What mineral nutrient deficiency from Roux-en-Y (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) can cause lymphocytic enteritis?

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Last updated: February 11, 2025View editorial policy

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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.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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