Post Bariatric Surgery Supplementation: Key to a Successful Recovery
Bariatric surgery is a procedure that transforms lives by aiding in weight loss and improving overall health. However, after the operation, the body experiences changes in nutrient absorption, making the use of supplements essential to prevent deficiencies and ensure proper recovery.
In this blog, we explain why supplements are indispensable after bariatric surgery, which ones are the most important, and how to incorporate them into your daily routine to maintain your well-being.
Why are supplements necessary after bariatric surgery?
Bariatric procedures, such as gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and intragastric balloon, reduce the size of the stomach and, in some cases, alter the digestive tract. As a result, the body absorbs fewer nutrients from food, increasing the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
Supplements ensure that the body receives the essential vitamins and minerals needed to:
✅ Prevent malnutrition and chronic fatigue.
✅ Maintain bone, muscle, and immune system health.
✅ Promote healing and postoperative recovery.
✅ Avoid hair loss and muscle mass loss.
Essential supplements after bariatric surgery
1. Complete Bariatric Multivitamin
Multivitamins specifically designed for bariatric patients contain higher doses of essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring optimal absorption.
🔹 Recommended example: Bariatric Fusion Multivitamin®, designed to meet all post-surgery nutritional needs.
2. Vitamin B12
The absorption of vitamin B12 decreases drastically after surgery, which can cause extreme fatigue, weakness, and neurological problems.
3. Iron with Vitamin C
Iron is essential to prevent anemia, a common deficiency after surgery. Vitamin C helps improve its absorption.
🔹 Especially recommended for women of childbearing age and patients who have had gastric bypass.
4. Calcium with Vitamin D
Calcium is vital for bone health, and vitamin D enhances its absorption.
🔹 It is recommended to take calcium citrate instead of calcium carbonate, as it is better absorbed in bariatric patients.
5. Protein Powder
Adequate protein intake is key for muscle recovery and to avoid loss of lean mass.
🔹 Protein shakes like those from Bariatric Fusion® provide an optimal amount of protein in an easy-to-digest formula.
Tips for effective supplementation
✔️ Follow the instructions of your doctor or nutritionist specialized in bariatric surgery.
✔️ Take your supplements daily, without exceptions.
✔️ Prefer supplements specifically designed for bariatric patients.
✔️ Divide the intake of calcium and iron to improve absorption.
✔️ Get blood tests regularly to monitor your vitamin and mineral levels.
Conclusion
Taking supplements after bariatric surgery is not optional, but a fundamental part of your recovery process and long-term well-being. An adequate supplementation plan will help you avoid nutritional deficiencies, maintain your energy, and protect your bone, muscle, and immune health.
Do not neglect your nutrition after surgery. Make sure to have the best supplements and always follow your specialist's recommendations to achieve a healthy and vibrant life.