Did you know that men and women can have different nutrient recommendations following bariatric surgery? Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing procedure for individuals struggling with obesity. However, it's essential to understand that such procedures can impact nutrient absorption and dietary restriction, leading to potential deficiencies. Thankfully, bariatric multivitamins support the overall health and wellness of both men and women after surgery.* In this blog, discover how men and women have different nutrient needs after surgery. Dive into the world of bariatric multivitamins and find the perfect support for your unique needs. Understanding the Importance of Bariatric Multivitamins After bariatric surgery, the gastrointestinal tract undergoes significant changes, affecting the body's ability to absorb vital nutrients. Bariatric multivitamins are specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of individuals who have undergone weight loss surgery, ensuring adequate amounts of essential vitamins and minerals are received. Bariatric vitamins also provide the essential micronutrients important for long-term health outcomes in the bariatric community.* Key Nutrients in Bariatric Multivitamins Medical organizations, like the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), recognize the need for experience and science in the field of metabolic and bariatric surgery. This organization focuses on treating and managing obesity-related conditions, aiming to improve patient outcomes by providing evidence-based dietary supplement recommendations. Key bariatric nutrients are determined based on the bariatric procedure, prevalence of deficiencies, gender, medical history, and age. These key nutrients include the following:1 Vitamin B1 (thiamin): Bariatric surgery can affect the absorption of thiamin due to reduced food intake, changes in digestion, and altered absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. This vitamin is crucial in energy metabolism, nerve function, and maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. This B vitamin should be included daily.* Folate: Levels of this essential vitamin may fluctuate after bariatric surgery due to nutrient absorption and reduced food intake. Folate plays a role in DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and nervous system health, making it a key nutrient to include in a daily bariatric multivitamin as 400-800mcg of folate or folic acid.* Vitamin B12: Bariatric surgery can impair the body's ability to absorb vitamin B12, which is vital for neurological function and red blood cell production. Including a high-quality, easily absorbed form of B12, such as methylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin, in your multivitamin is crucial.* Iron: Iron deficiency is common after weight loss surgery, leading to fatigue and anemia. Bariatric multivitamins should contain ascorbic acid or vitamin C with a well-absorbed form of iron, such as ferrous fumarate, to support iron levels. For those needing more iron support, standalone bariatric iron supplements with vitamin C are also an option.* Calcium and vitamin D: Maintaining strong bones is essential, especially after weight loss surgery. Bariatric patients need at least 1200-1500mg of calcium citrate and 75mcg of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) daily, as they work synergistically to support bone health.* Zinc: Zinc plays vital roles in wound healing, immune health, and metabolism. Bariatric patients should receive a minimum of 8-22mg of zinc daily to help support these functions.* Copper: Including copper in the post-bariatric surgery supplement regimen can support red blood cell production, immune system function, and overall neurological health. Supplementation with 1mg of copper is recommended for every 8-15mg of zinc.* Vitamin A: This nutrient plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including vision, immune support, and cell growth. Vitamin A should be included in a post-bariatric surgery supplement regimen as 1500-3000mcg of retinol.* Selecting the Right Daily Multivitamin Selecting the right bariatric multivitamin is an individualized process. You should work closely with your healthcare team and follow their recommendations to ensure you choose a multivitamin that meets your specific nutrient needs to support your overall health following bariatric surgery.* The top six factors in selecting a bariatric multivitamin should include the following: 1. Consult a healthcare professional: Your healthcare team can provide personalized guidance based on your specific surgery type, individual nutrient requirements, and any preexisting health conditions. 2. Look for specialized formulas: Opt for multivitamins specifically designed for bariatric surgery patients. This may include products designed to fill in nutrient gaps specific to gender. These formulas consider the unique needs of bariatric patients based on ASMBS guidelines, ensuring you receive the necessary nutrients in the appropriate amounts and forms. 3. Comprehensive nutrient profile: Choose a daily multivitamin that provides a complete panel of bariatric key nutrients, including but not limited to vitamin B12, iron, calcium, vitamin D, zinc, and folate. 4. Quality and bioavailability: Look for supplements that undergo testing for purity, potency, and quality control. Additionally, consider the bioavailability of the nutrients in the formula, as this determines how easily they can be absorbed and utilized by your body. The ASMBS guidelines provide insight into this.1 5. Dosage and form: Ensure the dosage aligns with your healthcare professional's recommendations. Additionally, consider the form of the multivitamin (capsules, chewable tablets, soft chews) and choose one that suits your preferences and post-surgery dietary needs. 6. Customer reviews and feedback: While individual experiences may vary, reading product reviews can provide valuable information and help you make an informed decision. Specialized Formulas From once-daily bariatric multivitamins to all-inclusive multivitamin tablets, bariatric multivitamins come in a variety of formulations. Typically, one-a-day bariatric supplements require additional support, such as added calcium or iron. In contrast, all-inclusive options can contain all key nutrients needed after bariatric surgery. Why choose one over the other? Your decision should be based on tolerability, preference, medical history, and blood work. You can also find men's and women’s multivitamin formulas based on ASMBS guidelines, including unique targeted blends and nutrients tailored to support men’s and women’s health.* Bariatric Fusion offers a one-a-day women’s multivitamin and one-a-day men’s multivitamin formulated for the specific needs of women’s and men’s health.* Bariatric Fusion men’s multivitamin includes targeted nutrients for men’s nutritional support:* Lycopene for cardiovascular function and antioxidant support* Saw palmetto to support prostate function* Trans-resveratrol for antioxidant activity* Levels of vitamin K (120mcg) and iron (18mg) suitable for men as recommended by the ASMBS guidelines Bariatric Fusion women’s multivitamin includes targeted nutrients for women’s nutritional support:* Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) and citrus bioflavonoids to support antioxidant response* Bacillus coagulans for digestive support* Vitamin K2 supports cardiovascular and bone function* PABA can assist in the biosynthesis of folic acid* Hyaluronic acid naturally found in healthy joints and skin Biotin to support healthy hair, skin, and nails* Levels of vitamin K (90mcg) and iron (45mg) suitable for women as recommended by the ASMBS guidelines Conclusion Bariatric multivitamins are indispensable for men and women after bariatric surgery, as they help bridge the nutrient gap caused by altered absorption.* Popular forms of bariatric multivitamins include: Capsules without iron One per day capsules For women For men Following surgery, chewable supplements may be recommended by your healthcare provider as your stomach and intestinal tract heal from surgery. Capsules are often better tolerated 6-12 months after surgery. By selecting high-quality multivitamins tailored to your individual needs, you can support long-term health and well-being on your weight loss journey.* Shop all bariatric multivitamins References 1. Mechanick JI et al. Surg Obes Relat Dis. 2020;16(2):175-247. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This blog is for information and education purposes only. This information is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your bariatric surgeon or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions in regard to a medical condition. A qualified healthcare professional can best assist you in deciding whether a dietary supplement is suitable based on your individual needs.