Gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) involves the removal of a large portion of the stomach, thus leaving back only a small “sleeve” of the organ. Like any major surgery, there are few potential side effects associated with the procedure. One such side effect is taste buds changing after gastric sleeve.
How Does Your Sense of Taste Change After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Most people report a decreased ability to taste sweet, high-fat, and salty foods. In some cases, patients also report an increased ability to taste sour and bitter flavors. While these changes can take some getting used to, they are generally not permanent, and many patients find that their sense of taste returns to normal over time.
What Factors Contribute to the Change in Taste after Gastric Sleeve?
While the exact causes of the taste change are not fully understood, several possible explanations exist. Some of them are mentioned below.
1) The surgery alters the biology of the taste buds, resulting in a reduced ability to detect certain flavors.
2) Bariatric surgery can sometimes damage the nerve responsible for transmitting information about taste and smell from the tongue to the brain.
3) Change in taste may be due to psychological factors, such as a heightened awareness of food after surgery.
4) Surgery causes reduced production of stomach acids. These acids are responsible for breaking down food and helping the body to absorb nutrients. Without them, food is not broken down as efficiently, and nutrients are not absorbed as well. This can lead to changes in the way that food tastes.
5) Taste buds change after gastric sleeve due to the inflammation in the throat and mouth, and thus make certain foods seem less appealing.
6) Finally, patients who have had bariatric surgery often lose a significant amount of weight. Weight loss causes fluctuations in hormone levels and other metabolic changes that can affect the taste.
Regardless of the cause, taste change after bariatric surgery is often temporary, and most patients adjust to their new diet over time.
Do Patients Experience Other Sensory Changes after Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
In addition to changes in taste, some patients also report changes in smell and touch. These changes are usually mild and temporary.
What Can Be Done to Minimize the Changes in Taste After Gastric Sleeve?
There are a few things that you can do to minimize the changes in taste after surgery:
1) Drink plenty of fluids to reduce inflammation and make it easier to taste food.
2) Eat small, frequent meals. Small portions avoid overwhelming your stomach and make it easier to digest food.
3) Avoid spicy, acidic, or high-fat foods. These can aggravate the stomach and make it more difficult to taste food.
4) Chew your food slowly and thoroughly. Breaking down the food will release the flavors.
5) Experiment with different foods and flavors and read What Foods to Avoid After Gastric Sleeve Surgery.
Get in Touch with West Texas Bariatric to Lose Weight Safely!
If you are struggling with obesity, we are here to help! We offer safe and affordable gastric sleeve surgery in Lubbock to help you achieve your goals. Our team will work closely to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs. To learn more, call us today.
