Importance of Calcium

Even though bariatric surgery promotes weight loss and improves conditions associated with excess weight, it is important to realise there are some nutrients which may be of more concern. After surgery, calcium absorption may be reduced, and it is important to make sure you are consuming foods high in calcium regularly to maintain your bone health. This includes foods such as:

• Dairy products such milk, yoghurt, or cheese regularly (you may opt for lactose free),
• Boney fish such as salmon and sardines
• Green leafy vegetables – bok choy, silver beet, kale, celery, cucumber
• Firm tofu, legumes, almonds, brazil nuts and sesame seeds,

The great thing is that all these foods (apart from the veggies), are also good sources of protein. If you struggle with these foods, you may also consider topping up with a calcium citrate-based supplement of no more than 600mg. Supplementation higher than this has been linked to increase risk of coronary artery disease, kidney stones and gallstones. Calcium intake is particularly important for women post menopause, as their daily requirements are increased. For individual advice, seek advice from our dietitians, who will tailor your diet to meet your individual needs.