Tips on Handling Bad Breath after Bariatric Surgery

There are some strange side effects after weight loss surgery. One of those strange and unexpected side effects is bad breath. It is more common in people with Gastric Bypass, but it can occur with any type of surgery. There are many different reasons why it happens such as dehydration, stasis of food within the stomach, and ketosis. It can be challenging to deal with bad breath after weight loss surgery because it really affects with your self-esteem.

Our bodies are smart and with bariatric surgery, it takes a huge toll on your body. It will take time for your body to adjust post-op weight loss surgery, so you need to be prepared for things like bad breath to occur. The good news is there are things you can do to help with the bad breath.

1. Make sure you are always following your post-op bariatric surgery guidelines. This is critical! Ensuring you are getting the proper nutrition is the first step in helping with your bad breath. Follow the guidelines for when and what to eat and make sure you are taking your vitamins.
2. Drink your water! Dehydration is one of the biggest culprits of bad breath after weight loss surgery. You must always make sure you are getting your water in after bariatric surgery because it can really damage your progress if you don’t.
3. Improve your oral hygiene. Make sure you are brushing your teeth twice a day.
4. Take antacids for acid reflux. The acid in your stomach can play a huge role in bad breath, so make sure you keep Tums or other medicines available to help you if you are struggling with acid reflux.
5. Keep sugar free gum with you at all times. This will become your best friend and will help you deal with the insecurity of bad breath.

Bad breath is possible after weight loss surgery, but it doesn’t happen for everyone. Take the steps above and you will be on the path towards better smelling breath in no time!