The average weight regain 5 years after bariatric surgery is 20%. This small amount of weight regain is likely to be due to the relaxing of the stomach and a subtle return of hunger hormones. If weight regain is greater than average, other factors are likely to be contributing to this.
Factors Contributing to Weight Regain After Bariatric Surgery
These factors are often a complex mix of physical, social, and psychological factors which can affect what we choose to eat, when we eat, how much we eat, how we eat, and the fluids we consume.
The following factors can contribute to weight regain:
- Consuming high in fat, high sugar snack foods; these are addictive, low in nutrients and low in fibre.
- Consuming poorly balanced meals with sub-optimal protein and fibre.
- Grazing throughout the day, rather than having structured meals and snacks.
- Eating until full or overfull, rather than stopping at satiety.
- Eating quickly and not being mindful at mealtimes.
- Emotional eating due to stress, anxiety or boredom.
- Drinking alcohol on a regular basis; alcohol is high in calories and can increase hunger.
- Drinking carbonated drinks; sugary drinks are high in calories but provide no nutrients; diet soft drinks may cause sugar cravings and insulin resistance.
- Not drinking enough water/fluid through the day, or mistaking thirst for hunger.
- Low physical activity level due to injury, arthritis, lack of planning, motivation or time.
- Certain medications, such as anti-depressants which can increase hunger/appetite.
- Untreated reflux which often increases hunger, and can also damage the oesophagus.
- Nutrient deficiency including low iron stores, which can cause lethargy and subsequent sugar cravings.
- Hormone changes during pregnancy and menopause.
Mercy Bariatrics
In summary, a small amount of weight regain after weight loss surgery is inevitable. At Mercy Bariatrics, there is no judgement with regards to the degree of weight regain, as it is influenced by many factors. Our multidisciplinary team are here to help you to address these factors and assist you with our Back On Track program.
