Will I Have to Take Vitamins and Minerals After Weight Loss Surgery?

There are many life changes to be expected after weight loss surgery, including the need to maintain a proper regimen of supplementary vitamins and minerals. Taking these dietary supplements is required after a gastric bypass, duodenal switch, and other bariatric procedures because these treatments cause patients to eat and absorb less. Not as many nutrients and vitamins are being ingested by the body, creating a risk of nutrient deficiencies that may lead to painful symptoms and health problems if left unchecked.

With malabsorptive weight loss surgeries like a gastric bypass and duodenal switch in particular, the very nature of the procedures necessitates supplementary vitamins and minerals. Malabsorptive procedures achieve weight loss, in part, by rerouting a portion of the small intestine and limiting the amount of nutrients absorbed by the body. The part of the small intestine omitted from this route is where calories, fat, and nutrients from food are absorbed, creating a need to get these vital nutrients and minerals elsewhere. While nutrient deficiencies do occur after bariatric surgery, keeping up with follow-up evaluations and yearly labs can help prevent health issues caused by insufficient nutrient levels. Conditions caused by nutrient deficiencies can include (but are not limited to) anemia, eye and vision problems, neurological disorders, and poor muscle health, among other debilitating health issues.

According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), problems related to a nutrient deficiency after weight loss surgery are very rare and easily prevented as long as patients keep up with follow-up appointments and stay on top of taking their vitamins and minerals. It’s also common for a patient’s nutrient levels to be checked regularly following bariatric surgery to ensure everything remains within normal ranges.

Fortunately for patients in the Dallas and DFW areas, our practice makes it easier than ever to obtain the necessary minerals and vitamins after bariatric surgery with our convenient online shop. Dr. Hossein Bagshahi and your medical team will provide you with ample information about aftercare and the various supplements you need to stay healthy based on your procedure and nutrient levels. In general, most patients require a multivitamin as well as calcium, iron, and vitamin D.

Knowing what to expect after weight loss surgery can be daunting, but rest assured that our double board-certified bariatric surgeon Hossein Bagshahi, MD will be there to help you navigate the entire process. Contact our North Dallas office for more information or to schedule an initial consultation.