Factors contributing to post-surgery weight gain
Surgery is a transformative journey. The operating table is just the beginning of the procedure, though. Many people struggle with post-surgery weight gain, often being confused by the abrupt change in their bodies. Although every person's experience is different and depends on the type of surgery, some common factors contribute to this sudden change. Let's look at these factors.
Fluid retention
Postoperative edema, another name for fluid retention following surgery, is the most frequent cause of weight gain. Edema is the result of your body retaining more fluid in an attempt to reduce inflammation and aid in healing. Intravenous (IV) fluids given during surgery may also be the cause. Edema can occur in a single area, or broadly, affecting the entire body.
Medication
For post-surgery recuperation, doctors often prescribe medication. These medications can also affect the way the body processes nutrients, potentially leading to weight gain. Although these medications speed up healing and strength after surgery, they could cause weight gain as a side effect. Some of these recommended medications can alter your metabolism causing you to gain weight.
Stress
Surgery can be a stressful experience, leading to the release of stress hormones like cortisol. Stress, both physical and psychological, can cause hormonal abnormalities. Additionally, stress can lead to water retention by disrupting the kidneys and increasing the body's levels of anti-diuretic hormone (ADH). As a result, you gain weight as your kidneys attempt to keep your body from retaining water.
Rest
Bed rest is often recommended to support healing after surgery. However, post-surgery, some mobility is also vital. Prolonged immobility or complete rest can slow your body's metabolic rate (BMR) and calorie expenditure, potentially causing weight gain due to reduced physical activity. Therefore, it's important to follow the guidance of your healthcare provider regarding post-surgery mobility and activity levels.
Comfort food
Pain, nausea, and discomfort post-surgery can impact a person's eating habits. Following surgery, recovery can be emotionally taxing, unpleasant, and stressful. And you may find yourself grabbing for your go-to comfort foods to get through this. But, after you have recovered, if you keep indulging instead of switching back to a more balanced diet, you can put on weight.
