Question:
I was wondering if it was okay to use Soy protein supplements?

I am over 2 1/2 years post op LAP RNY. I kind of got off the wagon and stopped supplementing protein, hence starting losing my hair again (badly) I am getting back on and would like some advice on supplements. Prior to all of this I would only use Whey Protein supps. Now I find myself purchasing the pre-made supplements (EAS Advant Edge) shakes as well as there bars. I also enjoy the Atkins protein bars that are also made with soy protein. Do RNY's have trouble absorbing soy, or do I just have my facts all messed up. I guess another reason why I'm asking is because, I have been back on the wagon for about a month now and have also started taking 5mg's of Biotin Forte and my hair is just falling out at the speed of light. Any help would be greatly appreciated. P.S. I will be seeing my surgeon in 2 1/2 weeks. Thank you!    — Kristina P. (posted on September 3, 2003)

September 3, 2003
Soy is not as absorbable because it is not a complete protein. Therefore not the best post op choice. It is my understanding that the very best protein for us is whey with whey peptides. I know that there are a few shakes on the market that have this and they are very high quality and 100% absorbable. I drink Real Meals but there are others too. If you go to www.protein-solution.com you can see the names and comparisons. Good luck and thanks for the encouragemant to stay on course! Lap RNY 1/15/03 277/167/147
   — Carol S.

September 3, 2003
I use a fair bit of soy protein in supplements and other soy products (edamame, which is great in salads). I don't use ONLY soy products and hedge my protein intake a bit, so I don't see it as a problem. If you are distal, your absorption will be a bit more compromised (a good thing--it will help you lose more weight!), but my dr swears that proximals don't have malabsorption. I don't QUITE believe him, which is why I hedge a bit. <p>Do be aware that for some, soy protein can cause water retention. I seemed to have that for a while and then my body seemed to get more efficient at processing the stuff and I didn't have problems with that anymore. Hope this helps!
   — ctyst

September 3, 2003
If you have thyroid problems it's best NOT to use soy because it will interfere with the thyroid absorption.
   — Betty Todd

September 3, 2003
Your hair is probably falling out due to malnutrition. Whey isolate is the #1 per my nutritionist. You can get whey protein in Detour bars. I get mine from Pro Performance unflavored protein powder from GNC. Although many say Biotin is for hair and nails, my dermatologist said it only helps nails :(
   — bethybb

September 3, 2003
Have you been having regular labwork done since your RNY? If not, this is a good time to be sure you do get it done, at least every six months (more often for now, in your case, since you've got the hair loss going on). You should get copies of your labwork and compare them with previous reports. In your case, you might've been able to see if your protein levels were falling all along, even as they remained in a "normal" range (this is why I recommend getting copies of your own reports; docs will often only glance at the latest report to see if the lab has highlighted a reading that's out of the normal range, whereas what you should do is compare your previous reports to see if your levels are falling off, and nip the problem in the bud *before* they flat-out fall out of the normal range). Soy may not be as good as whey protein, but you may not even be using enough whey protein when you supplement (and your hair loss might also be indicative of some other problem) -- that's why tracking closely with labwork is important. Good luck!
   — Suzy C.

September 8, 2003
I have heard on this Q & A board that Whey is better for us post-op, as it digests better than Soy. Hope this helps! Becky M.
   — bufordslipstick