Has anyone been hospitalized for starvation?

[CocoNina 210]

I'm curious. I seen posts about being hospitalized for dehydration but what about being too low on calories or not eating enough?

Height: 5'0"

Weight for WLS consultation: 216 lbs.

Surgery date: 2/13/17

Goal: -71 lbs for healthy BMI (about 145 lbs).

Current weight: 174.2 lbs

My profile picture is not me. It's my "FITspiration" body.

[OutsideMatchInside 10,166]

I have only seen malnutrition posted about in extreme complication cases and they are usually really far out from surgery. As long as you are hydrated humans can live without food for a long time, weeks.

[chuswysly 122]

I've only been on this forum since August 2016 but haven't seen anything regarding malnutrition. Because most of us have a significant amount of weight to lose (50 pounds and more) it doesn't take many calories to sustain us as long as we're getting our Water and Protein.< br>
You seem to be very concerned about the possibility of becoming malnourished. What are you eating each day? Did your doctor or nutritionist give you any special guidelines? How are you feeling overall? Did you have your surgery in the states or out of the country? Have you asked your doctor about malnutrition?

I had my surgery in Mexico with a wonderful doctor (and staff) in an amazing hospital. The sent me home with all my paperwork, test results, a DVD of my actual surgery, EKG results, barium results.....basically everything. I was able to give all the information to my primary care physician who continues to prescribe all followup testing as recommended after sleeve surgery. It's important you have confidence in your doctor and nutritionist. Are you feeling pretty secure in that area?

From what I've read on this forum and in the books I've purchased it seems the weight loss is more substantial the first 6 +- months after surgery but that is slows down. If your doctor is happy with your results you should be fine unless there's a reason to think differently.

[Dashofpixiedust8 1,469]

I was unable to eat or drink anything for a while due to complications. So in a way I was, but it's only because I had complications. I had a picc line put in and I had to give myself TPN infusions every night that gave me nutrients and fluids so my body got what it needed. I don't think people have trouble with malnutrition UNLESS they have complications. Your body can survive on 500 calories a day.

[Berry78 4,259]

I did see a youtube video of a DS patient (several years post op) that was hospitalized with malnutrition. I assume she hadn't kept up with her bloodwork and/or supplements.

The malabsorption component of bypasses and DSs can pose significant risks long term. Lifetime follow-up is paramount!

[CocoNina 210]

You seem to be very concerned about the possibility of becoming malnourished. What are you eating each day? Did your doctor or nutritionist give you any special guidelines? How are you feeling overall? Did you have your surgery in the states or out of the country? Have you asked your doctor about malnutrition?

I asked because yesterday when I posted this I felt weird. Like I could never get enough water/liquids in because I was still thirsty & still felt hungry even after eating my sandwich meat & cheese. I had a headache yesterday. That's never happened to me these entire 7-weeks post op. I didn't know if I was starving myself or what. I spoke to my nurse this morning & put the pieces together. My job is very physical & I had a very physically exhausting day the day before. It was basically a workout at work. My legs & arms were sore. She said when you workout your body needs more protein/calories & explained in good detail what could be happening with me. It made sense.

Even though I asked about malnutrition, I'm doing everything good. I never cheated (even though I respond to posts about when I can eat certain "bad" foods & I made a post asking about Halo Top Ice Cream). I'm strict on myself & it's working. I lost 47 lbs since my surgery 2/13/17. I'm happy I made the decision to choose WLS & impressed with myself for having self-control. I told myself if I can get through the 2-weeks pre op liquid only, I can get through this new lifestyle. So, yes I'm following the guidelines & talk to my nutritionist & nurse when I feel like something is usual.


Height: 5'0"
Weight for WLS consultation: 216 lbs.
Surgery date: 2/13/17
Goal: -71 lbs for healthy BMI (about 145 lbs).
Current weight: 174.2 lbs
My profile picture is not me. It's my "FITspiration" body.

[chuswysly 122]

It sounds like your doing everything right and seeing amazing results!!! Congratulations! I haven't lost weight very quickly but it seems to be steady and on the down hill We are all so different and our nutritional needs are different so good for you taking the initiative to talk to your nurse.

You are off to a terrific start on your journey to your brand new self!! Hope you're feeling very, very proud of yourself!!

[CocoNina 210]

It sounds like your doing everything right and seeing amazing results!!! Congratulations! I haven't lost weight very quickly but it seems to be steady and on the down hill We are all so different and our nutritional needs are different so good for you taking the initiative to talk to your nurse.
You are off to a terrific start on your journey to your brand new self!! Hope you're feeling very, very proud of yourself!!

Thank you.


Height: 5'0"
Weight for WLS consultation: 216 lbs.
Surgery date: 2/13/17
Goal: -71 lbs for healthy BMI (about 145 lbs).
Current weight: 174.2 lbs
My profile picture is not me. It's my "FITspiration" body.