Why You Need Regular Blood Tests After Bariatric Surgery — And What Each One Tells Us
- rachelkibble7
- May 1
- 2 min read
Weight loss surgery changes everything — from how you absorb nutrients to how your body processes hormones. But here’s the truth:
You can’t tell what’s happening inside just by how you feel.
That’s why blood tests are essential — even if you feel “fine.”
At Health Check Antalya, we specialise in post-bariatric blood testing. Not just the basics — but the full picture. Here’s a breakdown of what we check and why:
1. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
Tests: Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Calcium, Glucose, BUN, Creatinine
Why it matters: These show how your kidneys, blood sugar, and electrolytes are functioning. Deficiencies or imbalances can lead to fatigue, dizziness, confusion, and even irregular heartbeat.
2. Liver Function Tests (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, Bilirubin)
Why: Your liver works overtime during rapid weight loss. These tests help us spot early signs of fatty liver, inflammation, or liver strain.
3. Total Protein, Albumin, Pro-Albumin
Why: Low protein levels affect wound healing, immune function, energy, and hair/nail strength. This is a common issue after surgery if protein intake drops.
4. Thyroid Panel (TSH, Free T4, Free T3, T3 Uptake, FTI)
Why: Many post-op patients experience thyroid dysfunction — often missed because only TSH is tested. We check everything to understand how your thyroid is really working.
5. Ferritin, Iron, TIBC, % Saturation
Why: Low iron can cause extreme fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, or hair loss. And post-op, iron deficiency is very common — especially after bypass surgeries.
6. Vitamin Panel (B12, Folate, B6, Vitamin D, A, E, K)
Why: These control everything from your nervous system to bone health. B12 and Vitamin D are two of the most frequently missed causes of fatigue post-op.
7. Minerals: Zinc, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Copper, Selenium
Why: They support your immune system, hormone function, energy production, and healing. Deficiencies can lead to infections, mood swings, or delayed recovery.
8. Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) + Calcium
Why: Calcium levels alone can be misleading. PTH tells us how your body is regulating calcium and bone health — especially in the presence of low vitamin D.
9. Lipid Profile (Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, Triglycerides)
Why: Post-op, your cholesterol levels will shift — we track this to ensure your cardiovascular health is improving alongside your weight loss.
10. Inflammation & Nutrient Absorption Markers (CRP, LDH, MMA, Homocysteine, Cortisol)
Why: These help us understand deeper issues like inflammation, B12 function, adrenal health, and overall nutrient absorption efficiency.
What If My GP Won’t Order These?
Most NHS blood tests only include the basics.
But post-bariatric patients need more. And unfortunately, many people are told their results are “fine” when they’re not.
That’s where we come in.
At Health Check Antalya, we offer full post-op blood panels reviewed by specialists who understand your surgery and what your body needs now — not what a standard lab range says.
Want Peace of Mind?
We offer:
Full in-person health checks in Antalya
Expert interpretation of your results
A personalised review — with clear, practical advice
Click below to learn more or book your check-up.
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