My Gastric Bypass Journey- A personal weight loss story- Managing your bowels

One of the challenges after gastric bypass is constipation that comes from a lack of fiber and fluid. As well as the changes in diet. You find this early on after the surgery, like in the hospital when what you pass is not all that attractive.  Remember, most of us have been on a liquid diet for two weeks prior to the surgery and there is not much to pass, other than gas and that is another story!

Then, for at least two weeks after you will be on a liquid diet. Keep the water up and only be able to sip small amounts. Keep the faith, keep moving. It gets better, if you pay attention.

There is an old joke about the butt hole and the brain fighting over who was in charge of the body.  After bypass surgery the butt hole wins.  If you do not evacuate you will feel MISERABLE and possibly require surgery to clear a blockage.You will find your bowels change from day to day, even when you are meeting the requirements. They can change in color. Don’t let this alarm you. (Unless you see red blood, then call your surgeon). The medications you are on can change the color too, so anything from gray-green-black is normal.  Mine tend to stay fairly yellowish now that I am 7 months out.

To stay ahead of the issue, follow your surgeons plan. Here is what works for me. (I feel best if I go every day)

1. Stool softener daily (this keeps your go “comfortable” it should pass in the form of a snake if you are well hydrated)
2. at least 64 oz water daily
3. a cup of “smooth move” tea (google it) daily
4. if nothing moves in two days- a laxative
5. adding fiber as I can- salads, apples etc (as you can eat more you can add these items but always do protein first)

It’s not a pretty subject but it is important.  I actually keep a log in my journal, cause you can forget. “Did I poo this week?”