Question:
after 3 years post-op am i still only absorbing 2/3 Cal & Vitamins

Ive been stable at my current weight for 1 year but feel i can start dieting now to loose the rest. If I eat 1200 Calories will I only absorb 800?    — itsme00313 (posted on March 7, 2006)

March 7, 2006
I wish it were that easy. RNY patients malabsorb certain vitamins and some fat.....not calories.
   — RebeccaP

March 7, 2006
it took me initially 5 good years to reach my goal weight. I still have to be carefull with my choices in food with what I put in my mouth, and to eat sensibly and slow. I remain thin and slim and I have not gained any weight back. However I am careful and do follow all of my doctor and nutritionist instructions since day one. The most important thing is I don't drink and eat together and I don't drink carbonated soft drinks/beer at all no matter what. I eat every 2 hours small portions of food and slowly.
   — Dani96

March 7, 2006
Mal-absorption is for life after WLS. I saw your web page and you look great, and your BMI is less than 28; you are normal. Honestly, you are looking just fine. Go to the Spa and enjoy your results.
   — sor09

March 7, 2006
If they are sugar calories, you absorb 100% of everything. I've never counted calories, but I know as long as I am doing protein supps & healthy foods, I can do close to 2000 (1200 in protein supps alone). I am very distal, but if I get involved with sugar, I will gain like I did pre-op. Like right in front of my very eyes! As far as I can see, we never malabsorb calories, but it's the nutrients we lose and that's for life.
   — vitalady

March 7, 2006
The 2/3 is only a guess and as time goes by your body does absorb more. You shouldn't think in temr of amount of claories you will not absorb but rather if you eat 1200 calories you have eaten 1200 calories. By the way if you do eat 1200 calories you will probably lose more weight that is still considered low especially if you combine that with exercise. Good Luck!
   — SteffieBear15