1.  Physical Stress

Different types of stresses on the body can cause hair loss.  Stressors can include:  high fever, severe infection, major surgery, acute physical trauma, chronic debilitating hair loss, acute weight loss, crash dieting, anorexia, low protein intake, medications (beta-blockers, anti-coagulants, retinoids, immunizations), hormonal disruption, iron or zinc deficiency.  Surgery-related hair loss should not last for more than six months and hair should re-grow after that period of loss.  If the hair loss is diet-related, it may last for longer.

2.  Nutrient Deficiency

Here are some common signs that your hair loss may be nutrient-related:

• Your hair loss started more than six months after surgery.
• Your hair loss lasts more than 1 year.
• You have low energy levels or other physical signs of fatigue and malnourishment.

If you have these diet-related symptoms, you may need to change something about your diet.  Ask yourself if you are getting at least 60 grams of protein if you’re a female or 80 grams of protein if you’re a male.  If you are not, you should start increasing your protein intake immediately.  Be sure to go with food first.  Getting a majority of your protein from supplements may enable you to reach your protein goal, but you may be missing out on nutrients from real foods that your body needs.

3.  Vitamins/Minerals Deficiency

Are you following your vitamin regimen closely?  If not, start immediately.  Iron is the single most important nutrient when it comes to preventable hair loss.  Zinc deficiency has also been seen in correlation with hair loss.  Biotin is commonly believed to help prevent hair loss but has not been confirmed through research involving humans.  Other possibilities for deficiency include Vitamin A, Folate and B6.  Taking your multivitamin daily is key.  If you have a history of anemia or are a female of menstruating age, you may have to take an additional Iron supplement.  Omega-3 Fatty acids are also good for hair health and are found in walnuts, avocado and flax seed.

4.  Emotional Stress

Are you stressed for any reason?  Stress can cause hair loss.  Try to incorporate even as little as 10 minutes of quiet time into your day.  Sit in silence for some deep breathing, go for a walk or do some reading to decrease your stress levels.  If you have recently stopped smoking, this may also cause you to feel stressed.  If so, hang in there!  You will feel better and be glad you quit soon.

If you don’t think any of the above reasons are causing your hair loss, make an appointment to see your doctor.  There may be an underlying metabolic issue that could be the cause.

Congratulations! You’ve taken a huge step in getting healthy. You’ve had bariatric surgery, and you’re looking forward to the pounds coming off. This is an exciting time in your life!

So, once you’ve gone home, do you know what to expect? You may have worries, and you may be surprised by some of the feelings you have. After a few weeks, and as you start eating solid food, your body may experience a variety of reactions. Here are some tips to help you be ready for anything.

What If You’re Nauseated?

Patients can experience nausea and vomiting. Remember to

• Eat slowly
• Take small bites
• Chew each bite at least 15 times
• Eat small portions
• Drink enough water (as much as 2 liters a day) to stay hydrated

Keep in mind that you’re filling a much smaller space now, so you may feel full faster. If vomiting is severe or persists, call your doctor right away. If you have an adjustable gastric band, it may need to be altered.

What If Some Foods Don’t Agree with You?

After surgery, you may find that you can’t tolerate some foods. Even if you take small bites, there may be some food items you should avoid. For instance,

• Vegetables, such as cauliflower and broccoli, which can cause gas and stomach pain
• Meat that is overly dry or tough
• Gummy foods such as bread, pasta, and rice
• Sticky items such as peanut butter
• Dairy products, since some patients become lactose intolerant

Don’t despair! There are still so many other foods to enjoy. Just learn to make substitutions, such as tender poultry instead of some other meats and soy milk instead of regular.

What If You Suddenly Feel Faint or Have a Rapid Heart Beat?

If you’ve had bypass surgery, these symptoms could be the result of “dumping syndrome,” which happens as the stomach empties too quickly into the small intestine. You may also experience sweating or stomach cramps.

These problems will probably pass on their own, but they can be unpleasant and frightening. To avoid this condition, try not to eat fatty foods and sweets. These foods are not nutritionally beneficial anyway, so—for the most part—strike them off your list.

What If You’re Losing Your Hair?

Don’t panic! Many people experience hair loss after surgery. This is normal, and usually the hair regrows after several months. Make sure you’re eating enough protein.

What If You’re Constipated?

This is a common occurrence, too. Try to eat a good variety of fruits and vegetables, and add a fiber supplement as needed. Get regular exercise, and drink plenty of water.

What If Your Skin Is Loose?

As you shed pounds, your excess skin may be loose and hang from your body. You may find this frustrating, since you want to look great after weight loss. But be patient. After you have attained your goal weight, there may be options. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of plastic surgery. In the meantime, make sure you participate in resistance exercises to tone muscle.

In the weeks and months after bariatric surgery, monitor your body for changes. Never hesitate to contact you doctor if you have concerns about symptoms you’re experiencing.

If you have questions about what to expect after surgery, contact North Florida Regional Medical Center. You can visit out bariatric page online or call 1-800-342-6057. We’re here to answer your questions and help you meet your weight-loss goals.

SOURCES
http://www.bariatricsurgerypittsburgh.com/surgery/side_effects.html
http://www.webmd.com/diet/weight-loss-surgery/gastric-banding-surgery-for-weight-loss