The need and safety of vitamin supplementation in adults with obesity within 9 months post sleeve gastrectomy (SG): assessment based on intake

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess the need and safety of vitamin supplementation in adults with obesity post bariatric surgery (SG), based on intake assessment. Patients with obesity class III, and with obesity class II with comorbidities were followed up at 3, 6 and 9 months post bariatric surgery. Based on a 4-day food record questionnaire, the intake of vitamins and calories was assessed and an interview regarding the consumption of supplements was conducted. The study showed a deficiency in the dietary intake of vitamin D, folate (B9) and vitamin B1 (in 93–100% of respondents), vitamins E and C (in 53–67% of respondents), vitamins A, PP and vitamins B2 and B6 (in 10 to 23% of respondents) and vitamin B12 (only 1 woman). The intake of multivitamin supplements was implemented by 72% of respondents, independently, all patients were taking a vitamin D supplement. Vitamin deficiencies were only reported in a small percentage of patients (3–17%), who did not take supplements throughout the observation period. Supplementation with vitamins D, E, C, B1 and folic acid (B9), used regularly, supplemented the nutritional deficiencies of patients. The intake of vitamin A, B2, PP, and B6 with supplements did not significantly affect the overall intake. Supplementation with vitamin B12 turned out to be unjustified to the nutritional recommendations. The dietary and/or supplemental intake of vitamins did not exceed the tolerable upper intake level (UL). The results of the study confirm the need to implement vitamin supplementation for bariatric patients and its safety.