Question

Vitamin to be supplemented after gastrectomy?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin C
• C. Vitamin B12
• D. Vitamin D

Hint:

Patients who undergo gastrectomy should be monitored for vitamin B12 deficiency, as the surgery impairs the absorption of this vitamin.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

After a gastrectomy, which is the surgical removal of part or all of the stomach, patients are commonly advised to supplement with certain vitamins due to potential malabsorption issues. One critical vitamin that needs supplementation is Vitamin B12.

• Reason: The stomach produces intrinsic factor, a protein essential for the absorption of Vitamin B12 in the small intestine. After a gastrectomy, the production of intrinsic factor is significantly reduced or completely absent, leading to Vitamin B12 deficiency unless supplemented.

Therefore, Vitamin B12 supplementation is crucial to prevent deficiencies that can lead to anemia and neurological problems.