Expert: John Pilcher, MD - 1/4/2010

Question
I had the VSG performed almost one year ago, and met my weight-loss goal several months ago.  I am female, 5'5", and weigh approximately 137 pounds, down from 260.  At the time of surgery, I was told that I needed 80 - 100 grams of protein per day in order to maintain muscle and lose fat.  This has worked very well for me.  Now, at a little over half my current weight, is there a need for me to continue supplementing protein, or can I base protein requirements on my current weight?  Several other WLS patients have indicated to me that because of the WLS, I will ALWAYS need more protein than "normal" (non-wls) people.  Since my procedure was only restrictive, with no bypass or malabsorption elements, is this correct? Thus far, all my labs have been good, and my primary care physician says I'm "disgustingly healthy."  I appreciate any guidance you can provide.

Answer
Deanna,
This is a great question, and I need to let you know there is a lot of controversy on this subject within the bariatric community.  In my own practice, I believe that patients whose stomach is working appropriately after their bariatric surgical procedure will get plenty of protein from regular (healthy) people food if they eat enough to satisfy hunger.  I do worry that "prescribed" protein intake in the long run can lead to intake of more calories than you actually need and may predispose to weight regain in some cases.

Having said all that, I need to also clarify that I am not your doctor.  I strongly encourage you to check with your surgeon to see what he/she recommends in this area.

Best of luck!
Dr JP