Question:
Told by the nutritionist that protein is bad for the kidneys ?

I went to the nutritionist yesterday and asked how many grams of protein I should take and was told not to focus on that. She told me my focus should be on making the right choices and portions. When I mentioned protein shakes she told me if I did the shakes I would damage my kidneys. She did say that when I leave the hospital I will be done with the liquid stage and onto pureed. Does this make sense ? I would be real interested to hear some thoughts. Thank you in advance. Dana    — Dana R. (posted on September 24, 2002)

September 24, 2002
My own surgeon Dr. Naaman says the same thing. He just recommends Flinstone vitamins twice a day to begin with.
   — Sandra D.

September 24, 2002
Hi protein can damage your kindeys. That is why you have to drink high amounts of water. The water keeps this from happening. Personally, I drink two protien drinks a day and I make sure I get at least 64 oz of water. You should follow the plan your surgeon lays out for you.
   — Cheryl S.

September 24, 2002
High protein like Atkins is espically a hazard to diabetics. Right after surgery HTDRATION is much more important than protein. After a month or two you should get in the 60 grams of protein from regular food. My surgeon doesnt push protein drinks either. Eat PROTEIN first at all meals and you will do fine.
   — bob-haller

September 24, 2002
Normal people, i.e. people with normal-size stomachs, typically take in 100g of protein a day. I believe that most of the reports of kidney damage are on people who supplement above this point e.g. bodybuilders, football players, etc. For those WLSers who do not protein supplement, we're talking about taking in 50-60 grams of protein a day, which is way under the 100g stated above...JR (open RNY, 07/17, -84#)
   — John Rushton