Nutritional Deficiencies Before and After Bariatric Surgery: Prevention and Treatment

Curr Nutr Rep. 2022 Jun;11(2):95-101. doi: 10.1007/s13668-022-00400-9. Epub 2022 Feb 16.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Bariatric surgery has the unique ability to drive substantial and sustainable weight loss in people living with obesity. Non-reversibility of these surgical techniques provides lifelong benefits but entails the need for continuous medical follow-up. The purpose of the current paper is to review and summarize current data on nutritional deficiencies in patients before and after bariatric surgery.

Recent findings: The cornerstone of preventing the emergence of disorders related to nutritional deficiencies is preoperative screening and correct supplementation since they may be exacerbated postoperatively. Following guidelines in conjunction to a lifelong personalized medical approach is of high importance. Bariatric surgery is a well-studied successful and durable means of weight loss that may lead to nutritional deficiencies. There is, thus, a medical need for careful monitoring and treatment of micro- and macronutrient deficiencies by an experienced multidisciplinary team.

Keywords: Bariatric surgery; Macronutrients; Micronutrients; Nutritional deficiencies.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bariatric Surgery* / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Malnutrition* / prevention & control
  • Obesity / surgery
  • Weight Loss