Understanding Nutritional Deficiencies and How to Avoid Them

We’ve all heard it: “You are what you eat.” But sometimes, even when we think we’re eating right, our bodies might not get everything they need. Nutritional deficiencies happen when your body lacks essential vitamins and minerals to function at its best. The good news? A balanced diet and the right supplements can make all the difference. Let’s dive into some common nutritional deficiencies and how to keep them in check!

1. Iron Deficiency

Feeling tired, weak, or out of breath? You might be low on iron. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen throughout your body, and a lack of it can leave you feeling drained. This deficiency is particularly common after bariatric surgery since the body might absorb less iron than before.

How to Avoid It: Load up on iron-rich foods like spinach, red meat, lentils, and fortified cereals. But food alone might not cut it, especially for bariatric patients.

Try This Supplement: Journey Gentle Iron Capsules by Bariatric Eating are gentle on your stomach and provide the iron boost you need without the harsh side effects.

2. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Ever felt a little foggy or unusually forgetful? Vitamin B12 plays a key role in brain health and energy production. After bariatric surgery, your body might not absorb B12 as efficiently, leaving you at risk for this deficiency.

How to Avoid It: Incorporate B12-rich foods like eggs, dairy, and fish into your diet. But again, if your absorption is limited, supplements are the way to go.

Try This Supplement: Journey B12 Jellies offers a fun and tasty way to ensure you get your daily dose of B12, especially when pills aren’t your thing.

3. Calcium Deficiency

Calcium is your bone’s best friend, but it also helps with muscle function and nerve signaling. A calcium deficiency can lead to weak bones, muscle cramps, and even heart issues.

How to Avoid It: Add dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based milks to your meals. However, bariatric patients often need extra calcium to meet daily requirements.

Try This Supplement: Journey SuperCal Calcium Capsules pack a powerful punch to support your bone health without any extra hassle.

4. Vitamin D Deficiency

Are you spending too much time indoors? Vitamin D, the “sunshine vitamin,” helps your body absorb calcium and keeps your immune system strong. Without enough, you might feel fatigued, experience mood swings, or even have bone pain.

How to Avoid It: Get outside for some sun exposure, eat fatty fish, or drink fortified orange juice. When that’s not enough, supplements come to the rescue.

Try This Supplement: Journey Vitamin D3 Jellies are a fun and effective way to stay on top of your vitamin D levels, no sunshine required.

5. Zinc Deficiency

Zinc is a powerhouse mineral that supports immune health, wound healing, and even taste and smell. A deficiency could leave you more vulnerable to infections or struggling with slow recovery times.

How to Avoid It: Include shellfish, meat, seeds, and nuts in your meals. For an extra boost, consider supplementation.

Try This Supplement: Journey Sea Joint Support not only provides zinc but also includes other nutrients to support overall joint health and immunity.

6. Multivitamin Needs

Sometimes, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what you’re missing—especially after bariatric surgery when absorption is altered. A high-quality multivitamin can fill in the gaps and keep you covered across the board.

Try This Supplement: J1 One per Day Bariatric Multi Caplets or J2 Two per Day Berry Bariatric Chewable Tablets provide everything you need in one easy-to-take formula tailored for bariatric patients.

Staying Ahead of Deficiencies

Preventing nutritional deficiencies is all about balance. Listen to your body, eat a diverse range of foods, and don’t hesitate to supplement when needed. With a little effort, you’ll feel energized, strong, and ready to take on anything life throws your way.

For bariatric-specific needs, Bariatric Eating has your back. Their carefully formulated supplements are made with your health in mind, so you can stay nourished and thrive.

Your journey to better health starts here. Explore the complete line of vitamins and supplements at Bariatric Eating here.

Here’s to living your healthiest, happiest life! 😊