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Constipation After Bariatric Surgery

Yes, it’s quite common, and you’re not alone!

Straight after bariatric surgery, your digestion slows down as your body adjusts to a new way of eating, less food, and sometimes new supplements. Many patients experience constipation in the first weeks post surgery, but the good news is that there are natural and gentle ways to help yourself.

Why does constipation happen after bariatric surgery?

  • Smaller food intake means less fiber and bulk
  • Slower gut motility after anesthesia and meds
  • Dehydration
  • Later - vitamin or iron supplements
  • Lack of physical movement 

 

Products that may contribute constipation - 

  • Low-Fiber or Processed Foods - white bread, pasta, rice, pastries, cakes, and cookies, processed snacks like chips, crackers & fast food like burgers, deep fried foods
  • Lentils, legumes (without drinking enough water)

  • Low-fluid, dry foods (without enough water intake) like protein bars, dry cereals, toasts or crackers without moist foods

     

Natural remedies that might help - 

  • Add a little psyllium husk (start slowly) – a gentle, natural fiber that helps things move
  • Include kefir or unsweetened yogurt to your diet – live good bacteria for gut health
  • Take a probiotic supplement – to restore / improve gut flora
  • Eat soaked prunes or drink prune water – old-school, but it works!
  • Drink enough water – aim for at least 1.5–2 L a day
  • Try part of your water drink as mineral water or water with electrolytes – minerals improve water absorption 

  • Get moving – walking 2–3 times a day helps the gut wake up. After you are healed - vertical movement like different types of jumping and little running, if allowed, may help.

     

If you haven’t had a bowel movement for 3+ days:

Don’t panic — but do something. You can try natural remedies first, but if it continues, contact your healthcare provider. It's important to treat constipation early to avoid discomfort or complications.

Your gut is healing, just like the rest of you.
Take it slowly, listen to your body, and reach out to your support team if you need help. 💚
We’re here for you every step of the way — even with the not-so-glamorous topics! 

 

Send us a message if you are looking into bariatric surgery and the process!