What are the long-term issues that occur when having a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery?
I’ve heard that absorption of nutrients decreases. — Barbara Kinback, Lake Jackson, Texas Reduction in nutrient absorption following a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is fairly minimal. The major problem comes from iron and vitamin B12. These are poorly absorbed and need to be supplemented. Calcium absorption is reduced and needs supplementation. A primary care physician should conduct annual checks of basic nutritional measures. I was intrigued to hear ghrelin mentioned in the news story about bariatric surgery. I had read about this appetite-producing hormone years ago. Is there any research being done on weight control through ghrelin regulation? — Wendy Smith, Camp Hill, Pa. Ghrelin is a hormone secreted by the stomach that induces appetite. Studies looking to see if ghrelin is affected by gastric bypass are very inconsistent. Based on currently available information, no one can conclude that ghrelin is involved in the gastric bypass effect on eating. The exact mechanisms by which gastric
