Hungry After Bariatric Surgery? Here’s Why and What to Do

Written by Kristen Carli, RD and medically reviewed by Dr. Stephen Boyce, MD

Many people say they get hungrier after bariatric surgery. The procedure alters the GI tract, so it reduces food intake. But, some people experience sudden hunger pangs. There are several elements that contribute to this. This article will look at the causes of hunger after bariatric surgery. It will also cover how to manage it.

Common Reasons for Hunger After Surgery

There are a few reasons why you could be experiencing hunger after surgery. For one, after bariatric surgery, your body goes through significant hormonal shifts. This is largely due to the hunger hormone, ghrelin. After surgery, changes in ghrelin levels may work to increase your appetite.

On top of this, your body requires additional energy to heal, which can lead to an increased feeling of hunger.

Lastly, pain medications and certain anesthesia have a surprising effect on hunger. These medications can sometimes lead to a temporary increased appetite, causing an imbalance in hunger signals.

Is It Normal to Be Always Hungry After Bariatric Surgery?

It’s important to note that it is also possible that you are truly experiencing hunger. With such a drastic change to your body, recovery needs more nutrients. Your body may be sending you a signal it’s time to fuel up.

After surgery, you will likely be on a limited diet. It will start with liquids and work up to solid food. This type of eating may leave you hungry. Or, it may require some getting used to.

With a smaller stomach, your hunger cues might feel a bit out of whack. Especially early in the recovery process, you may find it hard to know when you are truly full. It can take time to get a sense of your new stomach size and adjust to these new fullness signals. Eating slowly and mindfully can help you adapt to these changes.

How to Know the Difference Between Hunger and Cravings?

As you attempt to tune into your hunger and fullness cues, you may worry whether you are experiencing true hunger or simply cravings. In order to tell these sensations apart, evaluate if you are feeling something physical or psychological. True hunger is felt physically in your stomach. You may experience stomach growling and suffer from low energy. Cravings are mentally driven, coming about during times of emotion.

You can also determine if you’re feeling hunger or cravings by assessing the time sensitivity. True hunger will build gradually and can be satisfied by various foods. Cravings tend to be urgent and directed at a specific food.

Additionally, cravings are not usually fulfilled by eating, instead persisting even after eating. Eating a balanced meal will typically satisfy true hunger, making it go away for hours.

Dietary and Nutritional Strategies to Manage Hunger

If you are struggling with true hunger, not emotional cravings, here are a few strategies that will help. First, make sure you are eating protein at each meal or snack. Bariatric protein shakes and bariatric protein bars can increase satiety, helping to make you feel full. Be sure to choose lean protein sources like chicken, fish or tofu to avoid excess fat. 

In addition to protein, you also need fiber. Foods high in fiber like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds reduce hunger by filling you up. These foods are also important for keeping your digestion moving after surgery, as bowel problems after bariatric surgery can be common, potentially leading to diarrhea after bariatric surgery or constipation after bariatric surgery.

If you find you are still experiencing intense hunger, it’s likely you are waiting too long between meals or snacks. Try eating at consistent intervals throughout the day. This will help to stabilize blood sugar as well as prevent overeating later on.

Role of Supplements in Hunger and Satiety

Since significant adjustments have been made to the anatomy of your GI tract during surgery, bariatric vitamins are a necessary part of recovery. There are a few key supplements that you should consider taking. Bariatric vitamins chewable and liquid bariatric vitamin options may be ideal for those adapting to post-surgery digestion changes.

Fiber supplements may be a great option to increase your intake of fiber while adjusting to your diet. Supplements like psyllium husk can help to keep you full if you struggle eating enough fiber-rich foods.

Additionally, protein shakes are a crucial component to your post-surgery diet, because protein not only encourages fullness, but it also helps to heal wounds. Lastly. A bariatric multivitamin with iron and bariatric calcium chews should be included in your daily routine. Deficiencies in nutrients are common after bariatric surgery so supplementing is essential.

Long-Term Hunger Management and Maintenance

To maintain your hunger levels for the long haul, there are a few key management techniques. First, try to practice mindful eating. This can help you recognize true hunger cues and prevent emotional eating. Additionally, make sure to drink enough water. Thirst is often misinterpreted as hunger, so always make sure to keep water nearby. Lastly, make an effort to include regular exercise into your weekly routine. Physical activity supports metabolic health, regulates hunger hormones, and stabilizes blood sugar.

Experiencing hunger after bariatric surgery can be a common issue. By understanding the underlying causes of hunger and learning to differentiate between true hunger and cravings, you can better manage your appetite and adjust to your new eating habits. Incorporating protein, fiber, and mindful eating practices, along with the right supplements and hydration, will support long-term hunger management.

Conclusion

Post-bariatric surgery hunger is influenced by several factors, including hormonal changes, healing needs, and altered hunger cues. While the body adjusts, feelings of hunger can be more challenging to interpret, with true hunger often mistaken for cravings. Managing this hunger involves mindful eating, prioritizing protein and fiber, and supplementing with essential nutrients like those found in “Bari Life” products, which cater to the unique needs of bariatric patients.

Long-term success in managing hunger after surgery relies on regular hydration, exercise, and a consistent eating routine. By focusing on these strategies, patients can navigate the complexities of post-surgery hunger, promoting lasting health and satisfaction in their dietary journey.

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