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Gastric
Bypass Diet
Gastric bypass is a type of surgery in which the stomach is reduced
in size by one of several methods. This smaller stomach is then
reconnected or bypassed to the small intestine. Having a gastric
bypass can help speed weight loss by making it difficult to eat
too much food at one time and to feel satisfied after very small
meals.
After a gastric bypass,
the volume the new, smaller stomach can hold is reduced from
about 1 quart to about 1 ounce, or 2 tablespoons.
Over time, the stomach pouch will stretch until it can hold 4 to
8 ounces, or about 1/2 to 1 cup, at a time. The size of the opening
created between the stomach and small intestine is smaller, too&emdash;roughly
1/4 inch wide&emdash;which slows the rate at which food is
emptied from the stomach into the small intestine.
Gastric bypass is usually performed only after many other methods
of weight loss have been tried and failed. However, the surgery
is not an end in itself. It is important to work closely with a
physician and registered dietitian (R.D.) to start a program of
new eating habits to ensure that weight loss is safe and successful.
A regular, simple exercise program and psychological support are
often recommended to create a better self-image and a whole new
attitude to food.
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Gastric bypass surgery creates dramatic changes
in the size and shape of the stomach. It may take awhile to get
used to these changes. Patients report a wide variety of complications
after surgery. Some of these will go away with time, while others
can be lessened with adjustment of the diet.
Nausea and vomiting are the most common complications occurring
in the first few months after gastric bypass surgery. They may
occur after eating too fast, drinking liquids while eating, not
chewing enough, or eating more than the pouch can comfortably hold.
It is necessary to learn to eat very slowly and chew foods thoroughly.
Nausea and vomiting can also be triggered after trying new foods.
If this happens, allow a few days to pass before trying a new food
again. Notify a physician if frequent vomiting becomes a problem.
Dehydration (loss of body fluids) is also an important concern,
especially if vomiting or diarrhea is frequent. Prevent dehydration
by drinking water or low-calorie beverages between meals (when
there is no food in the stomach), but remember that the stomach
can only hold 3-4 ounces at a time.
Dumping Syndrome occurs when food passes too quickly from the
stomach into the small intestine. Symptoms may include a combination
of nausea, uncomfortable fullness, cramping, and diarrhea, or weakness,
sweating, and fast heart rate. Dumping can be provoked by eating
very sweet or sugary foods. Reduce intake of sweets and notify
a physician if these symptoms occur.
Food Intolerances, especially
to red meat, milk, and high-fiber
foods, are experienced by many patients. Since food intolerances
vary with the individual, a dietitian can help with sorting out
food choices to minimize symptoms such as stomach discomfort, nausea,
or diarrhea.
Overeating -- Almost all people who require gastric bypass surgery
have had problems with overeating. The causes for this are complex,
involving genetics, emotions, upbringing, and even the functions
of the brain. None of this changes after bypass surgery, except
that the stomach is now much smaller. Eating more than the new
stomach can hold may cause vomiting, expansion of the pouch, weight
gain, or even rupture of the stomach. Education, counseling, group
support, and certain medications can help to prevent overeating
and are just as important as diet to the success of the operation.
Others: Stomach pain, ulcers, and gastritis (an inflammation of
the stomach lining) are complications which may require medical
attention. Notify a physician if frequent stomach pain becomes
a problem.
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