Bariatric surgery is a tool designed to help with weight loss. As with any other tool, it must be used correctly to achieve the results that an individual desires. It involves a person committing to a new way of living in order to achieve their goals. Along with diet and exercise, vitamins are also an important part of living a healthy lifestyle.
Bariatric surgery significantly reduces the amount of food that a person is able to tolerate. In doing so, the nutrients that a person receives from the food they eat is greatly reduced. Taking the recommended vitamin and mineral supplementation after surgery allows for a person to receive adequate amounts of the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Post bariatric surgery vitamin and mineral recommendations:
Multivitamin:
-it should provide 100% of the Daily Value for the following: thiamin, folic acid, vitamin B12, biotin, iron, zinc, copper
-chewable vitamins are recommended (avoid gummy vitamins)

Calcium:
-choose a calcium citrate supplement with vitamin D and magnesium
-recommended dose is 1,200 to 1,500mg per day, divided into two 600mg doses, separated by at least 2 hours and taken separately from iron

Vitamin D
-recommended dose is 3,000IU.day (total amount from vitamin D supplements, multivitamin, and calcium supplement) or amount needed based on lab values

Vitamin B12
-recommended dose is 350-500mcg per day as sublingual/nasal supplement or 1,000mg per month intramuscularly

Signs of possible vitamin and mineral deficiency
-numbness and tingling of extremities
-lower leg swelling
-fatigue
-brittle nails
-unusual craving for ice, dirt, or starch
-muscle weakness
-memory loss
-vision loss

Remember that these recommendations are a lifelong requirement. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you should contact your provider to be evaluated for a possible deficiency.

Questions or comments? Emily Kohls