Vitamins After Gastric Bypass — Gold Coast

Your long-term supplement plan and monitoring after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Why supplements matter after bypass

Changes in stomach size and intestinal routing can reduce absorption of key nutrients. A consistent plan protects energy, nerves and bone health.

Typical supplement plan

  • Daily bariatric multivitamin.
  • Vitamin B12 — oral or periodic injections as advised.
  • Iron — especially for menstruating patients; take away from calcium.
  • Calcium + Vitamin D — usually in divided doses.
  • Others as indicated by blood tests (e.g., folate, thiamine, zinc).

Blood-test schedule

  • Baseline pre-op; then typically at 3, 6, 12 months; annually thereafter.
  • Common panels: FBC, ferritin/iron studies, B12, folate, calcium, vitamin D and others as required.

Practical tips

  • Protein first; supplements support—not replace—good intake.
  • Separate iron and calcium by 2–3 hours to aid absorption.
  • Report tingling, fatigue or hair loss—these can signal low levels.

Diet Stages · Recovery · Bypass — Gold Coast

Need supplement advice?

Book a review with our dietitian

Vitamins FAQs

Do I need vitamins long-term?

Yes—lifelong supplementation is recommended after bypass.

What if my iron stays low?

We’ll review timing, absorption and diet; some people need IV iron.

Is thiamine important?

Yes—deficiency can occur; we monitor and supplement when indicated.