Question:
Are weight lifting supplements ok?

I am currently awaiting my surgery date and am trying to find information concerning supplements. I am concerned that I will begin to lose muscle mass along with the fat and am wondering if weight lifting supplements (not illegel steroid type) are OK to use post-op. Any help would be greatly appreciated!    — Jim S. (posted on October 22, 2003)

October 22, 2003
Generally speaking, no. But, each supplement is individual. The supplements your talking about generally are way to high in either calories, carbs or fat. However, feel free to look at labels and judge for yourself. I think it is unlikely that you will loose muscle mass, since the body uses fat first to burn as fuel.
   — LMCLILLY

October 22, 2003
Your protein drinks will maintain your muscle mass just fine.
   — mrsmyranow

October 22, 2003
Which ones? You mean the protein drinks? The kind you can mix with water? Or are you speaking of MRP's? Yes, men lose muscle so fast it makes your head spin. You're wise to be thinking ahead. In fact, locally, we protein load everyone, but most particularly the men. My husband couldn't lift a 40# sack of dog food by the time he was cleared to do it, know what I mean? That was in the olden days of lousy proteins & not enough of it. Did you have any brand names in mind?
   — vitalady

October 23, 2003
Many of the body builder supplements are loaded with carbs.
   — M B.

October 25, 2003
Usually the weightlifting protein type drinks are loaded with carbs too. I have 1 brother who does serious lifting and looks like Arnold Schwarzennegger. He is trying to gain huge amts of muscle mass & keep his energy up from the heavy lifting. I'd say read the labels closely. You need to balance calories/carb amts with the need for protein. You don't want your needed protein drink to keep you from losing all you want to, or causing dumping. Good luck!! karen
   — Karen M.