Hair loss
I'm 6 months post-op and have lost 82 lbs, feeling great BUT my hair has started to fall out. I'm not talking alittle here and there, I'm talking about when I brush my hair the brush is full. I'm trying hard to get my protein in but can't seem to reach the 60-80 gms a day (aprox. 40). I can't seem to find protein bars or shakes that I like. If anyone has any suggestions for me I would be greatful.
Kathy,
On my surgery month message board, we've been discussing hair loss. Someone said that anesthesia kills some hair follicles and it's just part of the process that you will lose some hair. I am 3 months post-op and I would characterize what I've been doing as "shedding." No big clumps or bunches of hair, but a lot more lost hairs in the tub & sink. Anyway, apparently this will last for awhile, then the follicles will heal and your hair will return to normal. Maybe it's just something we have to tough out? As for getting enough protein, I don't do the shakes...couldn't stomach them. I eat a lot of high-protein foods (eggs, yogurt, nuts, fish, chicken, cheese) and very little else. I'd say 85-90% of my food intake is protein. I kept track for awhile and I was averaging 76 grams of protein a day. Now, I miss fruits and veggies (don't miss bread--it makes me yack!), but I'd rather do this than choke down a couple of protein shakes every day. Yuck!
Jennifer
Thank you for that information, I hope this will return to normal soon because it is really scaring me. I was on the Atkins diet before my surgery and I swore if I had to eat another egg I would die. I can't find a yogurt that doesn't have alot of sugar content (don't like vanilla), I tried to limit the nuts due to the fat, and I'm not fond of fishy fish. I LOVE cheese but afraid it will clog me up. Boy, do I sound really picky and a pain in the butt (lol). Now you can see my dilemma.
I noticed that Dr. Alexander did your surgery, he did mine as well. I was living in OH but just moved back to KY two months ago. I was have severe stomach pains and couldn't get past Nancy to see Dr. Alexander. I got frustrated and found Dr. Smith in Edgewood who does the same surgery and studied with Dr. Alexander. I think he might even fill in for him when he is out of town. I got right in to see him and he is wonderful. I've been to support group at Christ but if your interested there is a support group in Erlanger (shorter drive for you). It is great, they are talking about having a fashion show, Christmas party, and have guest speakers all the time. If you want to check out the web page it is www.Advancedbariatriccenter.com and the dates are on there.
Thank you for all your help,
Kathy
Hi Kathy! Just wanted to give you a suggestion for a protein shake. I am 14 weeks post-op, and I have been using this protein shake since surgery. GNC nutrition center has a protein powder called 100% whey protein. It comes in Vanilla, Chocolatte, and Strawberry flavors. I use the vanilla because it can mixed with other flavors. I also use CARB CONSCIOUS Carnation Instant Breakfast. Mix 8oz of skim milk, one scoop of whey protein, and one packet of Carnation Instant Breakfast. The 8oz. protein shake has 34g of protein. I drink one every morning for breakfast. As long as you drink it over a 1-2 hour period, it will not stretch your stomach. The CARB CONSCIOUS Carnation Instant Breakfast is difficult to find, but I have been told that you can go to www.nestle.com to order it. The protein shake tastes just like a Carnation Instant Breakfast- you can't taste the protein at all. Hope this works for you!!!
Cassie
I've tried the whey protein power and didn't like it BUT never thought to mix it with the Nestle instant breakfast drink. Thank you for your advise. Good luck to you in your new journey. I can't believe how this has turned my life around in such a short period of time.
Good luck and God Bless,
Kathy