Breastfeeding after bariatric surgery

Nutrient deficiencies

Regardless of the type of bariatric surgery performed - from gastric bypass to gastric sleeve - the result is a smaller stomach that can hold less food, with food passing through the digestive system more quickly. Often supplements are required for the rest of one's life, especially vitamin B12.

Breast milk nutrient deficiency was one of the key topics included in the world's first systematic review of studies into bariatric surgery and breastfeeding, carried out by researchers from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Graduate Program at Central Michigan University, USA³.

In a few cases, infants born to post-bariatric surgery mothers developed deficiencies in B12 as well as other issues, including anemia, methylmalonic aciduria and neutropenia. One infant who was exclusively breastfed for 10 months showed 25% developmental delays. Another failed to thrive by 10 months.

However, in general, the breast milk of people who have undergone bariatric surgery was found to contain enough nutrients for their babies. When nutrients were deficient, they were easily corrected - in both mother and child.

Close monitoring

More research to establish guidelines - and to discover the reasons behind the lower rates of breastfeeding. In the meantime, the researchers recommend regular screening and close monitoring of mothers and their child. One example is the need to take 350-500g of vitamin B12 - which is much higher than the usual 6g found in most multivitamins. Any nutrient deficiencies should be treated immediately.

If possible, it is also better to wait at least 1 year after bariatric surgery to become pregnant. This gives the body time to adjust to the new way of eating, and for weight to become stable.

With the support of midwives and other healthcare professionals, mothers who have had bariatric surgery can breastfeed their infants successfully. Considering the scientific evidence that breastfeeding helps prevent obesity in the children of mothers who have undergone bariatric surgery, this is a goal well worth achieving.