Hydration after Bariatric Surgery

Staying hydrated is essential after bariatric surgery. Water will help your body heal, increase your energy levels and help you function optimally as you lose weight. Though many people neglect to drink enough water each day, this can have detriments for your health and progress after weight loss surgery.

Dr. Taylor will provide you with specific instructions on how much water you should be drinking and when ideal times to consume water are. Following these instructions will prevent you from experiencing dehydration and will ensure that drinking water doesn’t interfere with other aspects of your post-bariatric diet.

Drinking Water after Bariatric Surgery

Most adults should consume between 40 and 64 ounces of water every day. Talk to Dr. Taylor to find out if this requirement is correct for you. Depending on your activity level, medical history and environment, you may require more water than this to stay hydrated.

Immediately following bariatric surgery your daily water consumption will likely be higher, as you will be restricted to a liquid-only diet. Dr. Taylor will provide you with guidelines on how much water is appropriate to drink during this time.

After bariatric surgery there are certain things you should not do when drinking:

• Do not gulp your water. After bariatric surgery, large gulps can lead to nausea and vomiting.
• Do not drink while eating. Water can take up the limited capacity of your stomach, leaving little room for food. Give yourself 30 minutes before and after eating to consume fluids.
• Do not replace water with sugary beverages. Sugary beverages of all kinds contribute excess calories to your diet and should be avoided, while they can also cause dumping syndrome after gastric bypass. You will also need to avoid carbonated beverages.

Take small sips and be sure to drink your water sporadically throughout the day. As you lose weight and become more active listen to your body and discuss your water consumption with Dr. Taylor. Many people need to increase their water consumption as they begin to exercise more.

One way to start drinking more water is to carry a water bottle with you at all times. Having water with you will discourage you from purchasing sugary drinks and will encourage you to drink more of it than you may have otherwise.

If you want to add more flavors to your water, resist using sugary additives and opt instead for natural solutions like a slice of lemon, lime, orange or cucumber. For more advice on staying hydrated following weight loss surgery talk with Dr. Taylor.