PrettyBrown

8 hours ago, Blueslily said:

Hello all,

I'm having surgery in early April. I'm on Amazon looking at food scales. Any tips for a good type of scale? I see some that have bowls attached. Not sure which kind is more helpful.

Also. Were any other supplies helpful during the first few weeks of recovery? I don't want to spend money on a lot of stuff that I will only use a few times. But, I will be home alone recovering and do want supplies that will be worth the money.

Thanks!

Best of luck to you!! I’m nearly 4 months out, surgery was thee best decision I ever made. I hope yours is as successful and happy! I bought a food scale from Bed, Bath & Beyond, they also honor 20% coupons, so a deal made me feel better. I didn’t spend more than $15 on it, it’s nothing fancy, but it does the job! I would definitely recommend one, you’ll use it to each meal after surgery! It’s a whole lifestyle change, and I pray yours is a great one! Please reach out with questions, I’ve met people who helped and listed for me and I’d like to pass the buck. 😁 I also purchased small 3-8oz containers for your meals. Then once you start cooking with the new diet, you’ll notice what things would be needed... just pace yourself, and the best of luck to you! 🥳 💪🏽

Hi! I take the Bariatric Advantage calcium citrate chewables and the ProHealth Bariatric multivitamin chewable. I bought both from the hospital pharmacy initially, but they were almost $60 together. So, I went online and price matched, each brand’s website was the cheapest VS all other retailers I could find, so I ordered thru each of them. I didn’t even think of using other brands... that is now my today’s “DUH” moment. They offer a slight discount if you auto-ship, so I’ve done that for both. For the multivitamin chewable, I H.A.T.E the citrus flavor; but since I’m past one month post-op, my NP says I can switch to the pill. Honestly, anything would have sufficed as long as I don’t ever have to taste, smell or see the citrus flavor chewable ever again! I like that the pill form comes in a 90-day supply, so that will be helpful in cost per month. I think the Calcium Citrate chewies are $35 if you autoship. I’ve tried the ISO-PURE Protein waters, they are fantastic! I’ve also had the Protein Shakes, I don’t really drink them anymore, my tummy does not agree post-op.

I struggle with getting protein in, but I use the GENEPRO Protein Powder, it’s the only one my program suggested that isn’t flavored. I figured that would be best because I can add it to anything or any temp of food. It is a little more expensive than the others but it’s great and I have no complaints. Hope that helps! I know it can totally be overwhelming at first. Please reach out if you ever need a support!

55 minutes ago, MommaJay said:

No, the air went away in a matter of minutes but it was a very painful few minutes. My problem is, I'm just not thirsty lol, I don't mind the taste of Water at all. I just never drank much before and I'm not drinking much after. A bad habit I'm really trying to work on. If Mio or something might work for you, you could always just use as little as possible and alternate between plain water and flavored? Also, straws may work fine for you.

Thank you for the advice!

14 hours ago, MommaJay said:

I spoke too soon on the straws. I was fine for about 3 days but then I sucked up some air and the pain that immediately hit my stomach was unforgettable. So I'm over it. I'm still struggling to even get 40 oz of liquids but I'm trying.

Oh no! So sorry! Are you doing okay now or still dealing with the gas?? Sheesh! I was so looking forward to a straw! I’m struggling with my Water intake too! I’m averaging about 32-40oz per day... I had my one month checkup yesterday, they suggested infusing my water with fruit or using SF sweetener to get it down easier.... not sure if I want to do the sweeteners, my dr said it may give me more cravings for sugar moving forward. 😩

On 12/26/2020 at 9:09 AM, MeaganP said:

Hello, all.

I'm new here. I had my surgery on Nov 23. I've had an easy post-op *knocking wood*

I'm in the pureed /soft food stage for another bunch of weeks. On this coming Monday, I add fish to my schedule: tuna, salmon, crabmeat, firm-flesh fish like tilapia. Either in pureed form or in small bites no larger than a pencil eraser. Still at the 4 tbls a meal stage. Supposed to be here for another 4-6 weeks.
I have no idea what macros I'm supposed to hit. I have asked my nutritionist but she has told me not to worry about it too much. (?)

I have 4 meals a day. Two of those meals are Protein Shakes to make sure I get enough Protein. Then the other two meals are 3 tbls of protein-based food and 1 tbl of fruit or veg.

Can anyone suggest macro amounts for me? Again, nutritionist says I shouldn't worry about calorie count or macro count. Not comfortable with that. I need goals!

Welcome!! And congrats on your surgery!

On 12/28/2020 at 8:46 AM, MommaJay said:

I hit 199 lbs, it was so exciting seeing that number on the scale this morning. I'm also 4 weeks post op so hitting that milestone today was perfect! I'm down 25lbs even though I endured a 2 week stall already (ugh!). Those stalls are disheartening.

My struggles are still getting my fluids in so I started using my (reusable) straws 2 days ago and that is helping. I don't have any additional "air bubbles" gurgling up than I did before the straws. I also struggle with eating too quickly and getting sick bc it gets stuck. I want to do 3 meals and 2 Snacks but I realistically can't do that right now with my daily schedule. I have to do about 2 oz of food at a time (or less) more frequently to get it all in and to keep my stomach happy. I also had a hiatal hernia repaired so my esophagus is healing as well.

So you’re doing fine with using a straw??? I feel like it could help me get more Water in, I’ve been scared that it’ll cause gas! I had a problem with that right after surgery and have been scared ever since... anyone have any tips for me eating more Protein for Breakfast? I’ve done cottage cheese with GENEPRO Protein Powder, but am looking for some other ideas. I’ve been sticking to beans/scrambled eggs/cottage cheese.

also, has anyone tried BariatricPal foods?? Anything good there?

23 hours ago, shellzuk said:

Always good when you find something that suits to eat! I’m still on puréed/soft food (and supposed to stay on this until week 😎 but I have to admit, I’m not completely sticking to puréed foods-mainly because I can’t stand them!

Me too! I tried it the first couple days and it didn’t go down well. Maybe because it didn’t look appetizing. Mentioned it at my 2-week checkup, doctor said it’s okay, as long as your eating and my tummy is tolerating it. 👍🏽👍🏽 I’ve heard from a couple other people on this forum and from 3 people I’ve met through my program that it’s more common than you think. Hang in there! 😉

23 hours ago, TrueNorth1 said:

Don't you love finding something new?? The different tastes are so welcoming. When I was able to have a few crackers I was in heaven! I find I eat the same thing for at least 5 days because it lasts so long. My head is still in the "make extra".

Me too! It’s a hard habit to break. I notice it especially when I’m grocery shopping - I want to buy more than we ever need. 😞

23 hours ago, Grammie2 said:

Mine has slowed to 2 lbs. but I am still losing. It had been 4 lbs. a week.I’ll take what I can get. I did discovered a new Breakfast for me tho, — Skippy Protein Peanut Butter AND LIGHT ENGLISH MUFFINS! A VERY WELCOME CHANGE!!

Light English muffins?? Can we have those? I’m needing ideas for breakfast! But I know myself, if I start eating stuff I’m not supposed to, it’s a slippery slope!

On 12/15/2020 at 4:26 AM, shellzuk said:

I’ve hit the dreaded stall! 3.5 weeks out from surgery so it was kind of expected but still really annoying. I’d hoped to lose another 10 lbs by Christmas but I can’t see that happening now. Anyone else in the same boat?

I am right there with you! 23 days out, and I’ve actually gained 1.5lbs. 😫😫😫

On 12/10/2020 at 9:47 AM, mono stereo said:

Yeah, these sound like unreasonable expectations to me. I know the best advice is usually to listen to your doctor but what if the doctor won’t listen to you? That’s what it sounds like. You need to listen to your body and if all you can do is take a short walk, then do that. You did this surgery to be good to yourself, so continue being good to yourself. If you were my best friend I’d tell you to do healthy things that make you feel good for awhile and try not to let anyone pressure you.

100% agreed!!!!! Is there another doctor in your office that you can speak to?

On 12/10/2020 at 9:19 AM, CelinaLambeth said:

Thank you all for your honesty. I'm in a bad way, I'm so done with recovery. 15 days post op and I have a huge painful knot under my large incision and side stitch pain on the right. Not sleeping well because of the pulling pain. Doc told me yesterday to exercise more and expects me to lose 40 lbs every 3 months until I am down to 140. I haven't weighed 140 since middle school. I hurt physically and emotionally I am spent. I am so sore, I'd rather not start a rigorous exercise routine right now. Walking 20 mins a day is all I've got. I feel like I am behind everyone else....

No! You aren’t behind!! I’m about 4 weeks post-op and I’m handling walks only — you DEFINITELY aren’t behind! We all heal and move forward at our own pace! ☺️ I’m so sorry about the pain you’re experiencing. Hang in there! Can you maybe try an ice pack on the areas that hurt? I did that my first two nights at home, I was able to stop taking pain meds after I began using the ice pack, the numbness of the pain helped me finally get some rest. I found that the more I rested the more I was able to get up the next day and work thru the pain. 👍🏽 Hang in there!! It will get better!

On 12/9/2020 at 3:29 PM, bufbills said:

Its the stitches on the right side. They're taking forever to dissolve and when I move wrong they rip the flesh. I did it again this morning tying my shoe. Its killing me. Ugh. Other than that I'm good.

Have you considered wearing a band around your mid-section? I had a little tear and a drop of blood right after and my doctor suggested I wear the band until I stopped feeling so tight near the stitches.. maybe that will help??

On 12/9/2020 at 12:09 PM, Grammie2 said:

CONGRATS TO YOU!!!! That’s so encouraging!!! May it continue as you go through all this process! I’ve lost 4 lbs at a time but that’s it for me. And I’m not complaining- I’m happy with that!
I just started regular food, so now I don’t know what I’m in for!!🙏

Yay!! I thought the exact same immediately after surgery. I don’t feel that way anymore! I took a look at myself in the mirror, I can already see my figure and see what I’ll look like with an actual figure without the added baggage. 🥸 I am so excited and cannot believe I ever doubted! Thanks for sharing that!!

1 hour ago, shellzuk said:

I’m 19 days out. A little frustrated as I’m still in some pain. I’m a teacher and haven’t been able to go back to work yet. I’ve never been one for time off work-think it’s been 5 years since I was last off sick so it’s got me down a little! Going to see my consultant this afternoon after I called to say I was still in pain. Reading all your responses it seems as if everyone is really different in healing time so I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about but I just want to get out and about again! My wife and I moved in with my parents in the summer to save for a house deposit so I have my mother fussing around me constantly (shouldn’t complain really!) but feeling a little caged in! The pain is quite bad in the car so I haven’t driven yet. Haven’t commented much but it’s fab reading everyone’s stories-makes me feel better! On a brighter note, I am down 32 pounds so pretty happy with that!

Sorry your pain is sticking around! Are you up and walking? My pain subsided somewhat the more I walked. So happy for you on the 32lbs!! That’s what matters! We just bought our first home in March 2020, literally a week before COVID hit. Good luck on saving! It’s a slow process but so worth it once you get the keys to your new home!! Sending you prayers and best wishes for recovery!!

1 hour ago, TrueNorth1 said:

I did the same. I either ate Soup or soft food like eggs, refried Beans, lentils, canned chicken or tuna...and then chewed really well and had no problem. The first day I pureed 1 egg and it was just plain weird. So I went straight to mash up everything good.

Those are all great suggestions! I have had eggs and Beans but will try the others too. Yeah, purée was weird all around. I have my 2-week follow up with my doctor today. Let’s see how much I divulge! I have a feeling that they may give me a scolding for not sticking to the purée diet. 🙄

18 hours ago, FireEMT710 said:

Ladies! It's been 2 weeks since surgery! How's it going for everyone?

It’s going good! Me and puréed foods don’t get along, so I’ve been eating normal foods and just chewing super well and slow. My Water is okay, I’m not up to the 64oz daily yet. I’m averaging about 40-60g of Protein a day; it’s pretty hard to get to the full 80g my program suggests. I’ve been good since surgery though, I walked to the bathroom immediately after surgery right when I woke up. The pain the first two days was pretty gnarly, but it’s been good since getting home. I took pain meds only that first night I got home. The weight loss is slow but it’s still happening so I’m good with it! I’ve noticed my bones don’t crack when I get up and start moving. I feel like my legs jiggle more mow when I walk, not sure if that’s because of the weight loss or maybe it’s just in my head! 😱 movement is definitely easier now. My Toms would always be super tight on my feet, so there’s a little wiggle room when I wear them. (Yay!!) my clothes are looser now and a blouse that I haven’t worn in 2 years fits again! I am also nowhere near a tired at the end of my day like I used to be! it’s all for the little things, right? Soooo grateful to have you all!!!

Having it in the Gatorade Zero is a terrific idea!! Thanks!!!

Yeah; I think I will try the shakes again. A lady I met at the Protein Shake isle at Sam’s Club who also had surgery a year ago, told me that I’d be able to get down only about half the shake at a time. To try anymore in one sitting would be a waste because your tummy can’t process anymore than half at a time. I threw the boxes away already and stored them all in my pantry so I can’t really return them now. mind if I ask was it cheaper to buy the GENEPRO online? I got mine at GNC locally but it was $38 for a 30-day supply. I’m hoping to buy cheaper next time.

1 hour ago, LaoDaBeirut said:

I had my sleeve on 11/30. All went well and on surgery day I felt great with no pain. Then the next day I vomited all day long. I also had a problem where my IV came out and it took a surgical team to get it back in.

Now I'm doing much better. No pain and I am doing fine with liquids. I haven't lost a single pound yet but I'm assuming that will change soon.

Kudos! I had nausea in the hospital really bad, I stayed one day after surgery (required). When I got home I haven’t really had that except for the first night. I blamed it on the purée of turkey and green Beans. I haven’t really had purée since. I’ve just been chewing my food really well. The pounds will come off, just be patient with yourself and the process! Best of luck that you see the numbers coming down soon!

1 hour ago, kalí̱ ygeía said:

We did it y'all! Congratulations! Our surgeries are behind us.... time to double down on our efforts as we go through the ups and downs that come with this drastic change in our lives. It's well worth it and we're going to be fine. It's not easy for everyone, but the veterans on this site tell us that it does get better.

My experience has been relatively easy. I've had some moments where the food didn't settle well and caused me heartburn, but fortunately no major issues. The incision sites do bother me from time to time, but I feel that soon enough I'll be able to lay on my tummy. I've been cleared for exercise, but haven't yet started. My arms are looking rather flabby, so am going to do arm weights! I'm in the soft food stage and am looking forward to getting to solid. I have noticed though that food isn't calling me like before. The family had pizza, but I didn't feel deprived. I didn't feel bummed out.

Although I did get annoyed and frustrated at all the changes (e.g. wanted to gulp down my water), I didn't have buyer's remorse. In the short term, it's already helped me with my health issues, so am grateful for that. I think we're all so blessed that we got to have our surgery this month considering that Covid cases are in the up everywhere.

@CelinaLambeth Sorry that you had such a crappy experience. Hopefully the rest will be much more smoothly.

@MommaJay Was your surgery outpatient? My surgeon didn't have me do a fanny pack. He just had me on pain meds, but fortunately by the second day didn't need any so never touched the ones at home.

Does anyone have a specific take on how often to weigh yourself? Do you do it daily, weekly, monthly?

THANK YOU for the advice for the long-term!! It definitely helps to know this tightness in my tummy won’t last forever!

I decided after surgery to weigh myself only weekly. Sundays are the day I’ve chosen. They say not to do it so often, but I don’t want to wait. At least for right now where I should be losing lbs pretty regularly, hopefully. 🤞🏽

4 hours ago, FireEMT710 said:

I finally pooped yesterday. lol Figures I would complain about it, and then it happens. I need to dig out my paper and see what stool softeners are allowed though. I haven't had a chance to intentionally "go walking" but man, for this being a week I'm supposed to be recovering, I have TONS of appointments and things that I have to do. I want a day to just relax... lol

Ditto! It’s been 9 days since surgery and today is finally the day I’ve promised myself I would do nothing and relax!!!!! I’ve been going non-stop since surgery. No judgement to you! We all have lives, they don’t stop just because we had surgery. But if you ever feel tired thru those days, I hope you’ll stop and rest or ensure you get a little more sleep that night. 👍🏽 If you’re able to move around, I say good! I kinda felt like it’s a good sign of recovery if you can move and be on the go. But... I’m guilty of not really slowing down, so take my words with a grain of salt. 😉

13 hours ago, Lanie Hardy said:

I’ve been MIA for a minute. My Dad just passed away. He was diagnosed with cancer and passed within 3 weeks. I’ve cried my head off, I did get to see him one more for a day before surgery. I’ve felt so sorry for myself and even told my daughter “You should be able to eat whatever you want when your Dad dies.” This has been so hard and good for me to be challenged this early in, I’m having to find other things to comfort and connect other then food. Sorry I’ve disappeared. I’ve not gone off plan, but I’m having a hard time making myself eat. Since I don’t feel hungry, it’s easy to get pulled into sorrow and avoid life. Having this group here gives me strength! Thank you for all of your stories and strength and determination to keep going! We got this!!

Sending you love, prayers and virtual bear hugs! I’m sorry to hear about your daddy. Please let me know if you ever need an ear. 🙂

7 hours ago, Luckz said:

Hello 👋🏾

I also had my bypass done on Nov 23rd in Fremont CA. I was on a horrible 2 week liquid diet before hand. I am currently on the stage 2 puréed foods. I’m having such a hard time getting anything in especially my Protein. I used to love the premade shakes before surgery but now I can’t tolerate them. I thought I was so prepared for this but nope my body doesn’t like anything I used to like before surgery so it’s been an interesting 9 days.

Hi Luckz! I had mine on 11/24. Yes, I also cannot tolerate the Protein Shakes now, they honestly disgust me. Don’t tell my hubby that, he just bought me two more cases. My dietician suggested that if you don’t like something initially, to give it a second try 7 days later. It’s supposed to be better the second time. They just stare at me now whenever I open the fridge. 🤣 have you tried Protein Powder? I got the GENEPRO one, it’s a little more expensive than the others, but my dietician says this is one of the best. I honestly got it only because it was unflavored, I hoped I’d be able to throw it in anything I ate to help get the Protein numbers in each day. I mix it with cottage cheese and it’s been delightful! What do you like these days? Anything that’s worked for you?? I’m all ears!

Hi Tim! I need the same support so please consider me a friend!! I just figured out I can still eat crap, but need to avoid it. I will def need some accountability partners! 🙂

3 hours ago, FireEMT710 said:

Aw, thank you. I live in southern missouri. I've driven so I could have gone and gotten it but needed pain meds yesterday, so I didn't take the risk.

Most of the people I told have had some variance of WLS, but I suspect that my friends and sis may be jealous, because they all struggle with weight, and in the past we've done crazy diets together.

It is amazing that you are able to see the possible side of theirs! Kudos to you! But yes, I suspect that may be part of why I didn’t want to share my news; their reactions would turn me off from them. I commend you and congratulate you for being willing to take this big step for your health! I won’t forget you! I mentioned to another person if you’d like to have a regularly scheduled check in, so that none of us ever have to feel forgotten? LMK what you think? I could use the support also 😁!