Food intake restriction is one of the main reasons why weight loss surgery is such a powerful tool. However, because bariatric patients will be reducing the amount of food they eat after surgery, they are at risk of suffering from nutritional deficiencies. This is why supplementation is key for a healthy recovery and a successful weight loss journey.
Due to the large variety of supplements and vitamins available on the market, choosing one can sometimes be overwhelming. Don’t worry! Diabetes Obesity Clinic’s Quick Guide for Supplementation will make it easy to identify what you need in this new and very exciting stage in your life.
For starters, what will you need?
- Multivitamin
- Calcium
- Biotin
These supplements come in capsule, powder, liquid, patch, or tablet form. Although any of these presentations are good for your body, powder, liquid, and patch supplements are recommended for bariatric patients to avoid problems while swallowing.
Choosing your multivitamin
When looking for your ideal multivitamin, make sure you read the label. You should be looking for a brand that includes a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals, especially Iron (at least 18mg) , Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and Zinc.
Next is calcium
Calcium will take care of your bones. Be sure to take at least 1500 mg per day. Depending on the brand, you will be able to split that 1500 mg in two or three doses, so you can spread your calcium intake throughout the day.
Last but not least, biotin
Biotin is an excellent supplement that can be added to your post-operative diet. It will help prevent an excessive loss of hair (remember: mild hair loss is a normal, temporary part of weight loss surgery). However, this is totally optional. Biotin is naturally found in liver, eggs, fish, meat, nuts, seeds and vegetables. If you follow your diet correctly, you shouldn’t worry too much about Biotin deficiency.
Failing to supplement after bariatric surgeries can cause nutritional problems that will lead to fatigue, headaches, fuzzy memory, dizziness, loss of hair, brittle nails, and general unwellness. We want patients to have a speedy recovery and the best post-op experience possible, that is why we stress the importance of including these supplements in your daily routine.
Furthermore, nothing will keep you better nourished than following your post-op diet according to your guide and nutritionist’s instructions. We aim for you to be getting most of your nutrients from food once you reach the 5th stage of your post-op diet. Supplements and vitamins will remain as a helpful tool in your daily schedule after that.
Remember that our nutrition department is available to all patients who need advice or help. If you have questions about a supplement brand and would like to verify that it’s a good option for you, don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment or phone call!
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