If you are one of the thousands of people who have had gastric bypass surgery, you may be experiencing foul-smelling bowel movements. This is a side effect of the surgery, and there are things you can do to help minimize the smell.
For example, following a strict diet and taking a regular multivitamin can help your body absorb nutrients more efficiently, which may reduce the smell of your bowel movements.
Read more: What To Eat Gastric Bypass Surgery: Diet.
Here, we will discuss what causes the smell and provide tips for making your bowel movements more pleasant.
What Causes Foul Smelling Bowel Movements After Gastric Bypass?
After a bariatric surgery such as gastric bypass, your body may take time to adjust and get back in balance. This includes changes to your diet, digestive system, and nutrition absorption. Here are some reasons why you may experience foul-smelling bowel movements after a gastric bypass:
1. Malabsorption/Nutrient Deficiencies
After gastric bypass, your body cannot absorb some essential vitamins and minerals. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies that can cause smelly stools.
2. Bacterial Overgrowth
With any surgery, there is a risk of infection or bacterial overgrowth in the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to foul-smelling stools due to the increased amount of bacteria.
3. Imbalanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet after gastric bypass is essential to ensure your body has proper nutrition and absorption. Eating a diet high in fat, processed foods, and sugar can lead to an imbalance of bacteria in the gut and cause foul-smelling stools.
4. Dehydration
Not drinking enough water or fluids can cause your body to become dehydrated. This results in harder and drier stools which may have a foul odor.
What Can You Do to Reduce Foul Smelling Bowel Movements After Gastric Bypass?
The good news is that there are some things you can do to reduce the smell associated with your bowel movements after gastric bypass. Here are a few tips:
1. Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating foods high in fiber, like fruits and vegetables, can help to keep your bowel movements regular. Additionally, limiting processed foods and fatty meats can help to decrease the smell associated with your post-gastric bypass bowel movements.
2. Stay Hydrated
Increasing your water intake can also be beneficial in reducing foul-smelling bowel movements after gastric bypass. Drinking enough water helps keep your stool soft and easy to pass, which can help reduce its odor.
3. Take Supplements
Taking a multivitamin or other supplements containing iron, calcium, and vitamin B12 can help replenish any nutrients lost due to gastric bypass surgery. Probiotics help keep your digestive system healthy and reduce odor from your bowel movements.
4. Avoid Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated beverages, like soda and sparkling water, can cause gas and bloating, leading to foul-smelling bowel movements.
5. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can help reduce the smell of your bowel movements after gastric bypass. Exercise helps to increase circulation in the body and improve digestion, which can reduce the smell associated with your bowel movements.
Contact ALO Bariatrics for gastric bypass in Mexico. We have a team of dedicated bariatric surgeons who can help you achieve your weight loss goals. Contact us today to get started!
