This article will explain what vitamins are, why they are important, and how to best supplement them after having bariatric surgery.
Put simply, vitamins are
(i) organic compounds
(ii) not produced by human body
(iii) essential for life sustainability and
(iv) consumed in small quantities through food or supplementation.
Vitamins are vital for the sustainability of life. Vitamins help the body build up its immune system; help cells in growth and development, and helps organs do their jobs. For example, Vitamin K helps in clotting of blood when there are cuts /scrapes in the body, Vitamin A helps in well being of the eyes and Vitamin D helps in synthesis of mineral called calcium which helps us have strong bones.
Vitamins are fundamental for life and living beings. They are essential for growth and development of multicellular organisms. Vitamins regulate appetite and hunger, brain activity, nutrient absorption, metabolic rate, fat and sugar metabolism, hormone function, energy storage, and more.
Bariatric procedures both alters the way food is processed and often causes the stomach to reject nutrient rich food. Fortunately, there are still ways overcome these deficiencies.
Why are they important especially after bariatric procedure like gastric bypass or DS?
Studies show that patients who have developed metabolic deficiencies after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass responded well to postoperative supplements and the risk of developing micronutrient deficiencies decreased over time. Studies further show that adherence to a strict vitamin and dietary regime as suggested by most surgeons, protects patients from developing severe metabolic deficiencies after RYGB and BP.
It is always wise to prevent a nutritional deficiency through proper supplementation than to treat it afterwards.
What Can I Do After Weight Loss Surgery?
Lifelong vitamins and minerals are VITAL to prevent deficiencies since your food consumption and/pr absoption is dramatically reduced. Certain vitamins are more important for those adjusting to life after weight loss surgery.
While patients should also seek out specific vitamin supplements specifically for patients, such as Bariatric Advantage, below are some general guidelines and information. *There are general guidelines - Please check with your Primary Care Physician to see if your particular situation requires different or extra vitamins and supplements.
Vital Vitamins
- Adult Strength Multi-Vitamin
- Calcium Citrate w/ Vitamin D or Bone Health Blend (1500-1800 mg a day)
- B-12 (1000 mcg a day. Look for Methylcobalamin first, a better active version of B-12)
- Iron (males up 18mg a day, demales 29mg)
Supplement Guidelines
- Do not take Calcium/Magnesium and Iron at the same time
- Do not take fiber products with your vitamins
- Do not take vitamins/supplements on an empy stomache
- Use chewable, liquid, gummies or powders,
- Start right after surgery.
- Balances trillions of bacteria in our gut.
- Promotes healthy immune system.
- Helps with digestion and nutrient absoption
- Promotes bowel functionality
- Fish Oils, Flaxseeds, Hemp Hearts, & Chia Seeds
- Balances hormones, Protects Brain, Enhances Skin and Eyes
- Promotes bowel functionality
Additional Supplements
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)
- Magnesium (Healthy bones, teeth, & skin. Promotes sleep. Take in evening with Calcium)
Although vitamins are important for everyone, they are especially Vitamins are critical for patients undergoing or undergone a bariatric procedure. Patients after a bariatric procedure should pay special attention to nutrients they put in their bodies. They should also take specifically formulated supplements, such as Bariatric Advantage, for post-bariatric conditioning of their bodies. Nutritional education in bariatric surgery is important for every patient in order to achieve healthful long-term weight loss.
For more information about the Gastric Sleeve and other weight loss options please call BeLiteWeight today!
