Karess Haivala

Thanks for the response! They did suggest I add in some salt too. I had a thyroid test done and I've been on thyroid meds fir about ten years. For the first time since I've been on them, my levels gave gone up. (My dr said most people feel best closer to a 1, my recent test has me at a 3.5). We are increasing my medication in the hopes of bringing me closer to a 1 again. This *could* be the problem! but it will be a little of trial and error with changing dosages to figure it all out.

I'm going into my regular dr on Friday to have blood work done. I'm also really bloated and gassy, which hasn't been an issue. Going over food log, nothing stands out as a culprit except sugarfree coffee syrup. Build up maybe?

I am 7 months post op and down 100 pounds. I've completely gotten off blood pressure meds and I am taking my daily Vitamins and getting at least 80 grams of Protein a day. (I'm making sure I do at least 2 Protein shakes a day as my levels were a little low at about 4 months out. ) The last two weeks I am really feeling exhausted and I last time I felt this way, I knew it was my blood pressure was too low, indicating it was time to completely go off my meds. Doctors agreed and then I was fine. I am feeling the same type of exhaustion but my bp is good. I've been checking it on a regular basis to make sure that isn't an issue. I am still on thyroid meds, and wondering if its time to go in and have those levels rechecked. Anyone go thru similar situtation? I'm waiting on the doc to get back to me. I know I am doing everything right, but feel like my body is telling me something.

Luvin_Life125 has it right. Have some snack options ready to go. I keep Protein shakes on hand. I had never tried hummus until post surgery but that is a great snack. I often roll up an ounce of turkey meat with cheese and have that too. I haven't tried apples yet, but I need to.

Just think of it like you are taking control of your health. Surgery is scary. I didn't think my dad would be supportive, but in the end, he is very proud of me. There came a point when I brought it up to my regular doctor and she said agreed, that we had tried everything and my body needed help. I feel no shame in my decision to have the surgery. And it was the best thing for me. I'm three months out and would do it again in a heart beat. The hardest part was waiting to schedule surgery after you've made up your mind to go for it. That was the longest wait! Best of luck to you on your journey!

The last few nights (at night after dinner) I am finding I am getting a little snacky. I have to really address this as it was a big reason I gained weight pre-surgery. Late last night I had a bite of my daughter's pizza, then asked my husband to get it away from me. I don't want to go down the rabbit hole. So I had 1/2 cup of cottage cheese. I did pretty good over Valentines, avoiding chocolate and wine. I've been checking out lots of recipes for cooking post surgery. Anyone got any great recipes to share?

You can do it! Hang in there. It's hard, but so worth it!

I don't think I was ever told about no straws. While in the hospital everything was in a straw. I haven't used one since week one, so it's not an issue. I do a little caffeine. I asked about gum because my diet breath is awful. Dr. said it was ok but to make sure I never swallowed it as that would cause trouble. I have sipped a small amount of wine twice, while drinking Water. I have had whole wheat toast with PB for Breakfast with no issues, but I can't finish a whole piece. I avoid rice and Pasta. If I want a bite of a sweet, I have a bite. But I've really lost my taste for sweets.

I know it's rough at first, but hang in there! I'm three months post op and I have no regrets. I didn't have the spasms that I have read other sleevers suffered through, but I did have some big issues with bowel movements. From my vantage point, I am so happy I did it and I wish you nothing but the best. Follow the dr's orders...water water and more water. I'm at the point now where I have no hunger, and I make sure I eat enough every day. It gets better!

HANG IN THERE! It gets better, it really does. And it is so worth being on this side of the fence, where you put yourself first!

Love what you wrote! I am 3 months out and starting to feel 'normal'. A new normal. I pay attention to what I eat, I enjoy picking out clothes to wear, and I'm finally past the fatigue stage. Cheers to the new normal!

I was told to have a little caffeine to help my digestive issues. So I do one coffee with skim milk or a tea that is caffeinated. But I don't over do it at all. I was told that caffeine will dehydrate you so if you do have it, drink more and more water!

I was told to do the Flintstone Chewable once a day. I actually like it. I'm 3 months post op.

Loriemoms....I'm not crazy to think it could be the meat then? I am doing about 64ounces of water. I am still working my way back up to 80. I do eat prunes for snack. I haven't done much bananas and I do a little cheese on some things. I really wonder if its the meat?

I have found a friendship was effected more than my marriage. I had someone that I considered a very good friend, who went through lapband, distance herself from me. I haven't seen her since my surgery 11/24! I keep inviting her to do things and she flat out told me she didn't want to be the 'fat friend'. I was blown away. I got the big clue that this friendship was more one sided than I had thought. You really need to surround yourself with positive, supportive people. My coworkers have been amazing for me! My family is behind me too. My husband tells me I look amazing. But losing that friendship, that really sucked.