Prevention of vitamin and mineral deficiencies after bariatric surgery: evidence and algorithms

Bariatric surgery is widely accepted as first-choice treatment of morbid obesity and has also shown promising results in the treatment of diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. The number of operations each year is increasing, as well as, consequently, the urgent need for a coordinated nutritional approach, as micronutrient deficiencies occur frequently in these patients. Official guidelines on chronic use of multivitamins and minerals are, yet, unavailable in bariatric medicine. The current review provides an algorithm that supports bariatric teams to guarantee adequate nutrition after the operation.