Micronutrient supplementation and obesity surgery as modulators of iron homeostasis

Abstract

Bariatric surgery is the most successful treatment for obesity but it may result in specific nutritional deficiencies, such as iron deficiency, especially in women of childbearing age since they require more iron to maintain appropriate erythropoiesis. On the other hand, inflammation and iron homeostasis improve after surgery, so dietary supplementation to meet the nutritional requirement is questionable. Hence, the aim of the present study is to analyze the effects of micronutrient supplementation and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass on iron homeostases and inflammation in obese women. This prospective study will include 40 morbidly obese women who will be followed up and asked to start vitamin and mineral supplementation 40 days before surgery and stop 6 months after surgery. Anthropometric indicators, inflammatory and metabolic markers, and gene expression associated with iron metabolism and food intake will be assessed. In addition to clarifying aspects of iron metabolism in the presence of inflammation and iron depletion, the generated knowledge will possibly help to establish strategies for monitoring surgery results. (AU)