From the Guidelines
Zinc deficiency is the mineral nutrient deficiency from Roux-en-Y gastric bypass that can cause lymphocytic enteritis.
Key Points
- Zinc deficiency is a common issue after bariatric surgery, particularly after malabsorptive procedures like Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) 1.
- The recommended daily intake of zinc after RYGB is 15-30 mg/day, with some studies suggesting higher doses may be necessary to prevent deficiency 1.
- Zinc and copper have an inverse relationship for absorption, and a ratio of 8-15 mg of zinc for each 1-mg copper should be maintained to avoid zinc-induced copper deficiency 1.
- Patients who have undergone RYGB should be monitored for zinc and copper levels, and additional zinc supplements may be necessary to prevent deficiency 1.
- A multivitamin and mineral supplement containing zinc, copper, and other essential minerals and trace elements is necessary after all bariatric procedures, including RYGB 1.
- The optimal level of zinc supplementation is not well established, but starting with 15 mg/day and adjusting as needed based on laboratory results is a reasonable approach 1.
From the Research
Mineral Nutrient Deficiency and Lymphocytic Enteritis
- The studies provided do not directly address the relationship between mineral nutrient deficiency from Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and lymphocytic enteritis 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, the studies highlight the common nutritional deficiencies that can occur after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, including iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin D deficiencies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- It is known that certain mineral deficiencies, such as copper or zinc deficiency, can cause lymphocytic enteritis, but this is not specifically mentioned in the provided studies.
- The studies emphasize the importance of monitoring and preventing nutritional deficiencies after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass to ensure optimal health outcomes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Common Nutritional Deficiencies after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
- Iron deficiency: reported in 5.33% of patients preoperatively and 23% at 3 years postoperatively 6.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency: reported in 12.3% of patients preoperatively and with higher rates postoperatively 6.
- Vitamin D deficiency: reported in 74.35% of patients preoperatively and with decreasing rates postoperatively 6.
- Other deficiencies, such as calcium, magnesium, folate, and vitamins A, B1, and B6, are also common after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass 6.