Question:
What is the recommended mg of biotin?

I having surgery in 3/30. Im trying to take supplements now to get a headstart. I hear biotin helps with potential hair loss. Can anyone tell me what amount of daily mg's I should take. Also, any other tips about vitamins and supplements before surgery?    — T. Preston (posted on February 16, 2010)

February 16, 2010
I take SOLARAY Biotin (5000 mcg) Tangy Fruit Flavor Lozenges. A 60 day supply is $9.95 through AllStarHealth.com. I also use a Biotin shampoo and a Biotin conditioner. I'm 3 months post-op and haven't had any hairloss thus far, but I guess now is about the time it usually starts if I'm going to have that temporary problem. Congrats on your upcoming surgery! I'm so grateful to have had mine!
   — Janell C.

February 16, 2010
I had hairloss, but I made sure I got my 60 grams of protein and 64oz of water daily. The loss wasn't bad but there was hair loss. I too take biotin daily. Also, make sure you take Vit C with your iron at night, two hours after you take your calicum citrate. Good luck
   — FSUMom

February 16, 2010
I'm surprised as a nurse you don't already know or realize you can ask your nutritionist this question. I began taking a 5,000 pill a few months before my rny. The pills were large so after surgery I started taking 5 1,000 pills because the pills are smaller. I take 2 in the morning, one at noon, and two in the evening. I still had some hair loss however I have noticed my hair and nails are stronger and in better condition. Good luck on your journey!
   — Caribou ME

February 16, 2010
As a nurse, I know a lot of things and Ive done plenty of research but it has nothing to do with asking what others are doing. When Im here, Im a new WLS patient seeking information. What I have learned about WLS is that there is more than one way to skin a cat. Take protein for instance. Some say 60-80mg, some people's daily protein intake is as much as 100mg. Im open to any tips(key word) that may help my journey. When all is said and done, it will be done with the collaboration of me, my Dr and my Nut. Thanks to all for your advice it greatly appreciated.
   — T. Preston

February 17, 2010
I just wanted to point out that this is a support system not a place to criticize. I as well have done lots of research, have several friends that have had RNY, but I still like looking and posting on this support system. I guess some people should not say(post) anything if they can't say(post) something nice to others....I think every question posted here is vaulable to someone. Thanks Alice
   — Alice B.

February 17, 2010
I take 5,000 mcg (5 mg) morning and night. I also use Nioxin products for "fine and visibly thinning hair". I had some significant (at least to ME) hairloss about 4-7 months after surgery (judging from the amount of hair I cleaned out of the tub drain after a shower)...but recently that amount is almost negligible. And, my hairdresser says that she sees a lot of new growth and/or regrowth. So, I'd say that making sure you get plenty of protein - Susan Maria from the BariatricEating website says you should shoot for at least 100 grams, and if you can get in more, even up to 125 or so is good... then you shouldn't have much if any problem with hair loss.
   — Erica Alikchihoo

February 17, 2010
Thanks for your post Alice. Even when IM doing patient care, I always feel like I can learn something from my patients as well. I love and appreciate this site and all of the valuable information I receive.
   — T. Preston