Multivitamins
After any type of weight loss surgery, including gastric sleeve or RNY gastric bypass, vitamins are very important to maintaining a healthy mind and body. All bariatric patients will be recommended to take a multivitamin to prevent any nutrient deficiencies.
Because of the body’s sensitivities and the liquid diet after surgery, a soft chew or drinkable kind will work best. These vitamins are often most easily absorbed into the body. Avoid Flintstones children’s vitamins as they are designed for children and not for adults who have issues with malabsorption. They will not provide the proper nutrients the body needs after bariatric surgery.
Take a multivitamin containing the following daily:
- Thiamin: 12 - 50 mg/day
- Zinc: 8 - 22 mg/day
- Preferably contains Vitamin D
Vitamin B-Complex & Vitamin B12
B vitamins are vital for the body’s most optimal health. However, these vitamins often are not absorbed as well after weight loss surgery. Take a B-complex tablet once daily.
The body also requires Vitamin B-12. However, it isn’t needed as often as the body often stores it for a longer period. Vitamin B-12 can be taken by tablet (once weekly) under the tongue or by a nasal spray (less often).
Vitamin B-12 Deficiency Symptoms:
- Extreme tiredness
- Feeling faint
- Pale skin
- Noticeable heartbeats (palpitations)
Vitamin B-12 recommended doses
- Sublingual: 350 - 500 mcg/day
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is known for its healing properties. It also helps prevent infection in the body. Take 500 mg each day with one’s iron vitamins to help increase calcium levels in the body and promote better bone health.
Calcium
Ultimately, there are two different types of Calcium – Calcium Citrate and Calcium Carbonate. Citrate is most easily absorbed. However, it is still important to take it regularly. It can be found in a health food store. A doctor may recommend a chewable calcium supplement such as Tums.
Also, it’s imperative never to take a calcium supplement in combination with Iron. The two do interfere with the absorption of the other, so take the two at least two hours apart. Most doctors suggest 500-600 mg of calcium two to three times daily.
Check out this helpful blog on Calcium Deficiency!
Compare: Calcium Citrate vs. Calcium Carbonate
Calcium Citrate supplement recommended dose:
- 1200 - 2400 mg/day
- Can be in divided dosages taken throughout the day
Iron
Iron is important for oxygen transport throughout the body. Iron is perhaps the most important supplement for menstruating women or those with anemia. Take Iron once daily with 500 mg of Vitamin C to help the body to absorb it better.
Remember never to take an iron supplement with Calcium as the two interfere with the other. A dietician can suggest a vitamin schedule ensure maximum success when making all of the required vitamins and minerals after weight loss surgery.
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