Gastric bypass surgery is a tool used to achieve permanent weight loss. The Roux-en-Y is the most common procedure performed. The surgeon staples your stomach, creating a small pouch that allows food to bypass a section of your small intestine. Due to the small intestine bypass during the procedure, there is a concern for malabsorption of calcium, iron and vitamin B-12, which the small intestine absorbs. Following surgery, patients often need vitamin and protein supplements to promote optimum health.
Protein
Protein aids in wound-healing, promotes healthy hair and skin, and promotes lean body mass. Individual protein needs vary, but usually you need at least 80 grams per day. At minimum, 50 to 60 grams per day for women and 60 to 70 for men. Whey protein is a good choice for a protein supplement since it is easy to digest and absorb. Several whey protein supplements are available at any store that sells supplements. You should also incorporate protein in the diet with foods such as chicken, turkey, fish, and low-fat cheese.
Multivitamin
You will need a multivitamin after bypass surgery due to the higher risk for nutrient malabsorption. A chewable multivitamin is the recommendation since patients cannot always take whole pills easily. Patients generally need one or two per day depending on the brand. Several vitamin shops provide bariatric vitamins and some will come in a liquid form, making it easier to take. A multivitamin that contains iron may be beneficial, since iron deficiency may also occur after bypass surgery.
Calcium
You also may need calcium supplements after surgery to prevent loss of bone mass and osteoporosis. Calcium also functions in blood clotting and soft tissue repair. Your doctor should determine whether you need calcium supplementation. Supplements such as calcium citrate provide extra calcium. A calcium supplement with vitamin D can also aid absorption.
Iron and Vitamin B-12
You may also need iron and vitamin B-12 to prevent both chronic anemia and iron-deficiency anemia. Iron comes in a chewable form and various dosages. Take vitamin B-12 as a sublingual pill, nasal spray, or as a shot given by your physician. The frequency you need to take vitamin B-12 will depend on dosage and the form.
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