When you prepare for your gastric bypass post op surgery, the biggest part of your preparation will be having food around that will be easily digested with high nutritional value. While you want to remain positive and think of all the things you can have, there are some things you should watch out for, too.  

Getting ready to start your new life is exciting, but few patients prepare for the possible dairy intolerance that is common in approximately 10% of gastric bypass post op surgery patients.  Luckily, plenty of healthy alternatives exist.  With a little bit of foresight, you should be fine. 

What is Lactose Intolerance? 

Lactose intolerance is a dietary problem resulting in a lack of the enzyme, lactase, which is produced by the cells in the small intestine.  When lactase production is low, lactose cannot be broken down.  Lactose is a common sugar found in many foods, especially dairy products. 

The following symptoms may occur in someone experiencing lactose intolerance, usually within 15-30 minutes: 

• Bloating
• Cramping
• Flatulence
• Diarrhea  

While some lactose intolerance is genetic, bariatric patients have been known to acquire it after their surgeries.  The post op patient passes food such as milk directly through the gastric pouch into the small intestines at a much higher rate compared to the normal stomach.  The lactose simply overwhelms the available enzymes and lactose intolerance occurs. 

Tips for Coping with Lactose Intolerance in Bariatric Patients 

• If you are having a hard time giving up lactose, try to eat thicker products such as yogurt and cheese and avoid milks.   
• If you can’t live without milk, most grocery stores carry Lactaid as well as the generic store brand of lactose-free milk.         
• Make sure you are taking the proper supplements to provide the vitamins and calcium that you need in your diet.  
• Also, look for bariatric vitamin supplements that are lactose free.  Many nutritional supplements contain lactose to act as a preservative.  

Over 70% of the world’s population and 50 million Americans are affected by dairy intolerance.  Fortunately, plenty of solutions are available to make day-to-day living easier to cope.  Our next two posts will cover food to stock up on pre-surgery and common problem foods to avoid.