Question:
Can protein really be

I've heard such varied opinions on this, and cannot get a clear answer even from my surgeon, as he isn't a fan of protein drinks. Can your body truly "store" or "build up" a reserve of protein if you do shakes and supplements pre-op, or is it just a waste of money (which is what the nutritionist says)... I'd like to hear from anyone who was instructed in this (either for or against) by their docs... thanks. (sorry if this has been asked before, I tried searching the library but it is WAY too overwhelming, couldn't find it).    — Kelly B. (posted on June 30, 2003)

June 30, 2003
Saw my dietitian for the first time last week and I asked her if I should take protein drinks before surgery (August 11) and she said it would not be necessary to take it beforehand as I am already getting enough protein for now. It is basically an unnecessary cost at the moment since I don't need the extra protein. Hope this helps.
   — Checker B.

June 30, 2003
Nope, nadda, no way! :~) It doesn't store protein, so don't bother ahead of time! :~) It can actually make you gain fat, if you aren't working out. The protein drink is there to nourish your MUSCLES, and if you aren't working them out, you will just add fat to your body.
   — Sharon M. B.

June 30, 2003
My doc pre-loads people pre-op now. The tissue is easier to work on. I've heard it again & again. The pre-loaded people have tissue like softr suede vs wet tissue. Many people choose to pre-load on their own, and find their recoveries much faster & smoother. For post-op, we sign a contract promising protein supps for life. *I* don't have any problem with this as I maintain ny goal wt (110-115) with minimal effort because of the protein supplement
   — vitalady

June 30, 2003
Protein not burned up by daily activities is treated like any othre macronutrient (which are proteins, carbs & fats) - excess calories taken in are converted to fat...JR
   — John Rushton

June 30, 2003
I have to agree with Michelle. Not to disagree with any of the previous posters but protein, when used appropriately, does NOT make you gain weight and it absolutely will help you lose weight. It also can aid in a faster, easier recovery. Using protein products to lose weight prior to surgery aids in reducing the size of the liver which makes the surgery easier on the surgeon which ultimately makes it easier on the patient. Protein tends to be a controversial issue among WLS patients and physicians. However, in my personal experience it's made all the difference in the world and that's just a fact. Best wishes!!
   — ronascott

July 2, 2003
I also agree with Michelle and the other posters who believe that adding protein pre-op is better for recovery. I started protein supps way before surgery without any weight gain at all. My surgery was LAP, but my wounds healed much faster than others I know who also had LAP that didn't have the extra protein. Just my .02.
   — Jeralyn Merideth

July 2, 2003
I am still pre-op but my doctor has his patients do protein shakes ONLY for 2 weeks pre and post op. He said that he does this for 2 reasons: 1-it helps reduce the fat around the liver making lap easier and 2-it minimizes the binge eating at the last minute that many of us do.
   — Maridee B.