VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTATION PROTOCOLS IN POST-BARIATRIC SURGERY PATIENTS

Abstract

This study aimed to critically analyze the scientific literature on vitamin supplementation protocols in patients undergoing bariatric surgery, identifying the main postoperative nutritional deficiencies and the supplementation strategies recommended for the prevention of complications. This is a narrative literature review with a qualitative approach, based on searches conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and ScienceDirect databases on December 29, 2025, including publications from the last ten years. Original articles, systematic reviews, narrative reviews, and meta-analyses published in English or Portuguese were included, totaling 15 studies after the application of eligibility criteria. The results demonstrated a high prevalence of vitamin and mineral deficiencies in the postoperative period of bariatric surgery, even among patients receiving regular clinical follow-up and nutritional supplementation. The most frequently observed deficiencies involved vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iron, as well as calcium, zinc, copper, and selenium, with greater severity in malabsorptive procedures, although restrictive techniques also presented relevant nutritional risks. Considerable variability was observed in supplementation protocols regarding composition, dosage, and route of administration, along with low long-term patient adherence, highlighting the lack of consensus in current recommendations. It is concluded that micronutrient deficiencies remain a significant clinical challenge after bariatric surgery, requiring continuous, individualized supplementation protocols guided by regular laboratory monitoring, with a direct impact on the prevention of nutritional complications and the improvement of long-term clinical outcomes.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2026.009-024