Nutritional Management After Bariatric Surgery

Abstract

Despite benefits to health, long-term nutritional deficiencies have been reported in patients following bariatric surgery. These deficiencies may occur after any of the bariatric procedures and are usually the consequences of untreated preexisting deficiencies, food intolerances, reduced dietary intake, malabsorption, and nonadherence with diet and supplement recommendations. The most commonly encountered deficiencies are those of iron, vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, and folate. However, deficiencies in protein, fat-soluble vitamins, thiamine, zinc, and copper may also occur. Patients need to follow a balanced diet that is low in fat and sugar, adopt new eating behaviors that will minimize gastrointestinal problems, and take a complete multivitamin and mineral supplement for long term. After every bariatric procedure, routine biochemical monitoring should be carried out and deficiencies treated accordingly. Longterm follow-up is imperative to minimize potential problems. The specialist dietitian has an important role in supporting the patient, both short-and long-term, to make the necessary dietary and lifestyle changes that will achieve a healthy and successful weight loss.