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Weight loss surgery is a major life-changing decision. But before you make that decision, it is important to know what it entails. Here are six myths about weight loss surgery and explanations of why they are either true or false.
Fast weight loss is guaranteed – FALSE
That depends on the individual. Some people lose 3 kg in the first month, others 13 kg or more. If you know someone who has undergone the same surgery, their weight loss may be different. It all depends on their initial weight and physical activity and how they follow their diet [Courcoulas et al., 2018].
Physical activity is not important after surgery – FALSE
Getting active early is very important. From the second week onwards, it is advisable to go for walks of several kilometres. However, it is worth keeping an eye on how you feel. Running and light sports can be done from the third week after surgery. It is not recommended to lift weights for a month and a half.
Alcoholism can develop after weight loss surgery – TRUE
The effects of alcohol may be more intense after surgery. There are also studies that show that after bypass surgery, there is a greater risk of addictive behaviour [Kanji, 2019]. If you are a frequent alcohol consumer, you may not want to have bypass surgery. The effects of alcohol can be different and unpredictable.
You cannot get pregnant after weight loss surgery – FALSE
After bariatric surgery, during the rapid weight loss period, i.e. 1-1.5 years, it is advisable not to become pregnant. In general, pregnancy and childbirth after weight loss surgery are safe for both mother and foetus [Snoek, 2021]. It is important to take the necessary supplements and to have regular contact with your midwife.
Nutritional supplements must be taken for the rest of your life – TRUE
Nutritional supplements must be taken for the rest of your life. You must also take a separate multivitamin and iron, vitamin B12, calcium and vitamin D. Today, there are specific preparations for weight loss surgery that contain all the necessary micronutrients.
Some foods are completely prohibited after surgery – FALSE
No food is prohibited. The change in diet mainly involves eating regularly, eating at a slower pace and eating more protein and fibre. There is no food that you should definitely not eat. Lactose intolerance may be more common and you must limit foods with added sugar and high fat, but it cannot be said that you are absolutely prohibited from eating something.
References
Courcoulas AP, King WC, Belle SH, et al. Seven-Year Weight Trajectories and Health Outcomes in the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (LABS) Study. JAMA Surg. 2018;153(5):427-434. doi:10.1001/jamasurg.2017.5025
Kanji S, Wong E, Akioyamen L, Melamed O, Taylor VH. Exploring pre-surgery and post-surgery substance use disorder and alcohol use disorder in bariatric surgery: a qualitative scoping review [published correction appears in Int J Obes (Lond). 2019 Nov;43(11):2348]. Int J Obes (Lond). 2019;43(9):1659-1674. doi:10.1038/s41366-019-0397-x
Snoek KM, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Hazebroek EJ, et al. The effects of bariatric surgery on periconception maternal health: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update. 2021;27(6):1030-1055. doi:10.1093/humupd/dmab022
