Many people report experiencing changes in their sense of taste and smell after gastric bypass surgery. Some say that coffee tastes more bitter, while others say that they now find foods they used to enjoy repulsive. So, is this really a result of gastric bypass surgery? How are changes in taste and smell after gastric bypass surgery explained scientifically?
Why Do Taste and Smell Change?
Taste and smell changes after bariatric surgery are mostly related to hormonal and neurological changes. Gastric sleeve surgery not only reduces stomach volume but also affects the release of many hormones associated with the digestive system. In particular, ghrelin hormone levels—the hunger hormone—decrease significantly after gastric sleeve surgery. Ghrelin not only affects appetite but also taste and smell.
In addition, post-operative food intolerances, psychological effects (the process of adapting to a new body), and changes in sensory perception may occur due to medication use.
Which Foods Are Most Commonly Affected by Taste Changes?
Taste changes after gastric bypass surgery have been reported most frequently with the following foods:
- Coffee and tea: May be perceived as more bitter or stronger.
- Meat products: The taste of red meat in particular may become stronger, causing some individuals to feel nauseous.
- Dairy products: Taste perception may change in those who develop lactose intolerance.
- Eggs: The smell may be perceived as more pungent, causing nausea in some individuals.
- Sweets: Sensitivity to overly sweet flavors may increase.
- Spicy foods: Spiciness that was previously tolerated may now become unpleasant.
The changes on this list may vary from person to person. Some individuals may begin to enjoy foods they previously disliked, while others may experience the opposite.
What Do Scientific Studies Say?
Studies on changes in taste and smell indicate that this condition is quite common.
- In a study published in Obesity Surgery in 2016, 73% of individuals who underwent bariatric surgery reported changes in taste, while 42% reported differences in smell perception.
- Another study conducted in 2021 showed that these sensory changes usually appear within the first 6 months and mostly stabilize within 12-18 months.
- In addition, some neuroscientific studies suggest that taste and smell perception are restructured as a result of neuroplasticity, i.e., the adaptation of nerve cells, after gastric bypass surgery.
These data show that changes in taste and smell may be temporary, but can vary in duration and intensity from person to person.
How Does It Affect Food Choices?
Changes in taste and smell can directly affect an individual’s food preferences. Some foods that were previously perceived as healthy may cause nausea, while foods that may be harmful (e.g., salty snacks) may become more appealing.
This situation can negatively affect a person’s diet when their perception of food is impaired after gastric bypass surgery. For example:
- Excessive sensitivity to sweets may develop, preventing adequate energy intake.
- Insufficient protein intake may occur due to aversion to protein sources.
- Some main meals may be skipped due to sensitivity to smells.
At this point, it is very important to follow a personalized nutrition plan under the guidance of a dietitian.
How to Deal with This Situation?
Changes in taste and smell are often temporary, but in some people, this condition can last longer. The following steps can help make this process easier to manage:
- Slow and careful food introduction: Starting with small amounts when reintroducing foods that cause intolerance can be effective.
- Preferring cold foods: Since the smell of hot foods is more overpowering, it may be preferable to serve colder foods at first.
- Simplify spice use: Reducing spices may be necessary to reduce aromatic intensity.
- Change food preparation methods: Methods such as steaming or baking can help reduce the smell of foods.
- Keep a daily log: By noting how different foods make you feel, you can gradually achieve a better balance over time.
Practical Tips for Those Experiencing Changes in Taste
Here are some practical tips for individuals whose sense of taste and smell has changed:
- If you are bothered by the smell, increase ventilation and eat your food in a different room.
- Mellow foods with strong flavors by adding lemon juice or yogurt.
- Aromatic herbal teas increase fluid intake and provide mild flavor stimuli.
- Take protein supplements, but test your tolerance first by trying small amounts.
Conclusion: A Real Change?
Changes in taste and smell after gastric sleeve surgery are real and common. These changes are mostly temporary and return to normal within a few months. However, it is very important not to disrupt your diet during this process and not to neglect your protein and fluid intake.
When this process is managed with patience and expert support, taking into account individual differences, changes in sensory perception can be overcome without turning into long-term problems.
