BeagleLover

I've heard walking helps the gas problem a lot!

I can't address post-op issues yet, but I think it would be a good idea to let your doctor know about how low the blood pressure is! I've seen loads of posts about Protein powders being hard to tolerate, especially right after surgery. You may want to ask your NUT about two products mentioned on this site, ProSource liquid Protein, available from Amazon and First Option Medical,http://www.firstoptionmedical.com which was reportedly used in the hospital, mixed with Crystal Lite. Also, ProSource Plus liquid protein, available from Amazon and http://www.healthykin.com. I'm still doing research on these to find out what the difference is between the ProSource and ProSource Plus. . They are unflavored, liquid and mix in either cold OR hot. I thought this might be a good alternative to purchasing very expensive ready-to-drink bottles containing protein for a Clear liquids phase. Hope this helps!

I don't use any anti-aging serums. I got a boonie hat from costco for $15 which has a very wide brim. Every time I go outside I wear it to prevent sun damage. If you can't or don't want to wear a hat, I suggest you use a good sunblock lotion with an SPF of at least 30 and polarized sunglasses .

I wonder if the person at the insurance company gets some sort of bonus for successfully thwarting a surgery. I've heard UHC is difficult. That's what I have.

I think a therapist may be able to help you sort all this out. Please do your best to get as much Water and Protein in as possible.

I suggest you go to the bariatric coordinator of the hospital you want to attend. They know the rules and have had extensive experience working with them.

"No spicy foods" doesn't mean no flavor. Make Indian or other recipes, leaving out the oil and hot pepper. Penzey's has a "sweet curry powder"; "sweet" means it doesn't have the usual cayenne pepper mixed into it. It's very tasty!

I'm so sorry! I thought there was a separate forum for revision from lap band to sleeve. There isn't one now. You could go to the Forum Tab/All Surgery Forums and put "revision" as a search term. I did find this: http://www.bariatricpal.com/topic/310635-band-to-sleeve-revision/ I personally chose the sleeve because I had read about the "stuck" feeling people get and a higher complication rate with the band. Also, the sleeve surgery removes the side of the stomach that produces the hormone that makes you hungry. I read that it feels more natural. Today I found this: https://spring.asmbs.org/courses/advanced-bariatric-life-support-fundamentals-of-bariatric-surgery/ One of the seminars: Is There Still A Role for the Lap-Band? Many people have had the Lap Band and it works fine for them. It's a personal decision.

I suggest getting cookbooks for different cuisines and trying those recipes. Indian vegetarian recipes are anything but boring! You may want to try "spinach saag." I'd try adding a little plain yogurt & unflavored protein to it after it cools to 140 degrees or less.

I had second thoughts about putting my 2 cents in, especially after you seem to have made your mind up already. Sometimes, that gum can give you diarrhea. 'nuf said.

Look for the special section on this site for people who had a lap band and revised to a sleeve. My take on it is that they know what they "feel" like and how they are the same and how they're different. You'll find lots of feedback from those in a position to know.

I will be a hot mess in around two months. From what I've read, your tastes will change and you will enjoy food again, just different healthier foods. Best of luck!

@@Bufflehead Thanks for the ready information on getting protein powder sample packs!

6 monthly visits for me

Hope everything goes smoothly. I suggest you fill in your profile info so people will find it easier to help you.

Yes, there are unflavored protein powders. My NUT emphasized getting protein powders that are 100% whey protein ISOLATE. Some other types of proteins, i.e., concentrate, casein, may not be as absorbable. One brand is ISOPURE. There are others, but can't think of them off-hand.

You mentioned that, if you go over in calories, you make up for it with exercise... a great option. There are two suggestions I have to lower the caloric hits you are taking. I assume you like bacon. I use Honeyville textured vegetable protein, flavored like Ham. It tastes just like bacon, but is made out of soy. You could add it to scrambled eggs to get the flavor of bacon. Another alternative I use is COSTCO Canadian bacon. One slice is over 99% fat free and only 20 calories. I'm NOT suggesting you eat fewer calories, just ways to not go over whatever calorie goal you have and still enjoy it.

Wow! So creative! Thanks... I'll put that in my recipe binder!

Great to hear your diabetes numbers are fine now! Also good to hear that everything goes down more naturally now, without pain. Lookin' good too! Congrats.

Thanks for the tip so others can avoid going back to work too early. I hope you feel better soon. Best wishes.

Could be a UTI?

Best wishes! If you don't mind telling us, what made you decide to switch from the band to the sleeve?

Good luck! Wish you the best. Let us know how you're doing!

@@b4real5 I haven't had surgery yet. There is restriction with both and no malabsorption. I paid particular attention to the Forum, Revision from Lap Band to Sleeve. I figured these folks have had both and can describe the difference. I chose the sleeve because it seemed to have a lesser complication rate after surgery and more natural feel.

Exciting, isn't it!