What You Can Expect
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After gastric bypass surgery
Prior to surgery and during your hospital stay, a dietitian will visit with you about your nutrition needs after surgery. You'll also go home with:
- A booklet of instructions — valuable information to get you started on your new life and help you stay healthy.
- Medications including the appropriate vitamin pills and mild pain medication for any post-operative discomfort you may be experiencing.
- An exercise plan to support your lifelong commitment to good health.
New Habits to Adopt
One of the most important habits you can adopt in the first several weeks is to chew your food well and swallow small amounts at a time. Why? Because food can plug the new, smaller opening and cause discomfort.
Another important habit is food choice. After gastric bypass surgery, sweets such as chocolates and other rich candies will frequently cause abdominal cramps, sweating and nausea. You'll want to stay away from these types of food. Occasionally dairy products will produce the same results, but acidophilus milk or the addition of Lactaid to milk can help.
A third new habit will be to break up any larger pills you might take. Smaller, more manageable pieces will go down more easily. Or ask your pharmacist if smaller pills are available.
Step into the Exercise Habit
You will likely feel fatigued after the surgery — this is normal. It takes several weeks for your strength to return and for your body to completely heal.
We recommend you gradually move into a daily walking habit to regain your strength:
- Begin with short distances and make sure you congratulate yourself for taking this very important step.
- Within two months after surgery, try to exercise four hours per week. Again, pat yourself on the back.
- If walking is your chosen exercise, we recommend a brisk 50-minute walk (without stopping) six times a week. A goal of walking three miles in 45-50 minutes is recommended.
MeritCare's Lifelong Fitness Program may be just what you need to make exercise a permanent part of your life.