Question:
Isn't it harmful to the body to lose weight so quickly?

Hair loss?!?!!? Anything else...can you really be healthy on so few calories a day?    — Jackie S. (posted on August 12, 1999)

August 12, 1999
Hi, If you follow your doctor's instructions, take the vitamins as directed and make sure you get enough protein daily,from a protein supplement or the other sources listed by your doctor you really should not have any severe problems. A vitamin B-12 shot is also MANDATORY with RNY monthly for the rest of your life. Just remeber you must do EVERYTHING your doc says. Hope this helped. Would be glad to chat anytime you want. Cheri
   — Cheri H.

August 12, 1999
Our bodies don't need anywhere near the calorie intake we give it pre-op. If you do as your doctor instructs you to do, and you eat properly, take your vitamins and if necessary protein supplements, you'll be fine. It's only dangerous if chose not to comply, and you chose not to follow up with your doctor and labs consistently.
   — Sherrie G.

August 13, 1999
Apparently you can. I have had no problems with sleep apnea or my heart pretty much since a month post-op. My blood pressure the other day was 107/63. I feel like a teenager and have the energy of one too. So yes, apparently you can be healthy on so few calories a day.
   — dboat

August 14, 1999
My patients typically lose 30 lbs the first month then about half of their excess weight (Preop weight - Upper limit of ideal weight) over the next 6 months. On the average this is about 80 lbs. Not really excessive. Only one of my 34 patients had a metabolic electrolyte problem but she limited her diet to diet iced tea (not good).
   — Bruce B.

August 14, 1999
Hiya... losing weight after WLS is fast and you DO need to keep up at least 1,000 calories a day (or you could stop losing cause your body goes into famine mode). The regimine after surgery is to keep close to your doctor and a support group: eat high protein (and low carbs) and take vitamins and other supplements. Also drink a lot of fluids. It is very healthy as blood pressure returns to normal and you gain flexibility and energy. You do have to have regular check ups .. at least every six months (maybe more) and to track your progress. I've been losing about 5 to 7 lbs a week for a total of 135 in 8 months.. never been healthier :-)) Susan
   — Susan C.