What are the B-vitamins? Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) Folate (folic acid) Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) Vitamin B1 (thiamin) Riboflavin Niacin Pantothenic acid Biotin These vitamins work hand in hand to support metabolism and convert the food you consume into energy for the body. B-vitamins are water-soluble and the body will usually excrete what it doesn’t need. Some B-vitamin deficiencies are more common than others after bariatric surgery due to decreased dietary intake and/or malabsorption. What is the role of vitamin B12? Important for growth Promotes proper functioning of the nervous system Feel free to visit our next blog Recovery After Gastric Bypass Surgery. Why are bariatric patients at higher risk for vitamin B12 deficiency? This vitamin requires intrinsic factor that is produced by stomach cells in order for the intestines to absorb it properly. Some bariatric surgery options result in surgical changes made to the stomach and/or small intestine. Due to this change, stomach cells are unable to produce adequate amounts of intrinsic factor to bind vitamin B12 for absorption. The ASMBS guidelines for bariatric patients recommends 350mcg - 1000mcg daily depending on your individual needs. There are different forms of supplementation, from nasal sprays to sublingual tablets. What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency? Anemia Constipation Fatigue Headaches Mouth lesions Irritability What is the role of vitamin B1 (thiamin)? Essential in helping the body convert the food you eat into energy Why are bariatric patients at higher risk of thiamin deficiency? Consistent vomiting Decreased dietary intake due to a reduced stomach size Bypassing part of the small intestine Lack of adherence to bariatric multivitamin supplement The ASMBS guidelines recommend 50mg - 100mg of thiamin daily. What are the symptoms of thiamin deficiency? Confusion Digestive problems Loss of appetite Memory loss Weakness Nervousness What is the role of folate (folic acid)? Assisting in metabolic functions Red blood cell production What are the symptoms of folate deficiency? Anemia Shortness of breath Headaches Fatigue Insomnia Paranoia The ASMBS guidelines recommend 400mcg - 800mcg folate daily. Folate can be found in fortified cereals, legumes, leafy vegetables, and other fruits and vegetables. What is the role of riboflavin? Utilized by the body to produce energy Assist with cellular function Important for growth What are the symptoms of riboflavin deficiency? Blurred vision Depression Hair loss Dermatitis Loss of sensation Sleepiness Mouth lesions What is the role of niacin? Niacin is important in carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism in the body. What are the symptoms of niacin deficiency? Canker sores Confusion Irritability Loss of appetite Nausea Inflammation What is the role of biotin? Utilized in converting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy for the body For someone that is consuming a wide variety of foods, a biotin deficiency is uncommon. What are the symptoms of biotin deficiency? Hair loss Insomnia Inflammation of the eye Dermatitis What is the role of pantothenic acid? Assists in fatty acid synthesis What are the symptoms of pantothenic acid deficiency? Abdominal pains Depression Eczema Hair loss Immune impairment Nausea Insomnia The vitamin is found in nearly every food source so deficiency is less likely. In cases of malnutrition, pantothenic acid deficiencies can be seen. What is the role of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)? Involvement in enzyme reactions Protein metabolism What are the symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency? Acne Anemia Arthritis Dizziness Fatigue Impaired wound healing Irritability Hair loss A deficiency in B6 results from malabsorption in the body and is often associated with other B-vitamin deficiencies like vitamin B12 and folate. B-vitamins offered at Bariatric Fusion Adherence to a bariatric specific multivitamin is going to play a huge role in your weight loss journey. Bariatric Fusion offers corrective B-vitamin options for those who need an extra supplement to correct any deficiencies. If needed, we can also offer Biotin tablets as well. Sublingual B12, chewable vitamin b1 or a complete family of B vitamins in B50 Complex. You might find this blog interesting: Gastric Sleeve Hair Loss **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 physician or another qualified health provider with any questions in regards 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.