Nutritional Science for Bariatrics Flashcards

After a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, which vitamin deficiency is most likely because its absorption depends on intrinsic factor and the bypassed duodenum?

Answer: Vitamin B12

B12 requires intrinsic factor and the bypassed portions of the stomach and duodenum, so deficiency is common after RYGB.

What is the recommended minimum daily protein intake commonly advised for most post-bariatric patients?

Answer: 60-80 g

Guidelines typically recommend 60-80 g of protein daily to preserve lean mass after surgery.

Which mineral deficiency after bariatric surgery is a leading cause of anemia, especially in menstruating women?

Answer: Iron

Reduced acid and duodenal bypass impair iron absorption, making iron-deficiency anemia common.

Why are chewable or liquid vitamin supplements often preferred in the early postoperative period?

Answer: They dissolve and absorb more reliably in the smaller stomach

Chewable and liquid forms dissolve more readily and absorb better while the stomach pouch heals.

Dumping syndrome after gastric bypass is most commonly triggered by which type of food?

Answer: Simple sugars and refined carbohydrates

Rapid entry of simple sugars into the small intestine causes fluid shifts and dumping symptoms.

Which fat-soluble vitamins require monitoring particularly after malabsorptive procedures like biliopancreatic diversion?

Answer: Vitamins A, D, E, and K

Fat malabsorption reduces uptake of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.

What hydration guidance is typically given to bariatric patients regarding fluids and meals?

Answer: Avoid fluids for 30 minutes before and after meals

Separating fluids from meals prevents overfilling the pouch and reduces early satiety loss and dumping.