After gastric sleeve surgery, many patients find that they lose weight quickly at first. However, some patients may eventually reach a plateau, where their weight loss slows down or stops altogether.
There are several possible reasons for this.
First, the body may adjust to the smaller stomach size by burning fewer calories.
Second, patients may begin to eat more high-calorie foods or larger portions than they did before surgery.
And third, some patients may not be following their post-surgery diet and exercise plan as closely as they should be.
If you have a plateau after gastric sleeve surgery, talk to your doctor or dietitian. They can help you identify any potential roadblocks and come up with a plan to get you back on track.
Ways To Overcome A Plateau
It is important to understand that your body is going through a lot of changes and needs time to adjust. It is normal for your weight loss to slow down or even stop for a period of time.
There are several things you can do to break through a weight loss plateau:
1. Increase your activity level: One reason why you may have hit a plateau is because you have become too comfortable with your new lifestyle and are not burning as many calories as you were before. Try adding more activity into your day-to-day routine, such as taking a brisk walk or going for a swim.
2. Change up your diet: If you have been eating the same foods day in and day out, your body may have become used to them and is no longer burning as many calories. mix things up by trying new recipes or adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet.
3. Get more sleep: Sleep is important for overall health and can also help with weight loss. Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
4. Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is important for many reasons, including weight loss. Drinking eight glasses of water a day will help to keep your metabolism going and flush out toxins.
5. Avoid stress: Stress can sabotage your weight loss efforts. Try to find ways to relax and de-stress, such as yoga or meditation.
If you have been following your gastric sleeve surgery diet and exercise plan but have hit a weight loss plateau, don’t give up. By making some simple changes, you can jump start your weight loss and get back on track.
Long-Term Symptoms of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
It is not uncommon for patients who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery to experience long-term symptoms. While the majority of patients are able to return to their normal lives and activities within a few months, some may suffer from persistent problems.
“Dumping Syndrome”
The most common long-term symptom of gastric sleeve surgery is known as “dumping syndrome.” This condition occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine. Symptoms of dumping syndrome include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and dizziness. This condition can be frustrating and uncomfortable, but it is usually not serious.
Ulcers
Another potential long-term complication of gastric sleeve surgery is ulcers. Ulcers are sores that form on the lining of the stomach or small intestine. They can be painful and may bleed. Ulcers are more likely to occur in patients who have had surgery on the upper part of their stomach (known as a “total gastrectomy”).
Strictures
Finally, some patients may experience “strictures” after gastric sleeve surgery. A stricture is a narrowing of the opening between the stomach and small intestine. This can cause food to back up into the stomach, leading to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Strictures can usually be treated with medication or surgery.
Overall, gastric sleeve surgery is a safe and effective weight loss procedure. Most patients are able to return to their normal lives within a few months. However, some may experience long-term symptoms such as dumping syndrome, ulcers, or strictures. These problems can be frustrating, but they are usually not serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to talk to your doctor.
