Question:
How much protein each day?

I've heard anywhere from 40 gms to 100 gms. What do you think works best or is considered adequate? I am 4 weeks post-op and sick with cold and flu like symptoms that I can't seem to get over. I am thinking it may be the lack of protein. (I am good with vitamins and minerals.)    — Jeanna M. (posted on July 25, 2002)

July 25, 2002
Jeanna, (that's my niece's name) My nutritionist recommends 65-70gm per day. Low protein can cause a lot of things to not function properly;including your immune system. That and iron was my big problem areas. Increase the proteins, and I can almost guarantee (if everything else is normal) that you will start feeling better in a few days. Good Luck!
   — Tina B.

July 25, 2002
hi. Sorry you aren't feeling well. I would definately say 60 Grams of protein is the MINIMUM! My surgeon wants me to get 80 grams a day. You may just be getting a bug right now, and rest and vitamins and protein will help along the way in a few days. ALso, the more protein, the better the weight loss. Glad you're doing good with the vitamins, it can be hard to keep track of everything sometimes! :) feel better!!
   — Lezlie Y.

July 26, 2002
The answers to this question will vary - no doubt about it. I don't know why there is such a large variation of answers to protein and the amount one should take - but there is. My surgeon told me to set the amount of protein intake at the goal weight I am hoping to attain - my starting weight was 357 and I'm 5'4 inches tall. I had my surgery on the 9th of April, 2002 and I'm down 81 lbs. as of this morning - I take in 35 - 40 gms of protein each day - he gave me that amount by setting a temporary goal weight of 200 lbs.. Ask your surgeon what he recommends, maybe?
   — Lisa J.

July 27, 2002
Thanks for your answers. My not feeling good became pnuemonia - yucco. I am four weeks post op and sick every day since. Now I can barely eat anything. When I start to eat again, it will be protein laden. Thanks again.
   — Jeanna M.