Vitamin supplements

 

Why supplements?

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After obesity surgery, standard multivitamin supplements should be taken: The part of the stomach that is removed during a sleeve gastrectomy and excluded during a gastric bypass has a function in the absorption of certain vitamins. In a gastric bypass, a part of the small intestine is additionally 'bypassed', which also plays an important role in the absorption of some vitamins. Even with a balanced and varied diet, vitamin deficiencies often occur as a result.

 

From when and for how long?

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If there are no major problems on the first surgical check-up 3 weeks after surgery, vitamin supplements may be started from then on. In principle, these supplements should be taken for life. 

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Blood tests

 

In order to detect possible vitamin or mineral deficiencies in time, a blood test is performed at regular intervals in the first year after surgery, in parallel with the scheduled follow-up consultations. 

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- 3 months after surgery

- 6 months after surgery

- 1 year after surgery

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This blood test can be performed in the hospital or with your general practitiner. 

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From 1 year after surgery, further check-up blood sampling should be done annually.

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If these blood tests show deficiencies of certain vitamins or minerals, a temporary supplementation of vitamins will be given to replenish these deficiencies. 

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Which vitamins and minerals?

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The following vitamins and minerals, among others, are tested for possible deficiencies:

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- Iron (+transferrin, transferrin saturation and ferritin)

- Folic acid

- Vitamin A

- Vitamin B 12

- Vitamin D

- Vitamin E

- Phosphate

- Magnesium

- Calcium