Bariatric Vitamins: Your Guide to What You May Need After Surgery

If you are considering weight-loss surgery, you should know that there are many things you need to do to maintain your health and achieve your goals. One of the most important aspects of post-surgery care is taking bariatric vitamins. But what are they, and why are they so important?

Bariatric vitamins are crucial for people who have had weight-loss surgery because they help the body absorb nutrients. They also help to prevent deficiencies, which can lead to serious health problems.

There are a few different types of bariatric vitamins, and which ones you need will depend on the type of surgery you had and your individual history and medications. However, some of the most common vitamins that bariatric patients need include multivitamins, calcium, vitamin B-12, and iron.

Multivitamins

Multivitamins are important because they help the body get the nutrients it needs from food. Bariatric patients often need to take them because their bodies may not be able to absorb all of the nutrients from food due to the surgery. You'll also be eating a lot less and wont be able to get all of the nutrients your body needs from the decreased portion sizes. Complete bariatric multivitamins simply contain a combination of vitamins and minerals that make it easier to fill in your nutritional gaps.

Calcium

Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth. It is also necessary for proper muscle function and nerve transmission. Bariatric patients often need to take calcium supplements because they are at risk for developing osteoporosis. Additionally, bariatric surgery can cause changes in hormone levels that can lead to bone loss. For these reasons, it is important for bariatric patients to make sure they are getting enough calcium through diet or supplements. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and tofu. Talk to your doctor or dietitian about how much calcium you need per day and the best way to get enough of this important nutrient.

Vitamin B-12

Vitamin B-12 is important for a variety of functions in the body, including energy production, cell growth, and neurological function. Bariatric patients often need vitamin B-12 injections because their bodies are unable to absorb it from food. B-12 is a water soluble vitamin that is naturally found in animal products such as meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. It is also added to some fortified foods such as breakfast cereals and soy milk. B-12 is an essential vitamin that helps the body make red blood cells and DNA. It is also important for neurological function. 

Most people get enough B-12 from their diet. However, some groups of people are at risk for B-12 deficiency. This includes people who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, people with pernicious anemia, and people who have had bariatric surgery.

People with B-12 deficiency may experience fatigue, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, megaloblastic anemia, nerve problems, and dementia. If you are considering bariatric surgery, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to prevent B-12 deficiency. These steps may include taking a daily supplement or receiving regular injections of B-12.

Iron

Iron is important for carrying oxygen in the blood and can be found in red meat, poultry, fish, beans, leafy green vegetables, and iron-fortified foods. Bariatric patients might need iron supplements if they have trouble getting enough from their diet. Without enough iron, patients can experience fatigue,shortness of breath, and an increased risk of infection. For this reason, it is important for bariatric patients to take iron supplements and eat iron-rich foods such as lean red meat, dark leafy greens, and beans. By doing so, they can help to prevent iron deficiency and maintain their health after surgery.

Vitamin D

One important consideration for bariatric patients is their vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is essential for bone health and helps the body to absorb calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. It also helps to regulate blood pressure and maintain a healthy immune system. Bariatric surgery can lead to vitamin D deficiency. Bariatric patients are often deficient in other nutrients, such as calcium and iron. This can further contribute to bone loss. For these reasons, it is important for bariatric patients to take a vitamin D supplement and to eat foods that are rich in vitamin D, such as fortified milk and fatty fish. Regular monitoring of vitamin D levels is also recommended. By taking these steps, bariatric patients can safeguard their health and avoid complications from vitamin D deficiency.

If you have had or are considering having bariatric surgery, talk to your doctor about which vitamins and supplements you need to take. They can help you create a plan that is right for you. Taking the proper vitamins and supplements is an important part of maintaining your health after weight-loss surgery. For more information about weight-loss surgery visit our website www.DrWadiwala.com.