Bariatric multivitamins are designed for patients who have undergone weight loss surgery, such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. They typically contain higher doses of key vitamins and minerals to prevent nutrient deficiencies.
Bariatric complete multivitamin surgery changes your digestion and limits the amount of nutrients your body can absorb from food alone, even when eating a balanced diet. This means you will need to take vitamin and mineral supplements daily.
The type of multivitamin you choose depends on the type of bariatric surgery you have had, as well as the recommended dietary guidelines from your doctor or dietitian. Complete bariatric multivitamins usually include vitamin B-12, calcium with Vitamin D, iron and Vitamin C.
Vitamin B-12 is necessary for proper brain function and to help your immune system recover from the surgery. Many bariatric surgery procedures make it more difficult to get enough vitamin B12 from food, so it is advisable to take a B-12 supplement after surgery.
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Calcium is critical for your bones, muscles and nerves. You will likely need two to three doses of calcium daily, depending on your surgeon’s recommendation.
Iron is also important for post-surgery recovery, so you will need to take 45-60 mg of iron per day. Most bariatric multivitamins have at least 45 mg of iron.
Aside from your multivitamin and calcium, you should also take vitamin D as needed for good bone health. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and also aids in preventing osteoporosis.