Can You Have Popcorn After Gastric Sleeve? (2024)

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• December 20, 2022

Gastric sleeve is a popular bariatric procedure that can help you lose weight and establish a healthier lifestyle. Common problems after gastric sleeve surgery include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Dumping Syndrome is another common problem. This is when food passes too quickly from the stomach to the intestine, causing vomiting, sweating, and dizziness.

Read more: Understanding Dumping Syndrome After Gastric Sleeve Surgery.

To avoid such symptoms after gastric sleeve surgery, it is crucial to follow the dietary guidelines provided by your doctor. This includes eating small meals and avoiding high-fat or sugary foods. One food that is often recommended to be avoided after gastric sleeve surgery is popcorn. Read on to understand why and how to enjoy popcorn after gastric sleeve surgery.

Effects of Eating Popcorn after Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Understanding that eating popcorn after gastric sleeve surgery can have consequences is essential. These complications may include the following:

1) Postoperative nausea and vomiting:

Popcorn can cause post-surgical nausea and vomiting due to the high starch content. This symptom may be more pronounced in those who have had gastric sleeve surgery because the stomach is smaller, and any sudden increase in food volume can be challenging to handle.

2) Gut irritation:

The hull of the popcorn kernel can irritate the stomach lining, resulting in abdominal cramps and discomfort.

3) Blockage of the stomach opening:

If popcorn is not chewed properly, it can clog the stomach opening and cause a blockage that needs to be surgically removed.

4) Weight gain:

Eating popcorn after gastric sleeve surgery may lead to weight gain, as popcorn is high in calories and fat.

When considering eating popcorn after gastric sleeve surgery, it is essential to be aware of these potential complications. To reduce the risk of adverse reactions, it is best to speak with a doctor before consuming more than a few bites of popcorn.

Tips To Enjoy Popcorn After Gastric Sleeve

While the postoperative diet may seem restrictive initially, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can safely eat popcorn after surgery without ill effects. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1) Start With Air-Popped Popcorn

Air-popped popcorn is the best option for post-gastric sleeve patients. It’s low in calories and fat while also being high in fiber. Additionally, it’s easy to digest compared to other types of popcorn.

2) Measure Your Portion Sizes

When eating popcorn after gastric sleeve surgery, measuring your portion sizes is essential. Popcorn is quite calorie-dense, so consuming only a small amount at once is essential. A good rule of thumb is around three tablespoons per serving, which should be enough to satisfy without overloading the stomach.

3) Go Light on the Seasonings

When adding seasonings to popcorn, it’s crucial to go light. Avoid using too much butter or oil, as these can quickly add unnecessary calories and fat your body doesn’t need. Instead, opt for low-calorie seasonings like herbs and spices.

4) Drink Lots of Water

Popcorn is a naturally high-fiber food, so drinking lots of water is essential. This will help keep your digestive system running smoothly and reduce the risk of any gastrointestinal issues.

Contact Dr. Jalil for the best bariatric surgery in Mexico. Our clinic is one of the leading bariatric centers in Mexico, and we are committed to providing our patients with top-quality care.