Question:
CONFUZZLED! SO MANY VITAMINS!

I go in for an open RNY April 18th. What vitamins do I need post op?? For protien, calcium, zinc, and EVERYTHING else I need. (Including vitamins to keep my hair from falling out) How many grams do I need of each? What way are they most likely to absorb the best?? (Pills, Liquid, Drinks, Bars, etc...) Sorry, I must sound like a real dope but I dont know much about the vitamins yet!    — Nicole0105 (posted on April 8, 2002)

April 8, 2002
Hi Nicole! Don't worry - you'll figure it all out. All surgeons are different so you'll want to ask him or the nutritionist while you're in the hospital to confirm all this info for you. Our surgeons have everyone take two children's chewable vitamins every day, like Flintstones (although most people think the Wal Mart brand of children's chewables taste better). As far as vitamins that will help keep your hair from falling out - there are none. Hair loss following WLS is an unexplained phenomenon. We initially thought it was from lack of protein, lack of nutrition, anesthesia, trauma from surgery or a combination of all of it. Who knows? But, nothing will prevent hair loss. Luckily most people only experience mild or moderate hair loss. What helps your hair grow back is PROTEIN, biotin and zinc. I supplement 60 grams of protein every day in the form of a drink/shake. I'm not familiar with the liquid though I hear good things about it. Bars are better than eating a regular candy bar but you won't absorb all the protein. You can purchase zinc and biotin at GNC or even Wal-Mart and the pharmacist or GNC employee should be able to advise you on the dose. Our surgeon has you wait 2 months before starting calcium. You'll want to be sure to take calcium carbonate and calcium citrate in order to have healthy blood AND bones. Again, the GNC folks or one of the wonderful experts online here can give you dosages. Also check with your surgeon about B Complex and B 12. Best of luck to you - you're going to do just fine!
   — ronascott