Please help I'm going bald

Hi all I read this board all the time and try only to post when I'm really in a pickle. I sure am now. I am 3 1/2 mos post op (down 82# !!!!!!) but my hair is falling out by the handful all of a sudden. And before you all ask, NO, I am probably not getting enough protein. I do take a multi vitamin every day. Is it not enough protein that's causing this problem? Literally when I take a shower my hair falls out in clumps. It's awful. Any advice? Thanks so much Mary

Mary, yes, I'm sure it is your lack of protein that is causing your hair loss, that is what hair is made of. Try stepping it up (I am pre-op, so eay for me to say, but I am also an RN and can tell you even from nonpurposeful malnutrition this happens.)......

Hi Mary, There is no definitive way to stop the hair loss. I personally think that it is caused by a combination of things that we have no control over. I have been extremely lucky as I have not had any hair loss this time. A few years ago I had some one day surgery and experienced hair loss a couple of months after that. My hairdresser at the time said it was from the anthesthia. This time I have not (8months out) had any hair loss but the texture of my hair has changed. I do get alot of protein every day. Way over the 50 grams sometimes close to 100grams during a day. I don't put much in my mouth that doesn't have some kind of protein in it and I haven't used the protein shakes in months. I will have a protein bar occasionally if I am in a hurry or someplace where I can't get healthy food. I also drink at least 96oz of fluids day most of the time its more like 128 oz. I don't know if that has helped or not. I know this hasn't been the answer you were looking for but be assured that your hair will grow back!! Up your protein and keep in mind that this is temporary but the weight loss can be permenant!!!!! Linda

Research suggests that it is lack of protein in your diet that causes the hair loss. You may want to incorporate a WHEY protein shake or bar. If you go to GNC they sell NITRO-TECH bars and shakes, which are extremely high in protein...the bars are 35grams each. The shakes are up to 45grams per serving. You may want to include a bar or shake serving everyday into your diet.

And also Hood makes "Carb Countdown" yogurt, avail @ Stop and Shop, Shaws, etc...12grams of Whey Protein per serving. Easy protein source.

Hi Mary, I agree with what everyone else said but I want to ad done thing...CONGRATS on your awesome weight loss! It sounds like you're doing great! And dont be a stranger, post anytime, not just when your in a pickle! -Deb

Mary -- You're in good company with the hair loss. A lot of weight loss surgery patients go through a period where they lose their hair. I'm sure it's due to lack of protein/nutrients. Biotin and Inositol are 2 supplements you can take for hair loss, but frankly you'll most likely need to ride it out. I started losing my hair (and lots of it!) about 4 months out & it continued for a about 2 months. It's now back to normal. So there is hope. Congrats on the weight loss -- you're doing great!!!! Kathy F.

First of all, holy smokes on your weight loss. Congratulations! You are obviously doing something right! All roads point to not enough protein, so just kick it up a notch. I am having trouble with protein intake and I am doing everything possible to get this nasty @$$ Isopure down, so Isabella suggested mixing it with Crystal Light and it makes it bareable. Try that. I am with Jon on the Nitro-Tech bars. They are sooooo scrumptious! I get the s'mores kind and it really tastes like the s'mores granola bars. I just love 'em. "How can you have any pudding if you don't eat your meat?" EAT CHICKEN! High in protein. I haven't tried any protein shakes, so I can't offer any opnions on that just yet. Tara

I had a feeling it was the protein. Thanks to all of you *****sponded. It's so nice to know there's so much support out there. I will kick it up a notch with the protein and see if that helps. thanks again