If you’ve had gallbladder surgery, you may have noticed your stomach feels bigger than it did before. You’re not imagining things after gallbladder removal surgery, the stomach can actually stretch out to accommodate more food. Here’s what’s going on and why it happens.
What is the gallbladder and what does it do
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that sits just below the liver. Its main function is to store bile, a yellowish fluid that helps to break down fats.
The bile is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder until it is needed for digestion. When we eat a meal, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine, where it helps to break down fats and absorb nutrients.
In addition to digesting food, the bile also helps to eliminate toxins from the body. For this reason, a healthy gallbladder is essential for good health.
Unfortunately, the gallbladder is also susceptible to problems, such as gallstones and inflammation. When these problems occur, they can be painful and may require treatment.
Why is my stomach bigger after gallbladder surgery
After having surgery to remove the gallbladder, it is common for patients to notice that their stomach looks bigger. There are a few reasons for this.
- First, the surgery itself can cause the stomach to swell. This is usually temporary and will resolve on its own.
- Second, patients may be constipated after surgery, which can also contribute to a distended stomach. Constipation is often caused by a lack of fiber in the diet, pain medication, or not drinking enough fluids.
- Finally, some patients may develop a hernia at the site of the incision. This is more common in people who are overweight or have previously had abdominal surgery. If you are concerned about the size of your stomach after gallbladder surgery, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if there is a problem or if everything is healing as it should be.
How to recover after gallbladder surgery
Gallbladder surgery is a common procedure that is performed to remove the gallbladder. The surgery is usually safe and effective, but it can be a major surgery with a long recovery period. Here are a few tips to help you recover after your gallbladder surgery:
1. Get plenty of rest. Your body needs time to heal, so make sure to get plenty of rest. Avoid strenuous activity and take it easy for at least the first week after your surgery.
2. Eat healthy. It is important to eat healthy foods to help your body heal. Avoid fatty and greasy foods, as they can make your symptoms worse. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
3. Take your pain medication. You will likely be prescribed pain medication after your surgery. Make sure to take it as directed by your doctor.
4. Follow up with your doctor. Be sure to follow up with your doctor after your surgery. They will want to check on your progress and make sure you are healing properly.
What can I do to reduce the size of my stomach
There are a few things you can do to help reduce the size of your stomach after gallbladder surgery.
First, avoid eating large meals. Instead, opt for smaller, more frequent meals.
Second, avoid high-fat foods. These can be difficult to digest and may cause bloating and discomfort.
Third, eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly. This will help your stomach to better digest your food and may help to reduce bloating.
Fourth, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. This will help to prevent constipation and will also keep your digestive system moving smoothly.
Finally, make sure to get plenty of exercise. Exercise helps to stimulate the digestive system and can also help to reduce bloating.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your stomach small and comfortable after gallbladder surgery.
Foods to avoid after gallbladder surgery
After gallbladder surgery, it is important to avoid certain foods that can cause complications or pain. Food to avoid include: high-fat foods, fried foods, greasy foods, spicy foods, sugary foods, and processed foods.
Additionally, it is advisable to limit caffeine and alcohol intake. Instead, focus on eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These nutritious foods will help you heal and provide the energy you need to recover from your surgery.
By following these dietary guidelines, you can avoid potential problems and make a full recovery.
