Patients can fast 2 years after bariatric surgery: Expert

ANKARA 

Patients who have undergone a bariatric surgery -- to overcome obesity -- should not fast for two years, according to a Turkish surgeon.

Speaking to Anadolu, general surgeon Harun Karabacak warned that those who undergo bariatric surgery should definitely inform their doctors before fasting.

Karacak said patients who have undergone bariatric surgery are advised not to fast too soon after the surgery to avoid health risks because they have to eat and drink frequently, and cannot have a large meal in one go.

“They may have kidney disorders due to thirst, they may experience problems with protein and vitamins due to nutritional deficiencies. Thus, we do not recommend fasting to those who have undergone bariatric surgery in the first 24 months, which is stated as the early period.”

However, after 24 months these patients can fast after discussing with their surgeon and dietitian.

Giving advice on how to eat during Ramadan, the doctor said patients should break their fast by choosing water, paying attention to the solid-liquid separation.

​​​​​​​“If iftar (fast-breaking meal) is started with liquid, solid food should be consumed 30-45 minutes later. Likewise, if it is started with solid, liquid should be taken 30-45 minutes later.”

Between iftar meal and the pre-dawn-meal of sahur, patients should eat snacks two or three times and also follow protein-based diet in iftar and sahur meals, he added.

* Writing by Seda Sevencan