Following on from last week’s blog, here are some other common side effects after bariatric surgery:
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose in a carbohydrate or sugar found in dairy products, more predominantly in milk, soft cheeses, cream and thin runny yoghurt.
After bariatric surgery, lactose passes from the stomach into the small intestine at a much faster rate, which can overwhelm the available enzyme (lactase). As a result, symptoms such as bloating, abdominal cramping, gas and diarrhoea may occur.
To help with this, try switching to lactose free dairy products or taking a lactase enzyme such as Lacteeze, which helps with the digestion of lactose containing foods.
Hair loss
Also known as telogen effluvium which refers to temporary hair loss after a major stressor such as bariatric surgery. This type of hair loss also occurs during pregnancy or after a traumatic event.
Hair starts to shed between 3-6 months post surgery, and starts growing back after 6 months.
Long term hair loss (after 6 months post surgery) can be due to nutritional deficiencies, in particular iron, zinc and protein.
Fatigue
For tips on how to improve your energy levels, check out our blog post – How to Boost Energy When Tired – 5 Tips.
Dumping syndrome
Have you read our blog on Dumping Syndrome? This article goes through what is dumping syndrome, ‘early’ versus ‘late’ dumping and strategies to prevent it.
Sleep disturbances
For factors that affect your sleep quality after bariatric surgery and tips on how to improve your sleep, see blog post – 9 Strategies to Improve Sleep after Bariatric Surgery.
For any particular concerns about post bariatric symptoms, please get in touch with either your local GP or our dietitian on 07 3871 2277 or email dietitian@dradib.com.au
