Question:
Not enough protein

What are the dangers of not getting enough protein? I feel pretty good with good energy, but I know I don't get the recommended amount of protein. I don't take any type of protein drink or shake. I am only 2 months post op, though. Should I be doing something else?    — N. H. (posted on October 25, 2007)


October 25, 2007
How attached are you to your hair???? If you don't get enough protien, your hair will fall out. I am not joking! I am 4 years post op and I can finally say that all my hair has grown back. I do notice that now that if I don't get enough protien I will notice that my hair starts to fall out again. Find a shake or a protien bar that you can tolerate at eat it.
   — Carlyn M.

October 25, 2007
I agree with Carlyn. I lost alot of hair because I did not drink or take in enough protein. Hit the shakes and stay with them or you will regret it. I have yet to see my hair return and I am 3 1/2 years post op. Best wishes, Mickey
   — MCraig3

October 25, 2007
On top of hair loss etc etc protein is the building block for muscle. I know you want to lose as much weight as possible but you want to retain muscle. For one it helps burn fat and two you want to look as good with your clothes off as on right? Please stick with the protein and if you want more options in doing so I am a personal trainer and sports nutrition specialist and will help you find something to help you meet your goals. Don't hesitate to contact me [email protected]. Good luck and stick with it!
   — maxmuscle1342

October 25, 2007
Hi Nikki! I have been a Nurse Tech for 20 years...I do know from caring for the sick, that protein feeds the muscle and helps your body repair. You want to lose the excess fat not your muscle, which burns more calories! There are lots of foods rich in Protein and you should be getting at least 50 grams if not more! Do you like yogert? It is a good source. Good luck to you!
   — lesleigh07

October 25, 2007
You must not like your hair. Either that or you have wigs etc. Not to mention, not getting in your protein will not allow you to lose weight as fast and as SAFELY as possible, and well you apparently don't care for your health. You can go downhill quite fast--you won't pass go, you won't collect $200 you will end up in the emergency room because you are malnourished. You have already done damage to your hair, so nothing in the entire world is going to stop it once it starts to fall out. (it may not happen until the 3rd month) You need to get in at LEAST 70 grams of protein each and every day! Did your nutritionist/surgeon not go over this with you? Head to the nearest walmart or GNC etc and get you some protein powder or liquid etc asap and start taking it every single day! I would also start taking 5000 mcg of Biotin at least 3 capsules each day. It won't stop your hair loss but it will make the new growth grow back in faster (maybe) and your nails will also be in tip top shape and grow faster. Good luck, God bless and welcome to the losing side!
   — crystalsno

October 25, 2007
I know it's hard early on. But I have to agree with the others - getting enough protein, your liquids and taking your vits are non-negotiable. But early on - until about 4 mos. post for me - I had NO appetite. Just do the best you can but be aware that failing energy, not healing well and losing your hair will become apparent if you don't get protein. The only shakes I can stand are fruit-based with added protein powder. I did find a protein bar with a lot of nuts that I like (the chocolate flavor in those tastes gross to me). What has been a life saver to me is the Liquid Whey Protein Bullets by IDS proteins (there are others too). It's 42g of protein in about a 3 oz. "jello shot." Grape and fruit punch are pretty good - try Vitamin Shoppe or www.bariatriceating.com for those (can't find them at GNC). Talk to your doctor about this - they can offer suggestions and keep you accountable. This is your health so take it seriously. Good luck to you! ~Sarah in VA
   — platypus

October 25, 2007
AS IT WAS EXPLAINED TO ME; the only thing your body cannot produce is protein. if you do not get enough protein your body starts to use the protein from your muscles and organs ie. your heart. Yes you should be doing protein drinks and eating, fish,chicken,turkey. all low fat, only 15 grams of carbs. 3 oz. of protein at eat meal if you had lapband. if you hyad another type of wls, check with your nutritionist. didn't you get liturature and guidelines to follow. Please, please talk at least to your Doc. for your health's sake. BEV GOBLE
   — GRANNYG

October 25, 2007
Can't answer your question, I haven't had my surgery yet...6 more days to go, but I wanted to congratulate you, you look terrific, great job, gives me inspiration!!! Pawlla
   — PAWLLA L.

October 25, 2007
I agree with everyone else. You need that protien for you to keep your hair and your muscle. I was told that I had to get 65-75 grams of protien a day. I use MuscleMilk Light protien drink and I get the chocolate milk flavor. It isn't chalky and it does taste a lot like chocolate milk. You need to get going on this ASAP!
   — Brenda R.

October 26, 2007
I know it's hard to get in your protein at first. Have you tried protein balls. I personally can't take the powdered protein powder in milk or anything else. I make protein balls and their is appr. 10 grams of protein per ball. If you'd like my recipe just e-mail me at [email protected], also you can go into the forum under recipe's and get several recipes for protein balls. They really help me in getting in my protein each and every day. Good luck and keep your chin up.
   — GrammaAnn

October 26, 2007
I cant stomach protein shakes either an easy solution 16oz. skim milk with 2 packets of diet swiss miss hot choclate heat and drink 20-22grams of protein and it tastes awesome!!
   — danosteve




Click Here to Return
×