Can you share any experiences re: WLS and IBS???

Hello all!

I have a friend who suffers from nearly debilitating IBS, diabetes and severe depression... he is 37.

He would be a "light weight" in WLS circles, but his doctors are starting to think that it may be a viable option for him... though at this point he has only spoken with his PCP and is Psychiatrist....

We know that WLS helps with diabetes, and possibly depression...

It's the IBS that he is most interested in learning about... his current doctors aren't sure of the link, if any.  He will be speaking to a surgeon soon.

Thanks so much for any information!!!

 My IBS is much much much better since the surgery. I'm not convinced it's because of the surgery but more likely that I don't eat the way I used to. The carbs would set me off big time!

The surgery should cure his diabetes and make his IBS better I would think. It might take longer for the IBS but it should help.

Thanks so much for the replies!!!  I know that he is cautiously optimistic...

I've had the sleeve but my husband has been losingbweight too. And he has IBS big time. I've lost 40lbs but although he was smaller than me he has lost 20lbs. He's done this by cutting carbs down to around 40 grams. He used to live on tums, had bad p**ps, and body aches. Since he cut out bread, deserts, beer and rice 8 weeks ago, he hasn't taken one tum. He feels great and has so much energy. I wonder if your friend (especially as he's a lightweight) might consider trying a lowish carb diet for two weeks and see if it helps him.

Hi!

I have horrible IBS as well. Ever since I came home from surgery 3 months ago I have only had an IBS related issue 3 times. I would have to deal with it daily after every meal.

It is such a relief knowing that I don't have to stay near a bathroom anymore.

I don't know if it was the surgery or more that I am eating healthier and less quanitty.

 I too have (had) horrible IBS and it's very much under control since surgery.  My surgeon, NUT & I chose the sleeve over the RNY because one of the "side effects" of the sleeve is consipation.  In my case I don't suffer from constipation but the surgery has helped slow my lose bowels quite considerably.  Also, since I can't eat as I used to, I don't have as many flare-ups (my triggers were greasy foods, spicy foods and skipping meals).