WLS Veteran's Forum

I was admitted to the ER today for Gastritis! Honestly, when I went in, I was just feeling shortness of breath. Afterwards, they ran some tests and made me take a liquid. After the liquid, I felt a hardness in my chest and definitely feel worse than when I went in there. They said I have to change my diet... to not eat any spicy foods, a lot of Water (the only thing I drink) and you know the rest. Just basic healthy eating. I presume I got this from adding a lot of spice to my food but also these pills I took. They told me not to take them anymore. Does anyone have experience with Gastritis??? If so, how long did it last? Any tips?

Does this happen to you? I had my RNY in March of 2014 and some days the struggle to keep my blood sugar steady is a challenge. Sometimes it is because I eat too many carbs in a meal, but sometimes I can have a balanced Breakfast and I still get shaky after an hour or two. I'm getting much better about managing it. Here is the thing I can not figure out. I have a diagnosis of ADD. I take Adderall (which is a stimulant) but the side effects in combination with my dietary needs can be hard to manage so I do take days off. But the strangest side effect of all is that when I'm on it my blood sugar stays very steady. Initially I thought it was because I'm eating a lot less …

I am scared for some of these newbies and the lurkers who are reading. This fear is probably a huge part of why I don't just log off permanently. Is it just me or does the trend seem to be "I'll eat what I want when I want no matter what my surgeon says" with other people actually coddling/recommending/applauding/defending that viewpoint? When I joined this site, I had my @ss handed to me several times (THANK GOD!!) because I wondered why (out loud) my diet was so restrictive. I wanted permission to break some rules because it was damn hard to follow them. I never did test those waters (with the exception of a Hershey's Kiss one week post op -- it tasted like…

Has anyone gone through an identity crisis after WLS? I feel overall happier than before, but I don't know if its culmination of my age (36) and the weight loss, but I feel like I'm going through a bit of an identity or mid life crisis? I'm glad my husband is giving me a little leeway, and we are having fun "discovering" things together.. but then I feel a little depressed lately too.. my whole identity is changing.. People call me beautiful, gorgeous, a MILF.. and I'm just not used to these things.. they seem so foreign. When I was over 250-300 pounds, people mostly ignored me.. no one looked in my eyes.. people were barely friendly.. my husband agrees that my personal…

Hello Vet's. I'm reflecting on my Birthday. I'm curious of where you are at in life now. How often do you think about being a surgery Patient? I identify as a health nut/gym rat. This has become my passion. Just a normal way of life. I still check in on Bariatric pal. But I spend the majority of my time in Body Space. I'm not motivated by weight loss anymore. I've moved on to other fitness and nutrition goals. I've lost friends and a close family member due to my weight loss. I have gained new friends. They have the same interest in health. I feel I'm continuing to be my best self. I don't want to settle in feeling my old fart age. I don't feel my age today. …

Do you still take Vitamins? If so, what kind? I am looking for one vitamins that has everything I need included. Thank you. Angie

I just read a thread over on the 'POST surgery' forum about POP. a newbie post related to drinking soda after surgery, a vet answered them and got herself torn sideways from the OP. I feel bad because this person was QUITE obviously trying to only help, and give adequate information. For example, the OP carried on about their 'pouch' and stretching it. The vet simply responded that a sleeve is not the same as a RNY pouch and that it really can't be stretched according to anatomical make up. Well, so much for trying to help! When I was a NOOB i was so happy to get good advice from the vets. in fact, that is how I learned the majority of the information that I needed pr…

Hi there other vets. Those in maintenance especially. This is so different than the weight loss stage, isn't it? So..I went away over the weekend with some of my girlfriends and somewhere around dinner on Saturday, I couldn't kid myself anymore that I was being mindful of what I was consuming. Actually, I was being very mindful...and very aware that I was eating way too much, and drinking too much, and eating the wrong things. Oh, I tried. I had fruit instead of chocolate, I didn't eat everything on my plate, I drank wine instead of cocktails. But still...I gained 2 1/2 lbs. and honestly expected it might be more than that. So today is Monday, the start of a new …

This June will make 2 years since I've gotten sleeved I've made a lot of progress and there's more to go from here. I was very strict with my eating habits but unfortunately deterred off that track, but now I'm coming back harder than ever. I was wondering though - has anyone noticed any health issues arising after not following the rules? I noticed I've been having flare ups when I incorporate foods that I once could tolerate. Now whenever I add in something sugary, or something like potatoes, pepper, etc ... my body can't handle it and I break out in a severe way. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Hi Vets- well, to make a long story very short, at 24 months post op i was within about 10 lbs of goal and then had tragic loss. Gained 20 lbs. now have 30 total to lose, but really would be happy to just get these 20 off. Made it to the Y yesterday to make appt with trainer to get some sort of regimen for exercise. Called a new bariatric clinic for appt with Doc and Nut. My question for those who gained several years out and then lost it- HOW did you re-lose? did you start over (as the 5 day pouch reset suggests) with Day 1 post op type eating? Did you go back to reincorporating shakes? Was it portion measurement, carb restriction?????? Just curious mostly. I have …

Hello Vets, I've been having increased burping and I'm almost 5Yrs post op. Its been fairly smooth sailing so far in terms of complications (only limited ones not worth mentioning). Now I'm burping uncontrollably. I do not have any any heartburn "typical" symptoms. I'm taking Pantoprazole along with just starting on Carafate. I did not have any GERD prior to surgery however Dr. Aceves told me that I had a hiatal hernia that he fixed during sleeve surgery even though I had no idea I had it. I'm told I may possibly need a revision sleeve to bypass which I do NOT want to do but the new surgeon doctor (I was operated on by Dr. Aceves so I can't see him about this unfor…

3 years ago I had Gastric Sleeve Surgery on the same day as my Husband and we have done so well. A few ups and downs but still within our goal weights. I started at about 254 and am now at 132.5. Then in August this year Plastic Surgery to remove all of the excess skin. I was at about 143 before the surgery so I'm really happy with where I am. I had a Circumference Tummy Tuck with muscle tightening, Bra Lift ( Back) then 2 weeks latter I had my Arm Lift, Breast reduction and Lift ( my own tissue used for the rebuild). So all great only very minor infection in one of my arms that once treated was fine. Once again like my sleeve I absolutely love the work that was done it h…

Firstly...I'm nearly four years post banded. Just a couple of weeks till my anniversary. I've been at goal for around three years give or take so I absolutely consider myself a vet though not necessarily one of long term duration. So...this week has been both a bit of a challenge and also a great joy. The joy part is that I'm with my friends, family, and loved ones and I'm doing a spectacular stay-cation home in NYC. A little background is that my boyfriend owns a food tour company and is obviously very knowledgeable about food and is a huge foodie as part of his job and interests. And that is often the challenge...especially this week. We decided to do a global …

I haven't been on here much at all the last 4 or 5 months. No need to beat a dead horse but as so many are saying, some of the posts just got old. I am not sure if it is the same when I started this journey almost 2 years ago or not. I read every word a vet offered and was so grateful for all of them. I am 8 weeks post lower body lift / arm lift and struggling a bit with my food addiction and just this morning I thought "Hey I am 18 months post-op RNY. I qualify for Vet forum posting!" So anyway just thought I would pop in and say hello. My struggle is either I will binge on bad foods or get busy and not eat enough. I am still so very thankful for the miracle of WLS…

I just got out of the hospital recovering from a severe stomach ulcer caused by my gastric bypass surgery. this has happened to me several times and I have almost died each time. I was wondering if anyone else has had this complication. my wife had gastric bypass too and has had no problems. the docs said since I don't have good blood flow I am able to get this ulcer. I also am not supposed to take any aleve, iv profin or much of any pain meds but Tylenol. I also have arthritis and was taking Celebrex but that aggravated the ulcer. I wondered what other people do if they have this problem or am I like usual just have weird problems. my weight is stable and surge…

I have posted details about my New Year's challenge sign up. The thread is over in the "regain and back on track" forum. Head over and take a look if you're interested. I"m still struggling along but feeling better every day and pushing myself harder all the time. I"ll get back where I was!

Had a lost moment where 6 pies got a little too much tasting . Went and worked out today... determined to not let a small stumble be a large fall.... into a vat of pumpkin and whipped cream. Yikes

http://www.bariatriceating.com/2015/07/the-truth-about-bariatric-surgery/ Anyone want to share your take on this article? Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G890A using the BariatricPal App

Hi All. I'm on Cymbalta and my depression issues are escalating. I'm almost two years out. Anyone have to adjust meds due to absorption issues? I'd appreciate any insight. Thanks.

So much going on, didn't know where to jump in but I remember I used to hang out in the Vet's forums so....howdy! How ya doin'?

Perhaps we could learn a quirky thing we don't know about each other? Me: I was once in a famous country singers fan club and won a chance to sit down and chat with her!

So, was having a grand old time with the new bf going out to eat, and all that fun stuff with food. Then I noticed last week in particular that my clothes are getting tight...and that won't do at all. I decide to take myself in hand and get back to where I needed to be. Did just that....and gained even more weight. What the hell??? Even friends and co-workers are noticing the gain. They say I look good now...not so drawn. But all I know is that some of my favorite clothing is too tight and I refuse to go back there. A fill I think. Maybe I need another fill. But no...I know that's not it. I'm not walking around hungry all the time. So what's up? Steroids.…

Tummy tuck and breast lift today. Wish me luck! [emoji2]

There are people who like to spend time on the computer live chatting, but it's not everyone's cup of tea. I begged Alex to put the chat button where people could see it and maybe we could get chat going again. We used to have a green button down on the right corner where you could see if people were in chat, sort of what they have on facebook or facebook messenger. The server is different now, which I assume is the reason the chat is completely different. You never know if anyone is in there. i thought we could pick a day . I'd go with Monday. People are always trying to get back on track after the weekend. We have to remember time changes. I can usually look earl…

I am over three years out, above my goal by about 5 pounds and happy. I could (fairly) easily get down to my goal by tracking, measuring and weighing my intake, or I can eat sensibly, enjoy a daily treat and maintain effortlessly. I choose the latter for now because I have a LOT of other stuff going on in my life. The minute my size 8 AEO jeans start getting too tight, I'll go back to option one. My restriction is super great. I can rarely get in more than 2/3 cup in volume or 3ish oz of firm protein'. My oldest went off to college (go Hoos!), my youngest is a junior in high school and is busy with show choir, volleyball, martial arts, a part time job and with a new…

A week from now i'll see my new surgeon and get restarted on my journey. I am excited to see what he has to say and see the nut as well, and hopefully i'll be back on track in no time. also ordered Slim in 6 today from Beachbody because i haven't exercised in quite some time and i can do this at home. Got all my Soups etc ordered from bariatriceating.com, unjury proteink, and i'm READY to re-tackle this demon! wish me some luck!!!

I tried posting this in the powder room but it wouldn't let me. Lol My 20th high school reunion is in a couple weeks. Which shoes do you think look best with this dress? I'm leaning towards the shoes in the top left hand corner as they are flats. Opinions welcomed. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Had my sleeve done in August 2013. I reached my goal weight and stayed there thanks to regular daily exercise including running 25 miles a week, yoga and pilates. Last summer, I started having serious foot pain. By October 2015, doing any kind of exercise became almost impossible because of an entrapped nerve in my foot. I finally had surgery to release the nerve in April. I was unable to walk for almost a month and then had limited mobility until June. I am a homebrewer and a big craft beer fan. I was able to incorporate moderate beer consumption into my diet when I was very active. When I became very inactive all of a sudden, I didn't cut out the beer, in fa…

Hi all, I have not been here in a while but have experienced some serious loss since I was here. I had sleeve about 26 months ago and did great, got my BMI down to about 28 and was feeling great. Left a career path I was not happy with. Entered a new professional path and graduate school. Was on track. Gained a little bit from overall stress of the change, but still had control. Then I lost my dad. He did after only a week of cancer diagnosis, and I started unraveling. Not making excuses, but I have gained about 20 lbs from my lowest. I have totally lost track. I found myself eating anything i wanted (even though i was really eating most foods without problems) and all …

I had a crazy experience with the billing of my annual nutritional panel. I moved states so I have my PCP running all my labwork for me annually. She was provided with the list of testing required. The good news, all my labs came back great with the exception of my BUN levels. They are slightly off and I have stage 3 kidney disease although it has been in remission. Anyway, nothing to really worry about at this time. So yesterday I get my explanation of benefits in which all the labs were done. To my horror, CIGNA tells me that I am not covered for that bloodwork! And the bill for it is going to be near $3000.00! First my husband nearly came unglued which then stress…

I spent five days in Vegas (business conference) and am far too cheap to spend money on a buffet when I could only eat a cup or so at a time. I bought a egg, cheese, bacon on an English muffin in the morning, ate half in the am, the other half as a late lunch. I had a few bites of pizza toppings or beef Jerky for dinner and a Protein bar in between "meals" as a snack. A lot of walking was involved and I came home 4 pounds lighter and the tightest restriction I've had in a long while. Since coming home, I've avoided carbs like the devil, and have tried to only eat between the hours of 1p - 8p. I can now only hold 2-3 oz of protein and my hunger is absolutely gone. …

Any of y'all upgrade to the VIP membership ? Is it worth it? What do you like about it? I've been thinking about it, wanted some input. Thanks Sent from my iPad using the BariatricPal App

Safe in here? It sure as HE!! isn't "safe" out there for vets anymore. YEESH!!! Anyone else feeling that?

Oh my goodness it's been awhile since I've been here! I only see a few names I recognize! I had my sleeve on 06/12/12. I lost 102 lbs. unfortunately I have gained 35lbs within the last two years. About a month ago, I started weighing and logging my food on mfp again. I started gaining when I stopped logging my food and making myself accountable. Since I started logging again I've lost 14lbs. So now I'm 21lbs away from my lowest weight and 27 away from my original goal weight. I'm going to do this. The good thing about my sleeve is even though I fell off the wagon, it's still here to help me. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Sorry, but I'm feeling a bit jaded from lots of advice and pictures of " honeymooners" just 3 months out and posting pics and advice. Could just be me getting weary of newbies dispensing wisdom... Want to read more of "years out " issues. Lots of people leave and I am really hoping it is not regain... Just complacency... Look forward to those who hang in here through all of life's up and downs.... You know ...REAL LIFE! Looking for those veteran posts here that help me through tough (and good) times.

So, anyone have an odd or surprising milestone they hit AFTER they became "a vet"? Mine is this: I went to the doc yesterday (for an eye infection), and I did not feel my gut clench when the nurse led me to the scale, I weighed in and did not make a comment about 'just having eaten/drank' to account for the weight, AND then realized that for the first time in my entire adult life, I did not consciously make sure to remember to pee before I went in to weigh! Yay!!! The number just is not so important now, and I felt the most lovely realization that I'm finally taking it for granted that my weight/number does not define me. Call me a Happy Camper. Now, what yours?

We have us a room.

250 lbs. vs. 125 lbs.

Threads disappearing, posts disappearing in bulk, posts reappearing but mangled... What in the world? Hello vets!! Looks like we have us a protected forum! Let's chat!! OH! And thanks, @@Alex Brecher !

I cannot contain my smile. I had a consultation yesterday with my 1st choice plastic surgeon here in Delafield Wi. She had great reviews, is board certified, has a great team including her assistant and most of all she is also a woman and totally gets it. Even my husband who is very over protective, loves her. Every plastic surgeon I called would set up 1 appointment for each possible surgery charging a fee each time. I thought that was crazy given I wanted larger game plan for myself but I set up appointments anyway. I found her last and called her assistant who promptly told me that when they are speaking with someone who has multiple concerns they will book more tim…

That is, today I am not obese. At least according to the BMI charts. Two years post LapBand. My ultimate goal is to achieve a normal BMI. I don't know if I'll ever get there, but I'll just keep doing what I'm doing. I think the last time I was at this weight was 1992. JustWatchMe

Good Morning Veterans! I am in the process of researching the use of essential oils in my daily routine. Honestly this is because I am suffering severe menopausal symptoms. I must get 50 hot flashes per day where I feel my head is simply going to combust, then of course comes the soaking of my clothing, the racing heart in my ears, and yes all the bs emotions that come with it. That does not include the night sweats in which I am soaked from head to toe. I have the air in our house at 66 and a fan blowing on me while sleeping and another fan next to where I sit in the living room. When I am not flashing I am frozen to the core given I have lost all of my fat which I am …

I'm 2.5 years out and have been at or near goal since 9 months out. Overall, everything has been great! However, I've noticed that 2 people (1 relative and 1 friend) have become very distant and stand-offish along the way. In both cases I can't recall any incident that could have caused this, which is why I'm confused. They are both over weight, although not excessively. Only one of the two knows about my WLS. I'm tempted to confront them, but for now have just ignored it. Any theories or recommendations?

Recently, @@Kindle brought up a subject that I think deserves its own thread in the Vets Forum. A lot of us who've done pretty well in terms of losing our excess weight and learning how to maintain our weight will soon be heading into Year Three post-op or are already there. Some of us are wondering what new challenges we're likely to encounter in the coming twelve months. There's seems to be some common (if not universal) agreement that Year Three is the year that maintaining your weight can get harder and that regain starts to occur. How has your weight maintenance gone during Year Three? If you've regained, what behaviors or other phenomena do you thin…

I'm not sure I consider myself a vet, but just wanted to put out there I had my first extremely stressful 3 months since wls. Definitely saw the emotional eating reappear but luckily not as bad as before. I didn't track food, exercised less, and got lazy with preparing meals. I'm lucky that I only gained around 10lbs. Getting back on track! My naturally "skinny" friends have been so supportive as apparently others experience this too during stressful times. This is definitely only a tool. I have to stay on top of this!

Last night we went out to Celebrate my birthday at the melting pot. I have found that this can be a really great meal for me with the meat and cheese course. I wanted to enjoy a nice glass of wine (yes I know I am not supposed to eat and drink at the same time). I simply wanted to sip that crisp cold Pinot Grigio and enjoy a bit of cheese fondue. We went with the spinach artichoke cheese fondue. It it delicious. First, I ordered a 5oz (small) glass of wine. It was delicious! I think I maybe sipped half while enjoying the cheese and seriously was feeling no pain. I was just at that threshold were you go from feeling no pain to this is too much! Lol. I read all the stor…

Okay so in the vein of getting a veterans forum active again with veteran issues.... Talk to me about 5/2 people! I've read the past threads back before I really needed the info and have read a lot on the interwebs.... But anyone actively doing it? At 2.5 years out I'm no longer at my bottom weight... I'm still below goal but I miss being where I was and would like to drop the regain. Part of me knows it's vanity pounds and says don't even bother... I still run 30 miles a week finished my second marathon and fit in my size 4's but another part of me just prefers where I was before. So... Any advice on 5/2 or advice on whether those vanity pounds are even worth it…

I'm wondering what everyone thought was the hardest thing for them after their surgery. I haven't had mine yet but I expect not drinking while eating is going to be the hardest for me. I hate eating without first taking a sip of water before my meal. I don't like eating without refreshing my mouth first.

I am excited to say that I am finally at a place where I am considering plastic surgery. I know that I want to have it done here, near my home. I have found 3 board certified plastic surgeons with excellent patient reviews and have scheduled consultations with them. I am very excited about one of them and hope that she is as good as her reviews. I plan to focus on my upper body because it bothers me the most. I have lost 151lbs, nearly half my body weight. I am 53 years old so I don't have great elasticity in my skin. I feel fairly lucky that my weight was pretty much everywhere and I lost everywhere. My arms are the worst though. It is probably one of two spots where I…