Gastric Bypass Surgery Support Group

Gastric bypass (GBP) is any of a group of similar operative procedures used to treat morbid obesity, a condition which arises from severe accumulation of excess weight in the form of fatty tissue, and the health problems ("co-morbidities") which result. If you are considering gastric bypass or have had it, join the community where we share our experiences and find support.

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Iron

krimicri
krimicri
I haven't yet gotten my 6 month supplement check (2.5 months to go) but I'm just wondering if I'm taking enough iron. I take 18mg bariatric advantage chewable 1x per day. I was always kind of anemic prior to my surgery and I'm wondering if I should be taking more. Guess that's a question for my surgeon and should probably wait and see how my numbers come back before worrying about that stuff.
deleted_user
deleted_user
are you tired all the time?? I'm getting my numbers checked at 3 mos., but I switched to a chewable multi and since they don't have them with iron, my doctor said I could take a separate iron capsule. I was just exhausted all the time and my stool was very pale. Now I'm getting better. I'm 7 weeks out.
krimicri
krimicri
No no, nothing like that. But before my surgery my iron levels were always very low, I'm just wondering if I should be taking extra. My energy level is great, I think that is in part to the b12 shot I take each month. Guess I will just wait until the numbers are in and adjust from there, or maybe I am worried for nothing.
deleted_user
deleted_user
You are probably fine. I am 10 + months post op and still trying to get back to normal levels on iron. I always lived in the anemic "range" and from time to time it dipped. So I am on two caps. a day, of a prescription iron. It IS working and every couple months when I see the surgeon, it's gone up a point...each time, so for me this is something I'll continue on for awhile.

Fatigue and lack of any energy were my symptoms. Blood work is the tool needed to identify it, and you can call your Dr. and request blood work sooner, if you have reason to be concerned. Otherwise, wait til you see the doc again and check then.
Cindy
barb128
barb128
You are right to be concerned. Iron is very important and is one of the minerals that bariatric patients often are lacking. Be careful however, if you take too much it can upset your stomach or make you constipated. Also, be aware that many of the iron supplements are not to be taken within two hours of calcium. One website I read said not to take the supplements with coffee, whole-wheat or calcium because they interfere with iron absorbtion.