Can Weight Be Gained After Removing Small Intestine?

Posted on Thu, 24 Dec 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 24 Dec 2015 Answered on

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello Doctor,
I am highly underweight. The reason most probably being that during my childhood (at age of around 5 years) I went through a surgery where my small intestine was removed ( as it got infected) . Doctors told that time that due to absence of small intestine I won't gain weight ever.
I am now 25 years old , height 5feet 10 inches and weigh 60kg.
Can you suggest me what actions I need to take to gain weight. Can you kindly suggest me some weight gainers / diet plans.

Answered by Dr. Amit Jain (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Take high caloric and high protein diet

Detailed Answer:
Hello! Thanks for putting your query in HCM. I am a Gastroenterologist.

I can understand your concerns

I assume that your bowel movements are normal as you havent mentioned about that.

You should take high caloric and high protein diet.

Calorie intake should be 35-40 kcal/Kg/ day
Protein Intake should be 1.6gm/ kg/ day

You can consult with dietician for diet chart by telling him your requirements.

There is one protein supplement which I found very useful in my patients in increasing weight is Vengain (by Venkys company). Take 3 tsf with milk thrice a day.
I hope I have answered your query and this will help you . Wish you a good health

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Amit Jain (19 minutes later)

Thanks Dr. XXXXXXX

The surgery I went through during childhood is Bariatric surgery
And I Hope this supplement Vengain won't have any side effects ?

Regards,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Amit Jain (50 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No side effects

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back. I dont think so it will cause any harm since it is high protein powder only. Wish you a good health

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina