Micronutrient deficiency after Bariatric Surgery Manifestation and Treatment

Micronutrient deficiency after Bariatric Surgery Manifestation and Treatment

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A person is said to be overweight or obese according to their BMI, a calculation based on height and weight. This obesity problem is in every country, affecting millions of people. Unfortunately, obese people are at risk of various health complications, especially diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. However, bariatric surgery can help those with severe obesity; it is an effective solution for weight loss. Bariatric surgeries are of different kinds, and almost every procedure involves manipulating the digestive system, limiting food consumption or absorbing nutrients.

Bariatric surgery offers many advantages, but it is a major surgery that may have post-surgical complications. Micronutrient deficiency is one such concern. It is common after bariatric surgery because, following surgery, patients will be on a particular diet and consume less food, which leads to less absorption of nutrients. Our overall health mostly depends on these micronutrients, and their deficiencies might result in various consequences. 

If you are thinking of bariatric surgery, having knowledge about these complications can help you to manage them and lead a healthy life post-surgery.

Micronutrients and their deficiency after bariatric surgery

Vitamins and minerals are the micronutrients that are essential for proper body functioning. They play a major role in producing enzymes, hormones, and various other elements in the body. Micronutrients are crucial for development and growth. So when your body doesn’t get sufficient vitamins and minerals, it is called micronutrient deficiency.  

Vitamins like B12, D, A, E, K, and folate and minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc are the common micronutrients affected following bariatric surgery. 

Micronutrient deficiencies can cause mild to major complications, ranging from fatigue to affecting the nervous system.

Also read: Can Bariatric Surgery cause Nutritional deficiencies? 

Signs of micronutrient deficiency following bariatric procedures

The signs and symptoms vary depending on the specific nutrient, which is insufficient in the body.

• Symptoms of iron deficiency include fatigue, skin that might become pale and breathing problems
• Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include tingling sensations, especially in hands & feet, problems with memory, and tiredness.
• In severe cases, vitamin B12 deficiency can cause neurological problems and megaloblastic anemia.
• Symptoms of vitamin D and calcium deficiency include bone problems and muscle weakness
• Symptoms of folate deficiency include anemia, mouth sores and inability to concentrate
• Symptoms of vitamin A, E, and K deficiencies include night blindness, dry skin, and delayed wound healing.
• Symptoms of zinc deficiency include hair loss, impaired immune functions, and slow wound healing.

Complications of micronutrient deficiency

• Neurological problems
• Cognitive issues
• Osteoporosis 
• Easy fractures.
• Muscle weakness.
• Neural tube defects in pregnant women
• Anemia 
• Impair the blood clotting abilities
• Reduced tolerance to physical activities

Causes of micronutrient deficiency after bariatric surgery

Many factors contribute to nutritional deficiencies after bariatric surgery. It might be the procedure itself, diet changes, lifestyle changes, etc., or a combination of any of them.

Certain weight loss procedures (gastric bypass) alter the digestive tract where nutrient absorption takes place. In such cases, reduced nutrient absorption is inevitable.

The stomach size is reduced in bariatric procedures, limiting the consumption of food. This may lead to reduced nutrient values required by your body.

Weight loss procedures can change the production and functions of digestive enzymes like bile and pancreatic enzymes. This can alter the absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K.

A strict dietary guideline is given to bariatric patients where certain foods need to be avoided for a period of time. Those foods might be rich in necessary micronutrients, and not consuming them increases the risk of deficiency. 

Certain weight loss procedures (duodenal switch) intentionally induce limited nutrient absorption, which leads to malabsorption.

How to treat micronutrient deficiency developed after bariatric surgery?

Micronutrient deficiencies can be fixed easily, but they require proactive management. The following actions can help you with micronutrient deficiency.

Nutritional supplements

You may be prescribed to take supplements after surgery to meet the nutritional needs of your body. Some supplements are given orally (multivitamin tablets, iron tablets, or vitamin tablets), while some are administered through injections (B12) or in sublingual forms.

Your doctors will suggest which supplements to be taken based on your condition. 

Dietary Modifications

Over time, when you are allowed to take solid food after surgery, you have to make a diet plan with nutrient-rich foods to improve the micronutrient intake. For iron, consume lean meats, beans, and spinach. For calcium, consume leafy greens and low-fat dairy products. Eggs, fish, etc. are vitamin B12. 

Regular monitoring and guidance

Periodic tests will help to assess nutrient levels. Under professional guidance, you modify supplementation as needed.

Stay in touch with dietitians and bariatric surgeons for a personalised strategy to manage deficiencies.

Lifestyle changes

Smoking and drinking alcohol can reduce nutrient absorption and interfere with metabolism.

Experts say that prevention is the key. So if you are undergoing bariatric surgery, be knowledgeable and follow your surgeon’s guidelines to prevent micronutrient deficiency. It is common and manageable with proper supplementation and dietary adjustments. Staying committed during rehab is very important for overall success.

If you are planning for bariatric surgery and looking for the best bariatric surgeon with the highest success rate, schedule a consultation with Dr. Venugopal Pareek. He has nearly 20 years of experience as a weight loss surgeon in Hyderabad. Call at +91 91777 77715 for appointments.