Vitamins After Gastric Sleeve — Gold Coast

Your simple, long-term supplement plan and blood-test schedule after sleeve gastrectomy.

Why supplements matter

Smaller intake and altered digestion can lead to low levels of key nutrients. A tailored plan protects energy, hair, bone health and immunity.

Typical supplement plan

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

Blood-test schedule

  • Baseline pre-op; then typically at 3, 6, 12 months; annually thereafter.
  • Tests commonly include FBC, ferritin/iron studies, B12, folate, calcium, vitamin D and others as needed.

Practical tips

  • Protein first at meals; supplements fill the gaps.
  • Separate iron and calcium by 2–3 hours for better absorption.
  • If nausea occurs, try taking vitamins with food or at a different time of day.

Diet Stages after Sleeve · Recovery · Sleeve — Gold Coast

Need supplement advice?

Book a review with our dietitian

Vitamins FAQs

Do I need vitamins forever?

Long-term supplementation is recommended to maintain healthy levels.

Can I take gummy vitamins?

Only if they meet bariatric targets; many gummies are low-dose and high in sugar alcohols.

What if my iron stays low?

We’ll check absorption, diet and timing; some patients need IV iron.