Inner Surfer Girl

I am so sorry you are experiencing this. I know how much of our culture both personally and professionally involves spending time together for meals. They probably feel as awkward and uncertain as you do. Maybe you could invite them to lunch, or organize a group lunch or potluck at work? Maybe bring in something that is bariatric-friendly that they might enjoy so you can share with them? Or, organize a group outing that doesn't revolve around food (bowling, painting, or something like that). They just may not know how to be around you or may be afraid that they will "tempt" you away from what is working for you. I find it helps to assume that people have the best intentions until I have evidence to the contrary. I would love to hear what other people suggest.

It took me a while because of the snow and my physical therapy, but I finally got my massage today. I promise not to wait so long for my next one. I still have two certificates left and definitely have to use them before they expire in June.

It's not good. Getting enough fluids is a challenge. But, keep in mind that you can count all fluids. That means you can count: sugar-free Popsicles, crushed ice, Protein supplements, broth, herbal or decaf tea, Water with crystal light, Mio drops, or other enhancers, as well as plain water. The sooner you can reach your hydration and protein goals, the better you will feel and the easier you will heal. Just keep sipping. The last thing you want is to wind up in the ER because of dehydration.

What do your post-op instructions say? It is a clear liquid. As to acidic, are you required to avoid acidic foods?

Initially, right after surgery I kept myself busy by sipping. Sipping and walking is pretty much a full time job! Once you are able to do other things you could color, knit/crochet, read, watch tv, etc.

I took an extra pair of underwear (just wore home what I wore to the hospital -- a loose dress), lip balm, biotene, heating pad, a pillow for the ride home, and my mom!

I am not aware that they are bariatric-appropriate. If your NUT doesn't approve then I certainly would listen. You have to read labels carefully.

Then go to your PCP and/or find another surgeon. If you have insurance, see if they can refer you to someone else.

I just ran across a good suggestion on how to use string cheese in a snack. Even though I am quite happy eating cheese plain, this looks pretty tasty. http://www.sargento.com/recipes/smart-snacks/tomato-basil-n-cheese-snack?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Social&linkId=21417989 What is your favorite way to eat cheese sticks or hard cheese?

If you are in physical pain then you need to talk to a physician. As was noted above, we aren't doctors. What do you mean by: "Doctors office isn't helpful"? Do you have a therapist? Once you address the immediate physical problems it would probably be helpful to talk with someone about your depression and why you ate too much.

I don't see a question. Something shows up in the preview but I don't see anything when I open the message. Am I missing something? (I am on my phone.)

Congratulations!

I don't have a lapband, so please take this with a grain of salt, but you seem to be eating an awful lot of carbs, even if you are putting cheese on them. Have you talked to your NUT?

It is strange to remind myself to try something I couldn't do before and find that I can. It reminds me how often my physical limitations may actually be mental.

Follow your surgeon's instructions. Mine was clear liquids for the first week, with the exception of Premier Protein and a couple of approved ProtiDiet Soups. Some clear liquids that have protein are Isopure, ProtiDiet liquid beverage concentrates, and bone broth. Getting your protein and fluids is critical. If you are I doubt about what you are allowed, call your NUT and ask.

I think a slight fever is fairly normal but you might want to call your surgeon just in case. Were you given a list of symptoms to look for when you were discharged? If anything feels it seems out of the ordinary don't be afraid to call and ask.

I'm not a vegetarian, but have made a pot of black Beans in my slow cooker a few times. I just tarted with dry beans and added some Water and broth (I used beef but you could use vegetable or just water). I put in some dried onion and seasonings (random stuff from my spice drawer - Mexican spice and Moroccan spice I think). Near the end I mixed in some Rotel tomatoes and a can of fire roasted tomatoes so it came out kind of soupy. I added a block of cream cheese, too. I ate beans for days!

I don't because even though I am honest with myself, I prefer to remain anonymous on the Internet. Maybe someday.

I use a lot of Pace Picante Sauce and other salsa, too.

Do you use the nutritional yeast before you roast the vegetables or after?

Actually, I don't think 2 days with no change on the scale really counts as a stall. For me, a stall has to be longer than a week. That said, stalls are a normal, natural, and necessary part of the process of losing weight. If you plan to lose a substantial amount of weight, then you will experience stalls. Almost everyone experiences their first stall about three weeks after surgery. Just follow your program. Focus on getting in all of your Protein and fluids. Stay off the scale. And, Embrace the Stall! http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/351046-Embrace-the-Stall

I use Greek seasoning a lot, too. I'll have to check out Jalapeno salt. I do have Bourbon salt! .

I agree with what everyone has said. Another thing I have noticed is that even though everyone who has WLS (or is even considering it) is overweight or obese, that may be the ONLY thing they have in common. Obesity is a disease that affects all kinds of people. There is a wide range of people with different levels of life experience, age, education level, self awareness, common sense, socioeconomic class, and physical, emotional and intellectual capacity and capability. It takes all kinds!

I have generally been very good about putting my head in the sand and avoiding things like my size and weight. For a long time I even avoided knowing what my weight was when I was weighed at the doctors office. As part of the process of preparing for WLS I had to decide to be fearlessly honest with myself about my weight/obesity (I always hated that word and felt very uncomfortable using it, even when I was super morbidly obese). I truly believe that being rigorously honest with myself and with my medical team are critical to my being able to succeed.

Have you at least had a PCP checking your bloodwork? You definitely need to find a PCP.. Tell him or her what you told us and ask for blood work.