I just found this forum and have a question. I had my surgery 2years ago, out of country, to save money and therefore had no post op advice. My weight loss is acceptable however my Iron levels are extremely low and have found that iron supplements or even iron shots do not work. Is this common? And if so, how do you manage to keep your iron levels at a safe and consistent level? Because of my low iron, I am unable to workout and feel terribly unfit which is ironic as I was honestly fitter when I was heavier. Thank you so much.

Edited October 5, 201411 yr by Smiley63

Is your anemia related to your food intake or is your intake not a problem and a monthly loss (assuming you are a female!!) is causing the deficit? Fixing the issue will depend on what's causing it.

If proper nutrition and supplements aren't helping, this sounds like a question for your primary care physician, if you have one. If not, go to a clinic and talk to someone. In the past (long before bariatric surgery) I suffered from extreme anemia and had to be hospitalized. It's nothing to take lightly.

I have chronic anemia and had to have my surgery delayed due to it. My Nut put me on Celebrate iron, 60mg per day. She said it absorbs more effectively. I buy it online. My iron level doubled in 30 days on it, my bruising decreased, and my energy increased. She said it will be a life long thing.

Edited October 5, 201411 yr by JCP

I should add that I am 56 so periods do not factor in and I have no underlying conditions. Have just been anemic most of my life.

Thank you for your responses. My dr. seems to think anemia is common after the
sleeve because they've removed half our stomach. Iron is absorbed in the small intestine and that's been compromised (apparently) My family physician is not very familiar with bariatrics. I'm looking for a local doctor who assists in the post
care of bariatric patients. Because I had it done out of country, I was on
my own once I returned back home. I don't seem to absorbing iron through
food, shots or supplements. -- Only infusions. I'm sure my periods don't
help matters but I doubt they're the main cause. I was just wondering if
others are having the same problem? And if so, how are you being treated?