Bariatric surgery is considered one of the most effective methods of achieving long-term weight loss in morbidly obese patients. Nevertheless, bariatric procedures are associated with a number of complications, and nutrient deficiencies can lead to deleterious consequences. Furthermore, the diet of patients prior to bariatric surgery is often of poor nutrition quality that does not meet the recommended dietary guidelines for micronutrient intake. Therefore, optimization of the postoperative nutritional status should begin before surgery. This review covers the essential information about micronutrient management in patients before and after bariatric surgery.

Trace-elements play an important role in human metabolism. Often overlooked by clinicians, they are mandatory to supply for the patient with parenteral nutrition. When it is deficient or excessive, inadequate provision of trace elements can lead to serious complication. The nutrition provider should monitor deficiency and toxicity of each trace element carefully. In Korea, five trace elements (Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Chromium, and Selenium) are commercially available. However, according to the up to date recommendation, their dosages are not adequate for patients with long term parenteral nutrition. In this review, I considered the adequate dosage of each trace element under specific conditions, and provided a guideline for monitoring of trace elements.