This article talks about the change in the bariatric patients weightload bearing as being the primary issue behind bone decalcification and while I agree that loadbearing is responsible for building bone strength, I don't subscribe to the theory that this is the only reason that these individuals are suffering critical bone loss.
More to the point, I think there's going to be a connection to nutritional, especially in this case, mineral absorption. I realize that the required mineral/vitamin complement is taken by the post-surgical bariatric patient in supplement form along with the tablespoon of food q4hrs or so and sure, they may be losing weight but from a quality nutritional standpoint are they getting what they need?
In terms of supplement preparation, there is a bioavailability factor that must be considered. While one may take supplements, those component substances may not be manufactured into a form which the body can asssimilate or be taken in conjunction with other elements which enhance or facilitate absorption. When you don't take in the required amount of in this case, calcium, your body will catabolize its own source of the mineral, bone tissue, in order to use it in other more critical areas like impulse conduction.
I realize that many patients having undergone this surgery are successful but how many? How many are not? Given this report, there's evidence to question whether any comprehensive lifestyle and nutritional study has been done say, six months out. Are the supplements evaluated for bioavailability? Additionally, weight training promotes bone strength. As part of their postoperative education, are the patients advised of this and are they being instructed?
Finally, knowing how much the issues of obesity and nutrition are lifestyle related, what part of of this problem can be attributed to patient compliance?
R