Question:
Does you body absorb

I had an open ryn and was wondering if your body absorbes the protein you eat?    — [Anonymous] (posted on August 2, 2000)

August 2, 2000
I am pretty sure our bodies absorb protein. I do think we need to make sure we get enough protein,,,cheese yogert milk etc, Good Luck GOD BLESS
   — Shirley C.

August 2, 2000
Not much of it. Different percentages per individual, but the ability to digest has been changed by the RNY procedure. Normally, food is digested in the lower stomach, where it passes through various enzymes & such to be broken down, ready for absorption in the first 12-18" of intestine. Since all RNY are missing the function of the lower stomach and usually AT LEAST that much intestine, there will be some loss of certain elements in food. The elements that need to be supplemented are listed on the ASBS web site and can also be found in a physiology book. Supplements are the best way to get broken down forms of these elements WITHOUT fat, carbs, sugar, calories in the most readily available forms. You can stuff your pouch with food, but you won't get as much as absorption as you will with a good protein supplement. It's best to avoid milk as the malabsorption will take most of the protein and calcium out, but leave ALL the sugar in. Many of us become lactose intolerant anyway, so it's not a major loss. I realize that you will hear several different views. I'm pretty biased, since we work with so many of us. Were I to start from scratch again, I would NOT bet my weight loss or future health on protein FOODS. AS it is, I don't count a single gram of food I take in. I ONLY count protein supplement as protein.
   — vitalady