Which supplement do patients with ileostomies often require?

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Multiple Choice

Which supplement do patients with ileostomies often require?

Explanation:
Vitamin B12 absorption requires the terminal ileum and intrinsic factor. In an ileostomy, the terminal ileum is bypassed or removed, so B12 cannot be efficiently absorbed. As a result, patients often need B12 supplementation to prevent or treat deficiency, typically via periodic injections or high-dose oral therapy since body stores can be depleted over time. Vitamin A, C, and calcium aren't the classic deficiencies specific to ileostomy alone, so they are not routinely required solely because of an ileostomy.

Vitamin B12 absorption requires the terminal ileum and intrinsic factor. In an ileostomy, the terminal ileum is bypassed or removed, so B12 cannot be efficiently absorbed. As a result, patients often need B12 supplementation to prevent or treat deficiency, typically via periodic injections or high-dose oral therapy since body stores can be depleted over time.

Vitamin A, C, and calcium aren't the classic deficiencies specific to ileostomy alone, so they are not routinely required solely because of an ileostomy.

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