Nutrition after sleeve gastrectomy surgery (bariatric surgery) is just as important as the surgery itself. During this period, many people turn to social media for information. However, a significant portion of the content shared there is not based on scientific evidence and is not personalized. Therefore, it is important to question the nutritional advice encountered after surgery. Below, I have explained some of the most common misconceptions circulating on social media and the facts behind them in a clearer way.
Is It Necessary to Completely Eliminate Carbohydrates?
One of the most common recommendations on social media is that you should completely eliminate carbohydrates from your diet. However, this approach is neither realistic nor sustainable in the long term. The body needs energy, and a significant portion of this energy comes from carbohydrates.
After surgery, the important thing is not to eliminate carbohydrates but to obtain them from appropriate sources. Whole grains, vegetables, and controlled fruit consumption provide energy while supporting fiber intake. White bread, sugary products, and processed foods should be limited.
Is Eating Fruit Harmful?
The statement “Fruit contains sugar, so you should not eat it” is also quite common. However, this is incomplete information. The sugar in fruit comes with fiber and is therefore processed more gradually by the body.
Although portion control is important after surgery, completely eliminating fruit is not appropriate. On the contrary, regular and moderate consumption is important for obtaining vitamins and minerals. The key point is to choose whole fruit instead of fruit juice.
Are Detox Diets and Cleanses Really Necessary?
Content promoting “detox”, “drinks that reduce water retention”, or “fat-burning cleanses” is very popular on social media. People who want rapid results after surgery may be particularly drawn to these methods.
However, the body already has its own natural cleansing system. The liver, kidneys, and intestines perform this function naturally. Therefore, external detox practices are generally unnecessary. Moreover, even if such diets provide short-term benefits, they may lead to nutritional deficiencies in the long term.
Are Dairy Products Harmful? Should They Be Avoided?
Some people believe that they should completely stop consuming milk and dairy products after surgery. However, this is not true. Dairy products are rich in protein and calcium.
If lactose sensitivity develops, lactose-free alternatives can be considered. However, if there are no problems, completely eliminating this food group from the diet is unnecessary.
Are Supplements Enough to Support Immunity?
Recommendations such as “take this vitamin to strengthen your immune system” are frequently encountered on social media. However, the immune system does not depend on a single nutrient.
A balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and stress management are among the most important factors for immune health. Supplements play only a supportive role and are not sufficient on their own.
Conclusion: Let Reliable Information, Not Social Media, Be Your Guide
The process after sleeve gastrectomy surgery is individualized and must be managed carefully. Not all information circulating on social media is accurate or suitable for everyone. Therefore, questioning the content you encounter and proceeding with professional guidance is the healthiest approach.
Remember, what matters during this process is not rapid progress but sustainable and balanced progress.
References
Turkish Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism
https://www.temd.org.tr
Turkish Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society
https://www.toss.org.tr
NHS (National Health Service) – Healthy Eating
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/
World Health Organization (WHO) – Healthy Diet
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/healthy-diet
