Can Anyone Take Bariatric Vitamins? Risks & Benefits Uncovered

Written by Anita Tejani, MS, BS and medically reviewed by Dr. Stephen Boyce, MD

Maybe you’ve heard of the amazing health benefits of the best bariatric vitamins and are wondering if you can take them without having undergone bariatric surgery. The good news is, yes!

What are bariatric vitamins? Bariatric vitamins are specially designed with higher potency and easier absorption to meet the unique needs of people whose digestive systems have been altered through surgery.

However, you don’t necessarily have to go under the knife to enjoy the benefits of these nutrient-packed supplements.

But before you ditch your daily multivitamin, read on for a few things you should know.

Could you take bariatric vitamins, even if you’ve never had surgery?

The simple answer is yes.

Bariatric vitamins are specially formulated to deliver higher doses of some vitamins and minerals to account for people who may not be able to absorb as much after their surgery.

But this also makes them great for everyday use. When considering bariatric vitamins vs regular vitamins, it’s important to note that bariatric vitamins often contain higher concentrations of nutrients tailored for individuals with altered digestion, making them more potent.

Can Anyone Take Bariatric Vitamins?

The term bariatric vitamins implies that these nutrient powerhouses are only for those who have undergone bariatric surgery.

However, opting to take bariatric vitamins can be a great option if you need a boost in your nutrition.

This is especially true if you struggle with low levels of iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and other vitamins and minerals.

However, if your digestive system is working as it should, you may not need the higher doses that bariatric vitamins contain.

Taking a higher-potency vitamin may lead to side effects, and there is a risk of negative medication interactions.

For these reasons, it’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider to ensure taking bariatric vitamins is best for you.

Can You Take Bariatric Vitamins Without Surgery?

If you and your healthcare provider determine that bariatric vitamins are a good option for you, even if you aren’t having surgery, then yes! Start reaping the benefits of these supercharged morsels! 

Another common question is whether someone planning on having bariatric surgery can start taking vitamins beforehand. The answer is a resounding yes! 

Research actually shows that many people are deficient in several vitamins and minerals before having bariatric surgery. So boosting your levels beforehand is a great way to improve your overall health. 

What’s the Difference Between Bariatric Vitamins Vs. Regular Vitamins?

bariatric vitamins vs regular vitamins

Regular vitamins are formulated with the average person’s nutritional needs in mind. However, prenatal vitamins vs bariatric vitamins should not be confused, as prenatal vitamins are tailored for pregnancy, while bariatric vitamins meet the specific needs of those who have undergone weight loss surgery. 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t provide specific guidelines on what nutrients and in what amounts multivitamins need to contain. This is left to the discretion of the manufacturer.

Typically, following a balanced diet that includes lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and whole grains allows most people to get the nutrients they need through food and don’t need a supercharged multivitamin.

On the other hand, people who have undergone bariatric surgery now have altered digestive systems that may not absorb nutrients from food as well

For this reason, they need to take a vitamin containing all essential nutrients in amounts that help them meet their daily nutritional needs. 

Bariatric vitamins are specially formulated to meet these needs by containing increased amounts of vitamins and minerals. They are also designed to be easier for the body to digest and absorb. If you’re concerned about taste, finding the best tasting bariatric vitamins (try these bariatric vitamins chewable) will be important.

What are Bariatric Vitamins

Bariatric vitamins are supplements that help fill common nutritional deficiencies after bariatric surgery. They contain higher amounts of vitamins and minerals than typical multivitamins.

Without these vitamins, nutritional deficiencies can have devastating consequences,  such as:

  • Bone loss
  • Tooth decay
  • Anemia
  • Nerve damage
  • Trouble seeing at night

Bariatric vitamins also come in forms that are easier on the digestive tract, such as chewable, liquid, or powder form. 

Some bariatric vitamins may target specific deficiencies that affect hair, nail, and skin health, as these can sometimes change after surgery. 

what is bariatric vitamins

What Bariatric Vitamins Should You Take After Surgery?

After having bariatric surgery, vitamins are less of a suggestion and more of a non-negotiable part of your regimen. 

It’s essential to choose a comprehensive multivitamin to take daily. Be sure it contains all the essential vitamins and minerals, plus a little extra calcium, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and iron. 

Calcium is crucial after bariatric surgery, and the best calcium for bariatric patients is calcium citrate. This type of calcium is easier to absorb, especially when your stomach produces less acid after surgery. 

Non-bariatric patients don’t need to worry as much about the type of calcium—they can use either calcium citrate or calcium carbonate. However, for those who’ve had bariatric surgery, sticking with calcium citrate ensures better absorption and helps prevent bone issues.

Follow your health provider’s orders and dosage instructions to make sure you get the most out of your supplement.

Remember that regular check-ins with your healthcare team are a must. These visits ensure your nutrition is where it needs to be so you can thrive on your post-surgery journey. 

can you take bariatric vitamins without surgery

What are the Side Effects of Bariatric Multivitamins?

While bariatric vitamins have many benefits, like all supplements, they can have potential side effects. 

Some people experience stomach trouble, like nausea or constipation. This is especially true if the iron level in the vitamin is high. 

Also, overdoing it on fat-soluble vitamins, like A, D, E, and K, can lead to too much building up in your system, causing negative side effects

While it’s rare, there’s always the possibility of allergic reactions to certain components in the vitamins. Allergic reaction symptoms can include:

  • Hives
  • Itching
  • Swelling of the tongue, mouth, or throat
  • Rash

Barli Life’s liquid bariatric vitamin is a great option for those looking to take bariatric vitamins without having undergone bariatric surgery. 

It contains all recommended vitamins and minerals, including 45 mg of iron in a powder form that’s easy for your digestive system to absorb. The powder form also allows you to easily decrease the dose if needed.

The refined texture mixes well in 8-10 ounces of water, and the delicious watermelon flavor turns your vitamins into a refreshing beverage.  

can anyone take bariatric vitamins

Conclusion

Bariatric vitamins, designed with higher doses of essential nutrients, can address deficiencies in iron, B12, calcium, and more. They benefit both post-surgery patients and those seeking better nutrition. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider before use to avoid side effects or interactions. Bari Life’s Complete Bariatric Vitamin Formula Powder are the best liquid bariatric vitamins. It’s the best is an easy-to-absorb option for both bariatric and non-bariatric individuals, offering a convenient way to meet your body’s nutritional needs.

If you want to learn more, why not check out these articles below: 

References

Allergic Reactions. (2024). MedlinePlus.

Andrès, E., & Terrade, J. (2024). Fat-Soluble Vitamins A, D, E, and K: Review of the Literature and Points of Interest for the Clinician. Journal of Clinical Medicine

Dagan, S. S., et al. (2017). Nutritional Recommendations for Adult Bariatric Surgery Patients: Clinical Practice. Advances in Nutrition. 

Jamil, O., et al. (2020). Micronutrient Deficiencies in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy. Nutrients.

Multivitamin/Mineral Supplements. (2024). National Institutes of Health.

P., J., Vieira, S., et al. (2024). Assessing Nutritional Deficiencies in Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Comparative Study of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass versus Sleeve Gastrectomy. Journal of Personalized Medicine.

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