As you start your exciting journey towards a healthier lifestyle, it's super important to prioritize your health and nutrition, especially when it comes to micronutrients. You see, after weight loss surgery, there can be common deficiencies like vitamin B12, biotin, vitamin D, zinc, iron, selenium, and protein. This happens because your gastric pouch size is reduced, meaning your body absorbs fewer essential nutrients.

 

That's where supplementation comes in. It's absolutely necessary to address these nutritional needs. You know, sometimes we forget how important it is to take our vitamins and minerals. It's like when we forget to finish a course of antibiotics once we start feeling better. But hey, we have to remember that after bariatric surgery, our bodies go through changes that affect nutrient absorption. To avoid complications from deficiencies and ensure the success of your weight loss journey, sticking to a regular supplementation routine is a must.

 

Chances are, your surgical team has already talked to you about the possible malabsorption and the vitamin and mineral deficiencies that can happen after weight loss surgery. These deficiencies can show up in different ways, like hair and nail problems, dental issues, fatigue, mental fog, low mood, vision troubles, and sleep disturbances.

So, let's dig a bit deeper into the science behind it. You know, the enzymes that break down our food are mainly produced in the mouth and stomach. And most of the nutrient absorption happens in the duodenum and jejunum, which are the initial parts of the small intestine. But during gastric sleeve surgery, your stomach size gets reduced, which means less surface area for nutrient absorption.

 

In the case of RNY surgery, the stomach size is significantly reduced and the food is rerouted away from the primary absorption route. So yeah, your body ends up absorbing fewer nutrients, vitamins, and minerals due to the reduced calorie intake.

 

Now, you can really see why establishing a supplementation routine is so important for your new lifestyle, right? Your overall well-being and optimal health depend on it. Making this a new habit will make a big difference in supporting your journey towards better health.

 

There are certain vitamins and minerals that are extra important for those who have had bariatric surgery. I like to call them our "Team Members" because they all work together to contribute to your overall well being. So, make sure you include these crucial supplements in your daily routine for your success.

 

To make sure you stick with your supplementation regimen, it's important to plan and prepare accordingly. Make it a daily habit to take your supplements at the same time each day. Your doctor or dietitian will give you the specific dosages that are right for your body and situation.

 

Oh, and if you have supplements, follow the instructions for each one. Some people find it easier to add supplements to a smoothie for better digestion and to seamlessly fit them into their routine.

 

And hey, consider using a food/supplement diary to take away any guesswork about whether you've taken your supplements or not. By making it part of your daily routine, you'll stay consistent and accountable. Choose a method that works best for you, whether it's setting reminders, keeping a diary, or any other system that helps you stay on track. Remember, this dedicated effort is crucial for achieving and maintaining optimal health after bariatric surgery.

 

Hope that helps, my friend! Keep rockin' your health goals!

 

P.S. Ready for your weight loss journey? I've got your back with my ULTIMATE Guide to Post-Op Success E-Book.

It's like your personal roadmap to getting the most out of your weight-loss surgery experience!