I've had 2 bouts of iron deficiency anemia and recurring diagnoses of malabsorption during the 8 years I am post esophagectomy. There is definitely a connection between our inability to digest food AND absorb it and the fact that many of us have had some portion of our vagal nerve removed during the surgery which also impacts how our bodies digest nutrients.
Unfortunately, many doctors don't regularly monitor blood levels for ferritin and only look at hemoglobin numbers which can mask the anemia as i found out.
So... after struggling to not keep losing weight and being anemic and getting brittle bones - here's what I've learned:
Get blood tests regularly - ferritin, TIBC for iron levels and don't have drs just rely on hemoglobin levels
Also have B12 monitored - we're usually deficient in that as well
Have enzyme levels checked (EPI stool test) and even if it comes back OK ask dr for samples of Creon which is an enzyme replacement pill. Very expensive so I'd see if it even helps. I gained 2 pounds after starting them back in May but I found out my levels were low so my insurance is covering it
Let me know if you have other questions.