Iron, Vitamin B12, Folate and Copper Deficiency After Bariatric Surgery and the Impact on Anaemia: a Systematic Review

Lewis et al., 2020 | Obes Surg | Systematic Review

Citation

Lewis Carrie-Anne, de Jersey Susan, ... Osland Emma. Iron, Vitamin B12, Folate and Copper Deficiency After Bariatric Surgery and the Impact on Anaemia: a Systematic Review. Obes Surg. 2020-Nov;30(11):4542-4591. doi:10.1007/s11695-020-04872-y

Abstract

Bariatric surgery may increase the risk of iron, vitamin B12, folate and copper deficiencies, which can cause anaemia. This review aims to critique the evidence on the prevalence of these nutritional deficiencies and the impact on anaemia in the first 12 months after surgery. PRISMA and MOOSE frameworks, the NHMRC evidence hierarchy and The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics bias tool were used to systematically critique current literature. Seventeen studies reported on deficiency prevalence with the majority being of low quality. Important confounders to serum micronutrient levels were not adequately considered. Results on the prevalence of nutritional anaemias were also lacking. Further investigation into the prevalence of iron, vitamin B12, folate and copper deficiency and its impact on anaemia in bariatric surgery is needed.

Key Findings

Further investigation into the prevalence of iron, vitamin B12, folate and copper deficiency and its impact on anaemia in bariatric surgery is needed.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition deficiency

MeSH Terms

  • Anemia
  • Bariatric Surgery
  • Copper
  • Folic Acid
  • Gastric Bypass
  • Humans
  • Iron
  • Obesity, Morbid
  • Vitamin B 12
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency
  • Vitamins

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: vitamin-b12

Provenance


Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09