Question:
Does consuming 65 grams of protein daily greatly reduce your risk of hair loss

I read that after WLS you should consume 65 grams of protein per day. Does that greatly reduce your risk of hair loss and other health complications as well> Thanks! Tonya    — ellton (posted on February 23, 2001)

February 23, 2001
Yes it does. It is important for your muscles as well to have the protein. I get some from food and I drink Problend 55 each day.
   — Nancy C.

February 23, 2001
I've heard that protein helps, but I get plenty of protein, and from my experience (as well as feedback from my dr) is that hairloss is a natural post surgery experience (after any major surgery). Mine started pretty early - about 2 months, and I'm now 4 months post op and it has pretty much returned to normal. I will say that as soon as I noticed an increase in hairloss, that I did start using Nioxin shampoo/conditioner, so that may have played a factor.
   — tlg6056

February 23, 2001
I'm one month post-op and no hair loss (maybe too early). Anyway, the nutritionist at Mt. Sinai says 50 grams of protein a day and not over 60.
   — Jacki Z.

February 23, 2001
You should follow up with your doctor and/or nutritionist concerning this. Most of the answers you have received here are NOT what I learned today when I met with my nutritionist (which is a requirement from my surgeon). Your intake of protein greatly depends upon your body weight and height. This is a very individual thing because everybody's body is different. For instance, my intake of protein for the first three weeks after surgery should be 95, the next 5 weeks after that it should be 86 and then after that it should remain at 73 grams per day. One of my closest friends just died Friday from lack of protein and malnutrition so I would strongly suggest that you seek guidance from a reputable doctor and/or nutritionist. What is safe for one is not necessarily safe for another! Best of luck to you.
   — Sharon R.

February 24, 2001
Yes and Yes -- protein can help reduce hair loss and is essential for your health. During rapid weight loss, we lose muscle as well as fat -- protein can help here. Protein helps with energy and so many things that you need to just remember to make it a priority in your diet -- especially during the early postop period. As far as hair loss, there are so many different opinions on this -- but I do know that getting plenty of protein does not assure that you won't lose some hair. Our health is of supreme importance, so follow your doc's directions. Best wishes!
   — Cindy H.