Post-Surgery Diet

Diet makes all the difference.

After you've undergone a malabsorptive procedure, a carefully planned diet is crucial to long-term wellness. After all, you face more restrictions — in the amount of food you eat, and the amount of vitamins and minerals you can absorb. Don't worry; help is on the way. A registered dietitian can work with you to plan a customized gastric bypass diet, including specific types, quantities, even textures of food. Great-tasting, nutrient-dense supplements like OPTISOURCE^™ Vitamin and Mineral Supplement, OPTISOURCE^™ High Protein Drink and BENEPROTEIN^® can also help provide vital vitamins and minerals, proteins, and fiber content that sustains muscle, supports the immune system and maintains health.

Common post-bariatric nutritional deficiencies

B₁₂ – this vitamin is a major contributor to maintaining strength, healthy appetite—even a healthy attitude! Because it's a food-bound vitamin, getting adequate amounts can be challenging after malabsorptive procedures.

Thiamine – contained in many foods, thiamine deficiency can trigger abdominal discomfort, anorexia, fatique, and in extreme cases, cardiovascular issues.

B vitamins – a lack of these nutrients can lead to weakness, depression, poor appetite, muscle cramps and other symptoms.

Folate is an essential component for the formation of red blood cells and DNA.

Iron helps transport oxygen in hemoglobin; without it, fatigue, stomatitis and sensations of being cold are common.

Calcium and vitamin D have many benefits and are vital to bone health and density.

Vitamins A, E and K help metabolize fat and maintain healthy eyes and skin.

Zinc levels that are low can contribute to hair loss, skin conditions and less effective injury-healing and immune systems.

Copper plays a key role in the health of the nervous system.

Selenium is an important antioxidant mineral.

Protein is vital to speeding recovery and sustaining muscle mass and strength.

These vitamins and minerals have a vital, positive impact on your health—and you can take an active role in supplying them. Nutritional supplements like OPTISOURCE™ help provide the nutrients that aid recovery and keep your body strong.