Question:
For those who have had BPD/DS or distal RNY, is it hard to get enough vitamins in?

I am just wondering if getting in enough vitamins is a real issue for those who have had a lot of intestines bypassed. How many vitamins do you have to take every day? Have you had any problems with vitamin or other deficiencies? Also, are the BM's really a big issue, as in their size or smell? Does anyone wish they had not got a distal bypass procedure? I am worried I am not making the right decision for myself, in getting a proximal RNY. But because I am still fairly young (23) I worry about nutritional deficiency long-term. Also, I HATE swallowing pills, and can't imagine taking them every day for the rest of my life. With distal procedures, would taking Flinstones vitamins work for getting in the vitamins?    — Jennifer Y. (posted on February 16, 2002)

February 16, 2002
I am 34 years old and have a 60" distal RNY. I currently take 300 mg of Iron, 1000 mg of Vit. C (chewable), 2 multi vitamins (Childrens chewable - sugar free), Vit. E, Vit. A&D, 2500 mg Calcium Citrate, 100 mg of Zinc, and have also included a vitamin for hair, skin, and nails. I, too, am worried about vitamin deficiency, but I split these up throughout the day but these are all faily small (except for the calcium), but it's in a capsule form that slides down very easily. Regarding the BM's, at the beginning, I had diarrhea, but as time goes on, they are harder. Yes, they are horrible smelling, but remember that we (RNY) don't absorb any food so therefore that's the reason for the bad smell. (I have a wonderful smelling spray that I use that works great.) I hope this helps. (Tina 60" distal RNY 08/28/01 78 lbs gone forever!!)
   — trtorrey

February 16, 2002
I was so worried about taking vitamins - I have tried repeatedly throughout my life, and never followed through. Somehow, when you know your life depends on it, it becomes much easier! My surgery was the DS. From the third week post-op, I have taken: 2 multi-vitamins and 3 calcium supplements. For a while I took an extra zinc, because my zinc was low. I have my blood work done every 6 months and adjust accordingly. My 18 month blood work was perfect in every respect. As far as BMs - they stink! This is some of the worst smelling poop in the world. I have 2 - 3 per day, use an aromatherapy candle at home, and the courtesy flush out in public, and have never regretted this surgery for even an instant. -Kate-
   — kateseidel

February 16, 2002
Jennifer, I have to tell you I may be one of the "odd" ones, but my bm's don't smell any worse since my DS than they did before. They just smell different--slightly more pungent, I really can't explain it, but definitely not "worse." <p>At first, my bms were very loose, but as time has gone by, they are becoming more firm. I only have diarrhea when I overindulge in high-fat foods. <p>As far as vitamins go, I hate swallowing pills whole--especially vitamins, so I take the chewable multivatamins at night (they are on my nightstand) and chewable calcium in the morning with a small glass of chocolate milk (skim and sugar-free). Thus far, I'm feeling fantastic--healthier than I've felt in years.
   — artistmama

February 16, 2002
I've never had a problem, but I was double your age, very sick and already taking a truckload of prescription meds just to stay alive. So, my perspective may have been a bit different than yours. You're here NOW, trying to avoid being as sick as I was. Anyone whose digestive system has been disabled (with or without permission) will need to supplement SOME elements, sooner or later. Calcium is a big issue for us and it IS criminal see someone of 28 less than 2 years post-op who already is showing osteoporosis. Just chewable vites ALONE do not address the issues specifically created when we lose the function of the lower stomach & jejunum. They are a good base, but don't cover all the specific RNY bases. However, they are fine for the multi-vite portion. As a distal, I take many more pills than a proximal would, but our calcium needs are nearly identical. Weight loss alone, by diet even, can cause bone thinning. But again, my outlook may be different than yours. I lost 150 lbs, so I'd gladly take 150 pills/day if it meant never having to feel as I did 7 yrs ago.
   — vitalady