Many obese patients are at risk of vitamin deficiency after gastric bypass

Smelt wanted to know why some patients don’t take multivitamins. “Once we know these reasons, we can find solutions.” He will defend his research at Wageningen University & Research on Friday 16 September.

Improvements

Smelt explains: “Due to changes in the gastrointestinal tract, the absorption of nutrients, vitamins and minerals is reduced after a gastric bypass. This can lead to a lack of vitamins and minerals in the body, even with a healthy diet, with all the associated consequences ”.

More than 4,600 patients, divided into four hospitals in the Netherlands, have completed an extensive survey on the use of multivitamins. What does it look like? The main reasons for not taking these pills are stomach / intestinal upset, cost, bad taste and smell and lack of information and knowledge. Additionally, 30% of patients are dissatisfied with conversations when outpatient caregivers explain to the patient that multivitamins are important. “We apparently don’t communicate it as professionals in a positive way. It must be different. We are now developing a collaborative decision-making module focusing on the use of multivitamins. In addition, we are developing a checklist for healthcare professionals so that they can easily apply this form during the conversation with the patient. “

He also began working on the other findings of his research. “The multivitamin manufacturer adjusts the supplement to improve the taste and smell. Catharina Hospital has set up a special abdominal pain clinic for patients with gastrointestinal disorders. We look very specifically at where those complaints come from and what we can do to remove them. “In addition, it is important that there is reimbursement recognition of specialized and proven multivitamin supplements from NZa and Zorgverzekeraars Nederland.” It is cheaper to simply repay the costs of multivitamins. Otherwise, health care costs will eventually be much higher if patients develop medical problems later, “says Smelt.

Personal care

Smelt’s research also provided her with insights into how we can treat patients with vitamin deficiencies in a more targeted way. “Personal care really. Not all patients benefit from the standard five or six injections from a vitamin B12 deficiency. We observe the laboratory results and listen carefully to the patient. So, together with the patient, I create a tailor-made treatment plan “.

His research also shows that obesity is not a quick fix. “It’s not just about the operation,” says obesity surgeon Frans Smulders, who has supervised Smelt for years. “His research shows that a multidisciplinary approach is important in achieving and maintaining weight loss. It is not for nothing that our patients are followed medically for five years ”.

Edited by: National Care Guide

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