Question:
Will I have a problem post-op since I already have serious calcium deficiency?

Since the removal of my thyroid and cancer in 1994, I have had a serious calcium deficiency and with my arthritis, my DR is very concerned about osteoporosis. The bottom of the normal chart for calcium is 10.5 and at last test, my calcium level was 7.2. He keeps warning me not to fall because I will likely break bones. I keep reading things on the message board about calcium problems and I wonder if I will have worse problems post-op with calcium? Has anyone had any experience with this?    — Cheryl T. (posted on April 6, 2002)

April 6, 2002
There are calcium absorbtion problems with both DS and RNY, but part of the reason I chose DS is that the problem doesn't seem as bad with it. As far as your intestines go, calcium is primarily absorbed in the duodenum (the portion of intestines starting at the bottom of your stomach). With RNY (distal for sure, not sure about proximal) the duodenum is completely out of the food path. With the DS, the duodenum is divided, leaving a portion of it in the food path. It doesn't mean you don't have to still take large amounts of suppliments with DS though. You will need to take large amounts of calcium citrate (and I hear it is even more well absorbed if you get it in liquid form with vitamin D and Magnesium). I think I'd definitely talk to a good doctor about this and let him evaluate the procedures and advise you. Good luck!
   — [Deactivated Member]

April 6, 2002
The actual weight LOSS is the main part of what triggers the bone thinning. The type of surgery has some effect, sure, but you can become osteoporitic from Weight Watchers. Have you had a bone scan? You might want to treat yourself AS IF you were dx with osteoporosis. You can use a good calcium citrate, enhance it with boron & ipriflavone, and perhaps use it with the rx, Miacalcin. Personally, I do not use Fasomax or those types because they are dangerous in a normie's tummy. If you do even SIMPLE weight bearing exercise, then you have at least done all you can do. Is your doc following your parathyroid and all that, too?
   — vitalady