks after a gastric sleeve, thinking a few sips won’t hurt. This is where complications start.

Drinking too soon can:

Irritate your healing stomach lining
Interfere with nutrient absorption
Trigger dumping syndrome
Leads to addiction due to altered alcohol tolerance

So if you’re wondering, alcohol 1 month after gastric sleeve, is it safe?, the answer is a hard no. One month in, your body is still adjusting, and even mild alcohol exposure can undo progress or cause severe side effects.

What Happens If You Drink Too Early?

Let’s say someone ignores medical advice and indulges anyway. What happens?

First, they’re likely to feel alcohol’s effects much more quickly. Even half a drink can bring on symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or vomiting. The stomach, now smaller and more sensitive, absorbs alcohol rapidly, sending it into the bloodstream with minimal buffering. As a result, patients become intoxicated faster, and crash harder.

This reaction can create a false sense of tolerance: I only had one drink, and I feel fine.But it’s deceptive. Your blood alcohol level may be higher than it feels, impairing your judgment and potentially leading to dangerous situations. This risk is especially high during the early post-op period.

Understanding the Long-Term Risks

While many people focus on how long after bariatric surgery can you drink alcohol, it’s equally important to ask what happens long term. Studies show that post-bariatric patients may be more prone to developing alcohol use disorder. There’s a physiological basis for this. The surgery not only changes how alcohol is absorbed, but also how the brain responds to it.

You may find yourself craving alcohol more often or drinking more than intended. This is why bariatric professionals encourage patients to treat alcohol as a long-term lifestyle consideration, not just something to resume once the waiting period ends.

Knowing the foods to avoid after bariatric surgery, such as sugary drinks, high-fat meals, and dry or tough foods, protects digestive health and supports lasting weight management.

Best Practices If You Choose to Drink Later On

Once you get the green light from your medical team and you’re several months (preferably a year) post-op, it’s possible to enjoy a drink occasionally. But strategy is everything.

Here’s how to do it safely:

Eat beforehand to slow alcohol absorption
Avoid sugary or high-carb cocktails that can trigger dumping syndrome
Stay away from carbonated mixers which expand in the stomach and cause bloating
Sip slowly, don’t down drinks like before surgery
Avoid alcohol on an empty stomach, as it hits harder than ever

The question isn’t just how long after gastric sleeve can I drink alcohol, but rather how can I drink responsibly without compromising my results?

Avoid carbonated drinks after bariatric surgery, as carbonation can cause bloating, stretch the stomach pouch, and interfere with proper healing and digestion.

The Problem With Carbonated Drinks and Alcohol Mixers

Some patients might assume switching to hard seltzers or bubbly wine makes things easier, but carbonation brings its own set of problems. After gastric sleeve surgery, carbonated drinks can stretch your stomach pouch, cause gas pain, and make you feel uncomfortably full, or worse, nauseated.

Many surgeons recommend steering clear of carbonation entirely. If you’re set on having a cocktail, stick to flat mixers like diluted juice or water-based infusions. The less stress you put on your digestive system, the better your chances of avoiding complications.

Final Thoughts

The decision to resume alcohol isn’t as simple as flipping a switch once you hit the six-month mark. It’s about weighing the risks, listening to your body, and being honest with yourself about why you want to drink. Not everyone can return to alcohol safely, and that’s okay.

If you’re still asking how long after gastric sleeve can you drink alcohol or when can you drink after gastric sleeve, it’s time to speak with a bariatric care team that understands your full journey, not just the surgery itself. The Lenox Hill Bariatric Surgery Program, a leading provider of gastric sleeve in New York care, offers comprehensive post-operative support, helping patients navigate long-term lifestyle decisions, including whether and how to reintroduce alcohol. Our multidisciplinary team guides each step of recovery, ensuring your choices align with your health goals. In addition, we offer a full spectrum of weight loss surgery in NY, including lap band surgery, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, and more, to support your journey toward better health. Contact us today to begin your personalized path to recovery.