Do I Need to Worry About Malnutrition After Gastric Sleeve?


Gastric sleeve surgery is an effective weight loss solution for patients. It works by restricting food intake, which results in a substantial reduction in weight. Because of this, some patients may have questions about their nutritional intake; others may be concerned about the possibility of malnutrition. At Endobariatric, we are committed to making sure our patients are informed about all aspects of their gastric sleeve treatment. Continue reading for more information.

Understanding Malnutrition
Malnutrition is defined as the condition that occurs when the body is deprived of essential vitamins, minerals, and other vital nutrients, all of which are needed for healthy organ function within the body. The condition can develop in individuals that are undernourished.

Symptoms of malnourishment include:
• Thick and pale skin
• Bruising easily
• Dry skin
• Recurring rashes
• Changes in the skin’s pigmentation
• Painful joints
• Soft and tender bones
• Trouble seeing at night
• Shriveled tongue

Treatment for malnutrition usually involves intravenous feeding or enteral nutrition, in which a tube is inserted into the gastrointestinal tract.
There are a few types of malnutrition. They include:

Wasting: Wasting is characterized by a weight that is low for a person’s height and is usually associated with recent and drastic weight loss.

Stunting: Low height-for-age can be referred to as stunting. This is often the result of chronic undernutrition.

Deficiencies: Deficiencies refer to a lack of essential nutrients and vitamins in the diet.

Gastric Sleeve and Malnutrition
If you have had gastric sleeve surgery, you may be wondering if malnutrition is something you may face at some point. Following your gastric sleeve, it is important to follow your post-operative instructions to ensure the best recovery and result. It is also vital to be familiar with any nutritional guidelines provided to you. These will include information on diet, nutrition, restrictions on certain foods, and healthy eating habits to establish lifelong weight maintenance.

You may also be advised to take certain vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent certain health problems and support overall health. With this in mind, rest assured that the chance of malnutrition should not be a concern after gastric bypass surgery. In fact, it is more of a concern for gastric bypass surgery than it is for gastric sleeve surgery.

Gastric Sleeve at Endobariatric
Gastric sleeve surgery is a safe and effective weight loss solution that is designed to improve your health overall. If you are ready to take the next step in your weight loss journey, contact Endobariatric today to get started with a consultation.

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“Changing lives…one sleeve at a time”.