Supplements After Bariatric Surgery: What’s Worth It and What’s Just Hype?

Send us a textIn this episode of The Bariatric Rewrite Podcast, Helen and Evie dive into the confusing world of supplements after bariatric surgery. From supermarket multivitamins to bariatric-specific formulas, magnesium TikTok trends, ketone esters, mushroom blends, and superfruits like baobab — they cut through the noise to share what’s truly essential, what’s a nice-to-have, and what’s mostly hype.They discuss:Why multivitamins are a non-negotiable after sleeve or bypass surgery.How iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B12 deficiencies show up — and how to supplement smartly.The real deal on magnesium types, creatine for muscle and brain health, and L-theanine for calm focus.Their own experiences with trendy powders, electrolytes, and supplements marketed as “GLP-1 mimics.”Why whole foods and blood work always matter more than a cupboard full of pills.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by supplement ads or confused about what your post-op body actually needs, this episode will give you clarity, reassurance, and practical takeaways.Studies & Resources Guidelines & core deficienciesASMBS Integrated Health Nutritional Guidelines – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28040492/BOMSS post-op supplement guidance – https://www.bomss.org.uk/bomss-post-bariatric-surgery-nutritional-guidance-for-gps/Chelsea and Westminster Hospital (NHS): Vitamin & Mineral Supplements after Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Gastrectomy https://www.chelwest.nhs.uk/your-visit/patient-leaflets/bariatric-dietetics/vitamin-and-mineral-supplements-after-gastric-bypass-or-sleeve-gastrectomyIron & calcium: timing and interactionsCalcium inhibits non-heme iron absorption (Hallberg et al., Am J Clin Nutr, 1991) – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1994986/Vitamin C enhances iron absorption (Am J Clin Nutr, 1989) – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2916445/Calcium formsWhy calcium citrate is preferred post-op (ASMBS/BOMSS) – ASMBS: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28040492/ BOMSS: https://www.bomss.org.uk/bomss-post-bariatric-surgery-nutritional-guidance-for-gps/Magnesium: forms & effectsBioavailability: citrate > oxide (Lindberg et al., 1990; review) – https://openheart.bmj.com/content/8/1/e001725NIH fact sheet on magnesium – https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-Consumer/Creatine (muscle, brain; safety)ISSN Position Stand: efficacy & safety – https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-017-0173-zKetone esters (what they do & limits)Cox et al., Cell Metabolism (2016): ketone drinks improve endurance in some athletes – https://pubmed.ncbiSupport the showFind out more about us at rewritelifestyle.co.uk Disclaimer:The content of this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical conditions, or treatment options. The experiences shared are personal and may not reflect every individual’s journey. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you’ve heard on this podcast.

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