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For the most part, the people I told that I was having hernia surgery or that I had started eating healthy/exercising were not the same people who I later told. If there's gossiping behind my back, I'm oblivious of it. My oldest son seemed to be a little upset. Not because I didn't tell him, but because I had the surgery at all. At this point, it's hardly an issue. We sort of make a game of it in restaurants to see who's willing to share a meal with mom.

I'm a rather private person and when I had my surgery I only told about 3 or 4 people who I consider in my close circle. I didn't even tell my adult children. After a while, I started loosening up on the subject and told people if they asked. I think it started when my kids started asking questions. They thought I was sick and they weren't buying the "Mom's on a new diet" response anymore. You may be as private as you like. It's YOUR journey. However, be prepared for questions. I had my canned responses at the ready, like "I had a hernia repair" or "A minor surgical procedure" or "I'm eating healthier and exercising more" All of which were more or less true. For people who weren't close to me, those all worked like a charm. BUT, for those closest to me they didn't buy it after a while.

May I ask what type of lentils you're using? I ask because I've noticed that green/brown lentils for me are tough and can produce gas, no matter how I prepare them. Whereas, if I use RED/orange lentils, I get a much better consistency and don't notice any gas/bloating. Just a thought.

I agree with @catwoman7 on all points and include one additional perspective on the "pouch reset". The "pouch reset" has little to do with the size of your pouch. There is little scientific evidence that it shrinks the size of a stretched pouch. The reset may temporarily shrink it but more importantly, it is a "mind reset." https://www.livingwithasleeve.com/pouch-reset/ So, as you say, you still feel as if you have restriction. It's just that you've returned to bad habits. If you choose to do the "pouch reset" use those days to break your bad habits. These resets are usually 4-6 days, some up to 10. Here's more info: https://www.obesitycoverage.com/the-pouch-reset-losing-weight-after-weight-regain/

@Maria Isabel I agree 100% with this post: Depending on the brand of your Multivitamin, you may not be getting the specific nutrients for hair growth. Another thought, maybe you have a medical condition that affects your hair like hypothyroidism. Definitely discuss with your doctor and get a full panel of bloodwork to rule everything out. I also struggle with fine, thin hair. Here's some suggestions: Find a supplement designed for healthy hair. Caution: There are LOTS of companies out there that claim their vitamins/supplements give you full, lush hair. They can get VERY expensive, so approach with skepticism and do your homework before investing. Consider how your hair care routine is affecting your hair: type of shampoo and the frequency you shampoo can make a difference Consider scalp oils and massage. I use 3 types of oils and make sure to do a deep scalp massage the night before I shampoo. Consider occasional "hair masks" or treatments. I've done them, but not consistently. I noticed when I do take the time that my hair appears fuller and is more manageable for a few days afterward. Sleep on a silk pillowcase. Standard cases lead to increased breakage. Just a warning: despite all of the above ^ as well as the countless others I've tried, my hair is still baby fine and thin. My hair loss started after I gave birth to my first child. Having weight loss surgery certainly didn't help, but I wouldn't say it's directly responsible. Personally, I've resigned myself to it. My grandmother also had fine, thin hair and wore a wig for most of her adult life, so I've probably drawn the short straw in the genetics department. Recently, I discovered TOPPERS. They're sort of a partial-wig that only goes on the top of your head. I just couldn't accept or tolerate a full wig and a good friend of mine is a hairdresser and she recommended that I get a hairpiece. Not just for vanity, but for my own confidence and mental health. I mean it does get tiresome spending every morning trying to strategically style your hair to hide the loss. So, I spent a lot of time on YouTube watching wig and topper videos and decided to take the plunge about 2 months ago. I could not be happier. I love it! Best of luck!

For about the first 2-3 months after I was sleeved, I struggled to find the right multivitamin, time to take it, how to take it, etc. Like you, I experienced nausea and fullness. I eventually settled on VitaFusion, multivitamin gummies. I know that some docs say no on gummies, but they were the only thing that didn't make me sick for about an hour or 2 after I took them. It was a matter of either getting my vitamins or not. I always had to take them with a meal, but I'd done that with the others and they still made me sick. I'm afraid this period for you will likely be a bit of trial and error to find what works for you. After about 6 months, I was able to transition back to standard multi-vitamins. Today, I take them with my evening meal because I take my calcium supplement in the morning.

Exactly this ^ As a rule, I avoid carbonated beverages. In 2 years, I've only had a carbonated beverage once. I had a few sips of true old-fashioned root beer. The kind made on-site at an old fashioned root beer stand. It's lower carbonation than bottled. Also, I was told years ago that caffeine exacerbates GERD. I cut out caffeine all those years ago. So even when I did drink carbonated beverages, they were naturally non-caffeine (lemon-lime, root beer). That's the reason I primarily drink green or herbal teas. Low or no caffeine.

I second @catwoman7, contact your doctor.

#1-you should be talking about this with your doctor As someone who suffers from GERD, I can only offer you advice on what's worked for me: I take a daily proton pump inhibitor. My preference is Nexium (generic equivalent). However, there are others: Prilosec, Prevacid (available over the counter). Depending on your particular situation, H2 blockers like Pepcid and Tagamet may be effective. Again, you need to discuss with your doctor. I practice many lifestyle modifications because of it. Here are a few: I limit acidic foods or those that produce acid (tomatoes, coffee, citrus, chocolate). I drink LOTS of water and herbal teas. Some of my teas are specifically geared towards digestion. Ginger is good. Pu Erh tea is good. I sleep with my head elevated. We're not talking about a stack of pillows. The best is to completely incline your bed, but my hubby wasn't having that. So, I have a special wedge that I sleep on. Lastly and probably most important: I NEVER EAT WITHIN 3 HOURS OF BEDTIME. Other things I do: I take an apple cider vinegar capsule. There are some studies that have shown acid reflux is related to a LOW level of acid in the stomach. Strange, but true. So, a little vinegar supposedly keeps the ph balance right and keeps your stomach from overproducing acid. I also keep digestive enzymes (papaya is good) on hand, just in case I feel bloated or my food has become a rock in my gut. Bonus: There are natural methods for treating acid reflux. They have their cons in terms that they fall in one of 2 categories. Either they are just a temporary symptom relief or they take FOREVER to notice improvement. For a rescue relief, I highly recommend a small bit of baking soda dissolved in water. I personally found almost immediate relief from this. I honestly thought it was bunk, but I was out of Tums and needed SOMETHING. This did the trick. Another rescue relief is Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL). This is not the licorice candy that you get in the store. It has been processed to reduce potential side effects like high blood pressure. I have also found this effective, but the baking soda is a much quicker relief for me. Herbalists recommend Slippery Elm for those with chronic acid reflux. There is some evidence that it helps develop a natural protective coating in the GI tract to reduce the development of ulcers. Con: you have to take A LOT of it over a long period. I'll stick with my prescription Carafate, thank you. Last bit of advice and I'll get off my soapbox: Whoever told you to drink 1% milk for acid has done you a disservice. Dairy products in general increase mucous production and can increase your chances for GERD. So, while I wouldn't necessarily avoid them, just know that they aren't necessarily going to help any acid problems you have. Disclaimer: The statements above are not intended to be in lieu of medical advice. Please see or speak with your doctor about your symptoms.

I took Topiramate 25mg, twice a day for years. It was prescribed for seizures I had. I can't say that it had any impact on my weight loss. Metformin is a diabetes medication. It evens out or balances your blood sugar. I've seen cases where it was prescribed for pre-diabetics and they lost weight. Doctors aren't exactly sure how it works in relation to weight loss. They suspect that it acts as a mild appetite suppressant. *My husband takes metformin. Since he started taking it, he has GAINED weight.

I used to take topiramate for a seizure disorder. It had NO effect on my weight. I take ACV, but not for weight loss. I take it for gut health and the secondary benefits like more balanced blood sugar and cholesterol. I don't believe it has had any effect on my weight loss or lack of. I have noticed that when I don't take it, I crave sugar more. So, there's that. Otherwise, I don't think I'd take diet pills at this point. They didn't work for me before and I doubt they'd be any more effective now.

I'm 2 years out. I can eat more than I could at the beginning. I'd say about 1 cup on average, sometimes more depending on the density of the food. I still have "restriction" in the sense that #1-my portion sizes are certainly limited and #2-if I go beyond my limit I am uncomfortable.

It is unlikely that your foot drop is directly related to your VSG. I strongly encourage you to continue to follow up with your medical team. If you aren't getting the answers you need from your current team, consider getting a second opinion. From my encounters with patients who have it, foot drop is a musculoskeletal manifestation of a neurological problem. From a little digging, I found this link Spine-Health Foot Drop I consider Sine Health a reputable source and use them a lot in my work. You say it started after a dull ache in your hip. On the above link, I see that it could be a result of trauma to the hip or pelvis. Any falls in your remote past? Also, look at the peroneal nerve cause: "EXCESSIVE WEIGHT LOSS" or even something simple like an ankle sprain. Based on my understanding of foot drop, it is MANAGED and not CURED. So, you'll likely have some degree of residual foot drop forever. While we're all quarantined, there's not much in terms of aggressive treatment. But, here's what I would do: 1. I'd make sure I had supportive footwear and definitely something supporting my ankle. An ankle splint is best (behind the foot to hold the foot in position and keep from dropping). If you don't have that, I'd put an ace wrap or similar on it to help support the joint. 2. I would immediately begin some sort of range of motion and strength exercises of the ankle and foot. Ankle rolls (clockwise, counterclockwise, up/down). If you have thera-bands or something similar, I'd use those too. *YouTube is a wealth of knowledge and I'm sure you could find some easy-to-do exercises for home. Disclaimer: my input is not meant to be taken in lieu of your personal medical team's advice. As a nurse, I cannot diagnose or prescribe, but I can tell you what I've seen and what I'd do if it were me. Good luck!

See my response to this post. My thoughts and opinions haven't changed.

Well, unless my "liquidy food" is entirely the same consistency as water, it has a short stay in my stomach. Maybe not the same stay as solid foods, but eating ANYTHING with even the most minimal substance I get full and stay full. The length of time I stay full may vary. EX: I routinely eat soup, all kinds of soup. Love it! That includes creamy soups and brothy soups. These soups usually have some substance to it or even some solids like meat and vegetables. I get FULL. I can also get full on puddings and jellos. *And that's 2 years out! So, I guess my point here is, if I can get full on these things, why would I "wash away" the food that's in my stomach by drinking after I eat? If I do that, it defeats the purpose of my surgery and I would easily get hungry again. Besides, I find it uncomfortable to drink if there is something in my stomach. Therefore, if I've eaten anything I follow that rule. If my food has the same consistency as water and with no discernable solids, I would consider that drinking. (broth, popsicle, shaved ice)

Costco is my "go to" for all meat. It's reasonably priced, good quality, and tastes great. Fortunately, I have plenty of room in my freezer because they sell it in large quantities. My favorite is the stuffed peppers from the deli section. They're easy to cook, convenient, taste great and make great leftovers! *They do have a little rice in them, but not enough to make a huge difference.

1st, a few Ritz crackers aren't going to completely sabotage your success. The question here isn't whether you CAN but whether you SHOULD. As others have posted, most bariatric programs are low-carb. Crackers, bread, etc are some of the "no-no's." My concern is this statement in your post: If at anytime you feel that there's a rock sitting in your chest, something isn't right. It could be a number of things: too big a bite, not chewed well enough, you've advanced your diet too quickly. I suggest you reach out to your bariatric team to let them know you're experiencing this and what you're doing that leads to it. More than likely, they'll have you go back to full liquids. It's possible you just irritated something and you still need to heal. Good Luck! PS: Soft diet is NOT the same as mushy/puree. Make sure you're eating the right stage for you.

My hunger has evolved over time. For the 1st 5 months or so, I had no hunger and ate on a schedule to meet my nutritional goals. At about the 6 month mark, I noticed hunger but it wasn't the same "I'm STARVING" hunger, just sort of a nagging emptiness. Today, at 2 years post-op I noticed that I have virtually no hunger in the morning, but in the afternoon I am hungry. Again, it's not an "I'm STARVING" hunger but it's now more of a craving that I have to really be careful of. So, I still generally eat on a schedule because I believe if I don't eat regularly, then I'm more apt to reach for things I shouldn't. Just a word of caution: I've seen many posts from sleeved patients on BP who complain of hunger immediately post-op. Surgeons "sell" this procedure by promising that they've removed the part of the stomach responsible for hunger. It's true, that the surgery generally removes our Ghrelin generator, but that doesn't mean that everyone experiences no hunger or changed hunger. There are a few people I've seen who seem to struggle with this. I'm not sure if it's "head hunger" that we all have to a degree or true physical hunger since I didn't experience it, but I thought you should know. Also, if you're feeling lightheaded or dizzy, hunger is not usually the direct cause of a symptom like that. This may be related to sugar spikes/lows, blood pressure changes, or dehydration. Foggy brain is a common symptom in carb withdrawal. I suggest mindfulness. Pay attention to your body after you've eaten and pay attention to WHAT you eat that causes certain symptoms. Know that sometimes hunger feels like thirst.

Not Pilates, specifically. BUT, I had a trainer that taught me what he called Egoscue. I guess he trained with the people who developed Egoscue. If you look it up, it looks like physical therapy for pain. The course and routine that my trainer did was sort of a combination of pilates and yoga. With the exception of a few years that I "fell off the wagon", I still do parts of that routine today. I suffer from hip and sciatic pain, but when I'm doing that routine regularly I have none. When I do it regularly (sometimes daily, but at least 3 times per week), I have no pain. I am flexible and my balance is good. My trainer called it "organized." I can't say that it's made a big impact on my weight loss, but having better posture and being physically organized has helped me become more active in general. It's also "shaped me" a bit and helped me lose inches in the right places.

Sorry to say that this is something you're just going to have to wait out. Look up telogen effluvium. It's common after a stressful event like surgery or change in your nutrition. It's part of the normal hair cycle and will stop. I've done (and still do) the vitamins and hair loss shampoos. I've struggled with fine, thin (and thinning) hair that is prone to breakage for years and it feels like a daily battle. The things I found most effective were hair OILS with scalp massage. I started with a product called "Hair Envy". Effective, but expensive. I currently do a combo of what I have left of the Hair Envy and a couple of drops of CBD oil. I alternate that with an Ayurvedic hair revitalizer oil and may even do a coconut oil deep conditioning treatment once in a while. These make my hair soft and strong, but it DOES NOT make it noticeably thicker/fuller.

From my experience, it's a little hit or miss. I think it also has a lot to do with your surgeon and his/her approach I had a friend who was really encouraging me to get the sleeve. She had a lap band and developed Barrett's esophagus. She got the sleeve and has had no GERD. Her esophageal issues resolved. I had a history of GERD, also had been banded. Doctors warned me that I may develop GERD after the sleeve. However, we discussed it because like you, I did not want the malabsorptive aspects of RNY. After some testing, we came to the conclusion that my GERD was "situational" meaning that a combination of things were contributing to it: my weight, a small hiatal hernia, overall dietary choices, etc. I went through with the sleeve. About 6 weeks in, I started getting heartburn that eventually advanced to nighttime reflux. It's been easily controlled with Nexium and some minor lifestyle changes like not eating 3 hours before bedtime and sleeping on a wedge. HOWEVER, I do get "flare-ups" of esophagitis and have to take Carafate when it happens. Other than the occasional esophagitis, I have no long term or lasting consequences of GERD. My GI doctor and I are currently looking into a Stretta procedure to thicken the lower esophageal sphincter.

As others have said, it's common to experience hair loss after ANY surgery. Mine started at about 3 or 4 months and seemed to go on forever. I wasn't worried until I could really see the thinning in my scalp. At the time, I had close to shoulder-length hair and I found that the length seemed to make it look worse because the weight of the hair was pulling it down a bit and "showing off" the scalp. So, I cut it into a short bob. I had always taken a Hair, Skin, and Nails vitamin, but went into a bit of overdrive at the 1st sign of hair loss. I started doing scalp treatments, oil massages, even tried rice water rinses. I can't say that any of those things made a HUGE difference, but after another 3 or 4 months I noticed baby hairs and regrowth. I saw on another posting about hair loss that some people's hair never grows back the same. Today, my hair is about the same as it was pre-surgery. I have always had fine, thin hair. Having children dealt the biggest blow to my mane and it never recovered. I'm honestly tired of fighting it and recently got a hair topper. Best thing I ever did. I no longer have to worry about strategically styling my hair to lessen the appearance of the thinning. I highly recommend it!

My first thought is that it's allergic reaction to either surgical glue or steri strips. From the pictures, it certainly looks that way. However, we are not doctors. I recommend you call your doctor and let them know. Maybe even share your photos with them.

Telogen Effluvium: a form of TEMPORARY hair loss associated with a stressful event, shock or trauma. It's caused by a disruption in the growth cycle of hair and usually happens around 3-6 months after surgery. It is normal it is temporary there is very little you can do to prevent or reduce the amount of hair loss There are some schools of thought that you can mitigate it by taking hair supplements BEFORE surgery. I've seen stories where people claim that they have been able to avoid it. I can only speak from experience. I took hair supplements for months before surgery, but that still didn't stop me from having a lot of hair loss after surgery.

The only thing I used on my scars was BioOil. I wasn't concerned with scars. I figured they would pale in comparison with my stretch marks, but I did want the skin as supple as possible and BioOil does that for me. I still use it...All Over! But, if you ARE concerned with scars, I occasionally work with burn patients and we recommend silicone sheets or strips for their burns. Here's a link on Amazon, but any brand will do: Aroamas Professional Silicone Scar Sheets