Recovering Post-op, No Workout, Smaller Deficit, Losing Weight?

[HeatherECraig]

Hi, there. 

I've been actively using the app, working out 4 to 5 days a week and losing weight slowly. Since this time last fall, I've lost about 40 pounds. 

I had my gallbladder removed Aug 19 and while I didn't eat fried, fatty food because of my symptoms, but being in recovery, I've obviously not been working out and I've not been eating at the recommended deficit, generally right at my calorie burn or within a couple hundred calories. I did return to work after one week. 

Yet, I've managed to lose a few pounds and I'd fully expected to gain a couple.

Is there any science to explain this?  

[SunsetRunner]

Hi @HeatherECraig - Congratulations on the weight loss. And I’m happy you got thru the gall bladder surgery well. Here is a possible explanation for the weight loss. I found it doing a Google search for this question: 

While recovering from surgery, do you burn extra calories?

“After surgery, you actually need to consume more calories, because your body requires energy to heal. According to the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, you'll need to consume about 15 to 20 calories per pound of body weight.”

[HeatherECraig]

Hi! Thank you for that info--it makes complete sense! 

[HeatherECraig]

Can anyone give an idea as to how long one experiences this? 

[Julia_G]

Hi, @HeatherECraig , although I don’t know how long one can count on experiencing this initial weight loss following surgery, recent studies suggest that longer term (1-2 years post gall bladder surgery) weight gain is more likely.  The possible explanation for this is because once released from acute symptoms, and the inevitable results of the discomforts of surgery, many patients feel comfortable with eating (in a way they might not have for quite a long time) and tend instead to gain weight. 

[Dominique]

First of all, congrats for your impressive weight loss prior to the cystectomy! Now that one month has elapsed, have you recovered to the point you can return to your previous routines, including working out? Do you intend to carry on with weight loss or to maintain your new weight?  You may have noticed there are several other topics that mention how having one’s gallbladder removed tended to cause weight gain, or made it very difficult to lose weight. Therefore it would be interesting to hear about your experience, since you had a good momentum prior to the procedure.   

[SunsetRunner]

Hi @HeatherECraig - Just stopping by to ask how you are doing? Feeling better, I hope. 

[HeatherECraig]

Hi, Carol-B. I'm doing great--thank you for asking!

Heather E. Craig, MA

Voice/Piano Instructor

When the oceans rise and thunders roar

I will soar with you above the storm

Father, You are King over the flood

I will be still and know You are God

Moderator edit: word choice