Vitamins For Weight Loss Surgery

Surgery is a time when the body is under intense emotional and physical stress. Stress is a powerful force that can hinder numerous processes in the body from simple digestion, to ability to heal. When planning the diet after weight loss surgery, simple focus on dietary health and emotional optimism can reduce instances of infection, lessen bodily stress, and promote healing. Heavy foods in large amounts will be difficult to process. A physician or nutritionist can recommend personalized ways to prepare food that is easier to digest and assimilate after weight loss surgery. Nutritionally, at this time the diet should focus on nutrients, which will help rebuild, regenerate cells, encourage immune function and provide energy and emotional happiness.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that has many functions in the body. Some of its uses include aiding in cell reproduction, supporting the health of the immune system and healing wounds. The form of vitamin A that performs these functions comes from animal sources and is called retinol. Retinol is found in organ meats such as beef or chicken liver, eggs, and fish oil. The second variation of vitamin A is called beta-carotene. This form of the vitamin is beneficial after weight loss surgery for its antioxidant qualities to promote healing and restore health. Beta-carotene is found in yellow and orange vegetables such as carrots and squash. Vitamin A is available as an oral supplement; however, ingesting too much can be toxic and may eventually result in death. Consult a physician or nutritionist before starting to supplement with this vitamin.

Vitamin C

Immune function is important after weight loss surgery for guarding against infections and other bacteria that may cause complications during healing. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that provides support to the immune system, as well as having detoxifying qualities in the blood. Vitamin C also promotes the production of collagen, which is needed to heal the incision. After surgery, it is necessary to replenish vitamin C that is lost during the stress of surgery. Vitamin C is found in foods such as strawberries and oranges.

Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral, which is vital to tissue healing and immune function through its interaction with various enzymes in the body. Zinc is the second most abundant mineral in the body and is found in every cell. According to the University of Maryland's Medical Center, zinc has been used since ancient times to help heal wounds. It is also cited as having a role in the immune system, blood clotting and thyroid function which helps with stress reduction. Only a small amount of zinc is needed, so oral supplementation is not usually recommended without the instruction of a physician. Consult a physician or nutritionist for instructions to ensure your body has a good supply of this mineral after weight loss surgery. Zinc can be found in foods such as red meat, fish and poultry.