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Gastric Sleeve Vs. Band Surgery
October 20, 2023
Did you undergo a Gastric Sleeve or a Gastric Bypass? Do you have a gastric band? Then it is important to be aware of the vitamins and minerals your body needs. In this blog you will learn more about the daily vitamin and mineral requirements of your body.
Vitamins and minerals are the foundation of our body. We need them to stay in good shape. After a stomach reduction you automatically eat less. As a result, your standard intake of vitamins and minerals is also reduced. With a Gastric Bypass, part of the small intestine is bypassed. This ensures that the nutrients are less well absorbed by the body. This can all lead to a general lack of vitamins and minerals in the body. Taking (extra) vitamins/supplements after the operation can supplement these deficiencies.
How do I know if I need to take vitamins?
Standard vitamins are started at the beginning of the 4th week after surgery. From then on, the stomach is sufficiently trained/strengthened to process the vitamins. The vitamin you take is usually a multivitamin. This includes:
- Vitamins A, D3, B9, B12
- Zinc
- Chromium
- Copper
- Iron
A recommended blood test is scheduled 3 months after gastric surgery. With this blood test we can see quite quickly whether there are any deficiencies. Of course you do not have to wait for the scheduled blood test. Do you have symptoms such as fatigue (to a great extent), inflammations (all over the body), dry skin, insomnia, …? Then we can certainly give you further advice.
After 9 months, the intake of vitamins can be stopped if necessary (with favourable blood results). This is always done in consultation with Chris/the doctor treating you. So never do this on your own.
What are vitamins and minerals needed for?
All vitamins and minerals have their own function. Below we briefly explain the function of each vitamin/mineral.
| Vitamin A | Very important for our growth, healthy skin, healthy hair & healthy nails. It also contributes to the proper functioning of the eyes and the immune system. Vitamin A is mainly found in animal products. | |
| Vitamin D3 | Ensures the absorption of calcium and phosphate. This is necessary for the proper development of bones and teeth. The main source of vitamin D3 is fatty tissue. | |
| Vitamin B9 | Folic acid is considered as vitamin B9 & B11. It is especially important for the production of red blood cells and the function of the immune system & nervous system. Vitamin B9 is mainly found in yeasts, green vegetables, legumes and citrus fruits | |
| Vitamin B12 | Is needed for the production of red blood cells. This is important for the transport of oxygen in the blood. Vitamin B12 is only found in animal products. | |
| Chromium | This is needed for the proper functioning of insulin, the maintenance of blood sugar levels and fat metabolism. Chromium is mainly found in grain products, vegetables, meat, poultry and fish. | |
| Zinc | Important for building DNA & making proteins, helps fight viruses & bacteria and ensures normal hormone balance. Zinc is mainly found in animal products, brown bread, legumes and rice. | |
| Copper | Supports energy levels, has a positive influence on your immune system and supports the transport of iron in your body. It is mainly found in fish, nuts, cereals, vegetables, fruit and cocoa products. | |
| Iron | Supports the immune system and contributes to normal energy metabolism. Iron is mainly found in animal products and vegetable products (potatoes, bread, vegetables, etc.). |
