Question:
Should DS patients be taking extra calcuim too?

As a DS patient, I've never been told to take extra calcium. Should I be taking extra? Since our stomachs are basically full functioning (not a pouch like RNY patients), does it matter if the calcium is citrate or carbonate?    — Cinna G. (posted on April 30, 2003)

April 30, 2003
Yes. If you are losing weight, you need to be taking calcium. Lots. If you are malabsorbing, you need yet more. Carbonate is not well absorbed by ANYONE. So, you're just ahead if you use citrate + mag + D.
   — vitalady

April 30, 2003
I'm 2 yrs post op and since day 1 my surgeon has had me on calcium. I was taking 1 3x a day but now I take 4 3x a day. One dose I double. I'm 42 and to prevent osteopoerosis. I wouldn't take any without first consulting with your surgeon, nutritionist or PCP. Best wishes and continued success
   — Linda M.

May 2, 2003
Cinda, Dr. Elariny's post-op vitamin/mineral prescription includes 2,000 mg of calcium citrate per day for DSers. Did he give you something different?
   — Tally

May 2, 2003
Yes, you absolutely should be taking extra calcium. My surgeon, who does the DS now almost exclusively and has for years, recommends 1,500 - 2,000 grams of calcium supplements per day. And the DS stomach has had a significant portion of its acid producing function removed; we may get slightly more use from carbonate, but it is certainly nothing I would risk. -Kate-
   — kateseidel

May 2, 2003
Yes, my Dr has me on 1500 grams calcium citrate, for better absorption. Also, I take B-12, Vitamin D, Iron, Multivitamin, and Biotin. I take these daily, for life. For 6 months after my surgery I take Prevacid for my stomach.Good luck.
   — Leslie E.