The STEP trial extension data covers up to 2 years, showing maintained weight loss as long as treatment continues
Despite its importance, B12 deficiency is remarkably common particularly among vegetarians, older adults, individuals with digestive conditions, and anyone whose body has difficulty absorbing this vitamin from food or oral supplements
However, several groups are at high risk of deficiency and may benefit significantly from regular injections or supplementation
Consult a licensed physician for personal medical decisions
It is worth noting, however, that the risk is lower after gastric banding than after procedures with a malabsorptive component, such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, because LAGB does not bypass or remove any part of the digestive tract