Vitamins
Bariatric Vitamins
What are the best vitamins to take after bariatric surgery?
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Taking the right supplements are essential for long-term success and maintaining nutritional status after surgery. Because you aren't eating as much food now, high-quality vitamins are necessary to ensure the body gets everything it needs. Your bariatric dietitian will help you decide which vitamins are best based on your blood work, type of surgery, and your budget.
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There are multiple brands of bariatric vitamins available. We have discount codes available for some brands.
At Pivot, we meticulously select the vitamins we endorse, conducting thorough research to ensure that we provide you with the highest quality options while simultaneously maintaining affordability.
Our commitment to excellence means that we prioritize both the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the supplements we recommend.
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Why are bariatric vitamins important?
Bariatric vitamins are necessary for all post-op patients to prevent deficiencies. All procedures are restrictive, meaning your stomach is smaller and you cannot eat as much food to keep your vitamin levels up. Some procedures, like gastric bypass or duodenal switch also cause malabsorption, making it harder for your body to absorb the same amount of vitamins as before.
To avoid malnutrition, you will be required to take bariatric vitamins after surgery. Bariatric vitamins keep you healthy and are essential to your overall health.
Vitamin Recommendations for Post Bariatric Surgery Patients
Keep in mind these are general recommendations and change depending on the patient. Others may be recommended.
Gastric Bypass
Bariatric multivitamin with iron
Calcium with Vitamin D
Gastric Sleeve
Bariatric multivitamin
Calcium with Vitamin D
Gastric Band Surgery
Complete multivitamin
Calcium with Vitamin D
Long-term health complications of weight-loss surgery can include
Anemia from a deficiency of iron or B12
Neurological signs (memory loss or irritability) from a lack of B12
Bone & kidney disease from body changes in absorption of calcium and vitamin D
Bariatric vs Over-the-Counter Vitamins
When choosing a vitamin, it’s essential that you choose one specifically formulated for individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery. Taking prenatal or Flinstones vitamins is not recommended.
Over-the-counter (OTC) vitamins do not meet the needs of a bariatric surgery patient, especially for those already prone to deficiencies before surgery. OTC vitamins are often lacking in B-12, Vitamin D, thiamine (B1), iron, and other nutrients that can cause deficiencies and other problems down the road.
Bariatric patients are more likely to become deficient in vitamins B-12, thiamine (B1), and iron. If you have a duodenal switch, you are more likely to be deficient in fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
The Key to Success
The key is actually taking your vitamins. It is common for patients to forget to take vitamins or not realize how important they are until deficiencies have already developed.
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Switch to a Special Bariatric Vitamin
If you aren’t used to taking vitamins before surgery, we recommend you start taking an over-the-counter multivitamin once a day to create a routine of taking vitamins. Once you have surgery, you must transition to a bariatric-specific vitamin. These vitamins are specially formulated to meet your needs with higher doses of specific nutrients to fill nutritional gaps after surgery.
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Maintain your Vitamin Routine
It may be helpful to set alarms/reminders on your phone. If you use Baritastic, vitamin reminders can be set up in the app. Keeping your vitamin routine simple will also help you stick to a routine – we recommend choosing one-a-day vitamin options when possible. Remember, that vitamins are designed to supplement your diet, so it is still important that you eat a nutritious diet in addition to taking your vitamins.
Finally, bariatric vitamins are for a lifetime. Your stomach and digestive tract are permanently changed, so you will continue to have a risk of deficiency.
FAQ
Why do I need to take vitamins after bariatric surgery?What vitamins should I take after bariatric surgery?When should I start taking vitamins after surgery?How long do I need to take vitamin supplements after bariatric surgery?Can I get all the necessary vitamins from my diet alone?Are there any specific vitamin brands or formulations recommended?How often should I take my vitamin supplements?Can I take all my vitamins at once?What are the signs of a vitamin deficiency after bariatric surgery?Are there any potential side effects of vitamin supplements?Can I switch or stop taking my vitamin supplements without consulting my healthcare provider?Can I take over-the-counter vitamins, or do I need prescription supplements?How can I ensure I'm taking the right vitamins for my unique needs?Are there any interactions between vitamins and medications I should be aware of?Can I get personalized vitamin recommendations for my specific surgery type?
FAQ
Why do I need to take vitamins after bariatric surgery?
After bariatric surgery, your body's ability to absorb nutrients is significantly reduced. Vitamin supplements are essential to prevent nutrient deficiencies and maintain overall health.
What vitamins should I take after bariatric surgery?
Commonly recommended vitamins include a comprehensive multivitamin, calcium with Vitamin D, iron with Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Vitamin B12. Your healthcare provider will tailor recommendations to your specific needs.
When should I start taking vitamins after surgery?
Typically, you should start taking vitamin supplements during the blended food phase of your post-surgery diet, as recommended by your healthcare team.
How long do I need to take vitamin supplements after bariatric surgery?
Lifelong supplementation is usually recommended to prevent nutrient deficiencies, as your body's ability to absorb nutrients will remain altered after surgery.
Can I get all the necessary vitamins from my diet alone?
While a healthy diet is essential, it may not provide sufficient nutrients due to reduced food intake and absorption. Supplements are necessary to fill the nutritional gaps.
Are there any specific vitamin brands or formulations recommended?
We recommend high-quality vitamin brands that are well-absorbed and suitable for post-bariatric surgery patients. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
How often should I take my vitamin supplements?
Follow the dosing instructions provided on the supplement packaging or as recommended by your healthcare provider. Typically, they are taken daily.
Can I take all my vitamins at once?
Some vitamins are best absorbed when taken separately, while others can be taken together. It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's guidance on timing and combinations.
What are the signs of a vitamin deficiency after bariatric surgery?
Symptoms can vary depending on the deficiency but may include fatigue, weakness, hair loss, brittle nails, anemia, and more. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare team can help detect deficiencies early.
Are there any potential side effects of vitamin supplements?
When taken as directed, side effects are generally minimal. However, it's important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Can I switch or stop taking my vitamin supplements without consulting my healthcare provider?
It's essential to consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your supplement regimen. They will assess your specific needs and adjust your supplements accordingly. Remember, we're here to help.
Can I take over-the-counter vitamins, or do I need prescription supplements?
Over-the-counter vitamins can be suitable, but it's crucial to choose the right formulations. Your healthcare provider will guide you on whether prescription supplements are necessary.
How can I ensure I'm taking the right vitamins for my unique needs?
Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider and monitoring your nutrient levels through blood tests will help ensure you're on the right track with your supplements.
Are there any interactions between vitamins and medications I should be aware of?
Some medications can interfere with vitamin absorption. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you're taking to avoid potential interactions.
Can I get personalized vitamin recommendations for my specific surgery type?
Yes, your healthcare provider will tailor your vitamin recommendations based on the type of bariatric surgery you've undergone and your individual health status. We include this as a part of our programs to ensure you are receiving the best treatment possible.
Remember, these FAQs and responses should serve as general guidance, and it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations regarding vitamin supplementation after bariatric surgery.
Remember, these FAQs and responses should serve as general guidance, and it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations regarding vitamin supplementation after bariatric surgery.
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