Question:
I am a week pre-op and drink Lactain Calcium Fortified Fat Free Milk every day.

According to the label, each 8 oz. serving contains 8 grams of protein and 500 mg. of calcium (doesn't say what kind). Will this satisfy some of my daily requirements towards my protein and calcium intake?    — Arlene S. (posted on October 27, 2002)

October 27, 2002
It is my understanding that we don't absorb much calcium through our food (or drink) post-op. That's why most of us are taking calcium supplements. Most milk has a lot of sugar in it and it would take too much to get in the 60-80 grams of protein you'll need post-op. There are better choices.
   — LLinderman

October 27, 2002
I don't count any food sources toward protein or calcium. When they do not pass through the lower stomach, they are not "digested"--no enzytmes to break them down. Even with the most proximal RNY, the main protein & calcium "absorption stations" are also bypassed. There is some absorption later in the intestine, but how much? 10%? 30%? 50%? How much risk are you willing to take? I eat non-milk dairy, like cheese, but don't count it toward my daily total at all.
   — vitalady

October 27, 2002
No it won't. We can't absorb from food very well. Get some calcium citrate & protein powder. 90-120 grams of protein a day. Good luck.
   — LionGirl2k

October 27, 2002
My nutritionist said ABSOLUTELY. She recommended drinking a glass a day for the protein and extra calcium, although she still recommended taking at least 1500mg of calcium citrate per day in addition. I've found that I'm lactose intolerant since surgery, so Lactaid is better if I'm drinking a glass of milk. My nutritionist also recommended Skim Plus because it has more protein and calcium. I realize there is a school of thought out there that milk sugars are the enemy, but my nutritionist (long history of working with WLS patients) felt that dairy products were a good source of protein that was easier to take in than meat. She said yogurt, lowfat cheese, and skim milk were good protein sources.
   — PT LawMom