Question:
Do our protein requirements change after we've reached our goal weight?

Ive heard that as postops we are required a daily intake of 60 grams of protein. To reach this Ive started supplementing my diet with a protein shake in the mornings (35g) and then get the remainder straight from food. My question is whether this protein requirement drops once we move into the maintenance stage of life. 60 grams seems like a lot to get in on a daily basis. Im pretty sure I wasnt getting that BEFORE surgery. I would like to think that once Ive reached my goal weight I can relax my worries about protein a little. Observing other peoples eating habits I know Im not the only one who doesnt get that amount of protein in. I have family members who rarely eat meat and seem to do fine by eating beans and dairy products on occasion. Has anyone heard anything regarding this?    — Rita O. (posted on March 26, 2000)

March 25, 2000
Rita, Although I am not an expert:) I was told that we need to keep the protein up while we are losing weight rapidly. This is so we don't lose muscle mass as well as fat. After our weight loss slows down, then our protein needs can be reevaluated. I can't remember what they told me for the definition of "slows down", but maybe some of you who are in the know about this can define that! Good Luck!
   — M B.

March 26, 2000
I can't really answer your question, but be sure that you consult with your doctor/nutritionist before decreasing your protein. Everything I have read about WLS surgery emphasizes heavily on getting enough protein and what will happen if you don't. I agree that not everyone who's of normal weight gets that much in their diet, but your diet will change drastically and protein helps keep you healthy. It will also help prevent hair loss which can happen months after the surgery. Good luck!!
   — Paula G.

March 27, 2000
The information booklet my doctor gave me says this about protein requirements: "Your body needs additional protein during the rapid weight loss phase -- until your weight loss slows to 2 pounds per month or less. Eating enough protein will help you to maintain your muscle tissues, keep your immune function working properly, and help your body make healthy new cells. Once your weight loss has slowed to two pounds a month, and you have come within range of your goal weight, the nutritionist will reassess your protein needs." My nutritionist calculated my protein needs based on my height and weight at the time of surgery, and said I needed 71g of protein per day. She didn't specify how much I will need after I get to my goal. Hope this helps.
   — Lynn K.