Written by Sarah Polk, MS, RDN, CSOWM, LD

Probiotics are good bacteria that help keep your gut healthy. After bariatric surgery, incorporating probiotics can offer various advantages. Research indicates that integrating probiotics may aid in weight loss, enhance digestion, alleviate symptoms like bloating, burping, abdominal pain, and heartburn, and even reduce stress. Probiotics are generally considered safe, with minimal to no side effects experienced by most individuals.

You can naturally get probiotics from foods or choose a supplement. Due to the reduced portions after bariatric surgery, it’s unlikely to consume sufficient probiotics from whole foods. Good sources include cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, sauerkraut, miso soup, kimchi, and kombucha. Consider integrating a probiotic supplement into your post-surgery routine, as recommended by your surgeon or dietitian. Explore the Bariatric Fusion^Ⓡ Probiotic soft chew supplements available at our office.

Source: BariEDucated: An Integrated Health Guide for Dietitians and Behavioral Health Specialists Caring for Bariatric Surgery Patients by Chaundra Evans, RD, LDN and Kelly Broadwater, LPA, LCMHC