Question:
Starting protein powder prior to wls good or bad ?

Concerned about hair loss I am aware of biotin caps and shampoo just curious about the shakes. Please give the pro's and con's. I have heard so much even heard about additional weight gain please some one help.    — ~EbonyBarbie~ (posted on October 28, 2003)

October 28, 2003
Weight GAIN? Ohhh, I think not. But then that might depend upon what you are calling protein & how you are making it up? The docs said the difference in working on protein loaded people and not is the difference between working with soft suede or wet tissue. A decent multi vite (doesn't have to be expensive, only "complete"), some calcium citrate, some vit C, 60g+ of GOOD protein powder made with water is an excellent way to build up for surgery. It is helpful to know where your iron is and make sure you are well into normal ranges.
   — vitalady

October 28, 2003
Before surgery, my doc had me start the protein shakes to LOSE some weight and I did. When I got tired to them and stopped, my weight loss stopped. Started them back up and started losing again. Also, they are helpful in all the things Michelle mentioned.
   — Delores S.

October 28, 2003
Actually, I have heard of weight gain as well. Basically, pre op, you would get more than enough protein from food. So protein shakesk, while they are full of protein, are also full of calories. Now, if you mean you are replacing a meal with a protein shake, that might work for you.
   — thekatinthehat

October 28, 2003
I'm pre-op, and I'm eating normal food and using protein powder and protein shakes. I've lost at least 10 pounds since seeing my surgeon on 10/6 (it's hard to find an accurate scale). I've substituted protein shakes, sometimes protein bars, and Ezekiel Bread for the chips and junk I used to snack on before. Ezekiel Bread is a sprouted, multi-grain break that has about 11 or 12 carbs per slice. It's available at Trader Joe's and Whole Foods Market in Massachusetts. I don't know if it's distributed nationwide. Anyway, I have a fairly high-carb shake for breakfast -- milk, protein powder, a third of a banana, mixed berries, some non-fat lemon yogurt. I'll modify this after surgery to better suit my needs, but right now my blood sugar is in good control and my clothers are looser. I need a snack after I get to work (my insulin dosages have been lowered, but they do still impact how much I eat), so I have a piece of fruit or some bread (regular or Ezekiel's low carb, which no nastier than any other low-carb bread, I guess) or some soy nuts. I'm also trying to pour water in, and I do get more exercise walking to the bathroom. I'm also doing water aerobics (when I don't have an ear infection) and weight training as well. And lest I sound like a total priss here, I'm trying to be very good today to work of that bag of crunchy cheetos from yesterday afternoon and the popcorn with butter last night. I am still a work in progress. Good luck!
   — Peggy H.

October 28, 2003
I am in total agreement with Michelle. It can only boost your body's ability to heal itself more quickly. We NEED that protein to regenerate! And it really isn't a lot of extra calories. The more protein you put in the less junk you'll put in, right? (at least in theory anyway!)
   — Pambylah