Sunnybank Obesity Centre

[lawless]

Hi

Just received a letter regarding possible nutrient deficiencies due to surgery inhibiting some food intake, and am wondering re the source of the "recent study". Is there anywhere I can view the details, as if it affects me, than I am quite curious to get more info. eg I had surgery over a year ago, and no problems, is the cardiovascular risk over long term, or more immediate due to the decrease in the certain nutrients. hmmm twigged my thought processes!

Thanks in advance for settling my curiosity.

[Guest]

After lap banding surgery nutrient deficiencies can occur due to:

1) Decreased quantities eaten due to smaller capacity for food

2) some foods aren’t well tolerated i.e some good “”quality” foods are difficult to eat.

For example red meat is not as well tolerated by some people which would reduce iron and zinc intake.

A blood test is recommended annually as a means of checking that intake is meeting requirements.

If folate intake is inadequate then homocysteine levels can rise. Increased homocysteine is a risk factor for Coronary Heart Disease. An increased intake of green leafy vegetables will help to reduce homocysteine if levels are increased.

We also recommend checking cholesterol and triglycerides if the GP is not checking these regularly – they should improve with weight loss and dietary restrictions.

In summary the surgery doesn’t inhibit nutrient absorption but may change or limit the quantity and quality of foods eaten and nutrients therefore available for absorption and regular blood tests are a means of keeping an eye on nutritional status..

Regards,

Jenny Job