5 Ways Tastes Change After Bariatric Surgery

It’s very common to hear people say, “my taste changed after bariatric surgery,” so it’s important to be prepared with a variety of protein shakes, soups, and other liquid options when you get home from the hospital.

Bariatric surgery alters the stomach and sometimes the digestive system, which can lead to changes that can influence taste.

Here are 5 ways that your tastes and preferences might change after bariatric surgery:

1. Decreased Appetite: Bariatric surgery reduces the size of your stomach, leading to smaller meals and lower calorie intake. You’ll feel satisfied with smaller portions, and your craving for certain high-calorie, high-sugar, or high-fat foods might diminish.
2. Higher Sensitivity: Some patients report an increased sensitivity to certain tastes, especially sweetness. Foods that were once tolerable might become overly sweet or intense in flavor.
3. Preference for Healthier Foods: After bariatric surgery, many people find that their preferences shift toward healthier foods. This could be due to physiological changes or psychological factors, as surgery often prompts a commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
4. Sensory Aversion: Some people develop an aversion to foods they used to enjoy before surgery. Your body could have a new response to certain flavors, textures, or smells.
5. Changes in Hormones: Bariatric surgery can lead to changes in hormone levels, including those related to hunger and satiety (such as ghrelin and leptin). These hormonal changes can influence how certain foods are perceived and how much you crave them.

Changes in taste are not the same for everyone. Patient experiences can vary widely and change again over time. 

So be prepared with a variety of healthy foods and be open to trying new things!