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My RNY is scheduled for one week from today. I was all in until a couple weeks ago. I am a person that likes a lot of information so I've been watching a ton of videos and joined a few groups like this one. I know there are always chances of complications but the more I look, the more I'm seeing people that went through them, and people that really regret having it done. So now I'm basically terrified. I know no one can tell me what to do. I'm more or less talking it out myself by listing the pros and cons, but I'd also love to have input from people that have gone through it, especially if they are around the same size and situation as me. I am 5' 7" and my highest weight that I recall was 266. I have lost weight and regained it a thousand times in my life. I started the bariatric program a year and a half ago at 254 but a few months later for family issues I had to drop out. By that point I had lost weight on my own and was confident I could do it myself this time, but of course gained what I'd lost and then some. I started again this past April. I am really in the kick ass mindframe since then and have gotten down to 212 - actually 209.5 as of this morning. I'm again in that frame of mind thinking I've lost 55 on my own, I can lose the next 50 as well. And it is definitely possible, though it would be difficult. Keeping it off even more difficult, though again possible. I really have no major health issues, the primary reason is because I'm tired of being this size and failing constantly at losing it myself. I'm tired of shopping in plus size, tired of being scared about sitting in theater seats or a rollercoaster. Tired of seeing pictures of myself and not recognizing that person. I do have sleep apnea and use a cpap. I had a pre-op scope and they found I have grade B esophigitis, though I have no symptoms and very rarely get heartburn. For that reason I was hesitant to get a sleeve, and so many people that get a sleeve are going back for a revision that I decided gastric bypass was the way to go, and my surgeon agreed. I think if someone could see my future and tell me I wouldn't have any major complications and everything went smoothly, I would not even hesitate to do this. My insurance will cover it, I have the time off work. I feel like I'm mentally prepared to do what needs to be done - but I also know many people feel that way but underestimate exactly how it'll go. I feel like I have a pretty good pain tolerance and can get though that ok. Things I'm nervous about: major complications, of course. Getting in enough water and protein in the small amounts you can take in at a time (although I know it can be done). Food aversions - I'm a fairly picky person anyway and you read about people that can't eat anything without feeling sick, even a long time after surgery. Future pain and inability to take ibuprofen - I am allergic to Tylenol and get hives so I'm kind of out of options in the future. I have told a few people because I don't want the negativity ahead of time. Some are jealous and wish their insurance covered it and think I'm crazy to have second thoughts. Some have said look at how well I've done on my own, I can do this on my own without surgery. My husband says he'll support me but he also says he thinks I look great now and don't need it. He's gone to a couple classes with me and was visibly horrified when shown a video of the surgery, and I think he's more scared than he lets on. I have 2 daughters 16 and 21 that are very much momma's girls - one is nervous for the surgery, the other says 'you do you, dawg', lol. Both of them struggle with depression and I would be gutted if something happened to me because I'm not sure they'd handle it well. This is turning into a novel, I'm sorry. I had 2 women that have gone through it say no way would they go through having their guts surgically rearranged for just 45 pounds. And then I see others on here roughly my size that are happy as hell they went through it. And again, I know no one can tell me what to do. I am just trying to get as much info as possible. I don't necessarily buy the whole "my cousin had this surgery and these horrible things happened" stuff, or even "my cousin had this surgery, never had any complications and is thrilled with it" - but when I hear it directly from the people that went through it, it carries more weight. Thanks if you've gotten this far!!

Hi everyone! Finally checking in after my VSG surgery on the 15th. Surgery went well and there were no complications. Drinking fluids has been harder than I expected, even with tiny sips. They have me taking multiple pills each day (Tylenol, protonix, solace, etc) so it takes a while to be able to get the pills down. I can drink maybe one protein drink per day. Able to stay hydrated but otherwise, it is a chore. Have my follow up appointment next Monday so we will see if they move me to purees/soft foods. Hope everyone is doing well!

Thanks, everyone, for the fantastic recipes! I've been experimenting, and here's a game-changer I discovered: the "Berry Bliss Delight." Blend together 1 cup almond milk, a scoop of vanilla protein powder (I prefer GNC brand), a handful of mixed berries (frozen or fresh), and a dollop of Greek yogurt. It's a burst of flavor, packed with protein, and totally masks the usual supplement taste 🍓🥤💖 see my work info

I’m 12 hours out from surgery. Or at least from having to be at the hospital. Having some protein broth. It’s actually pretty good it’s chicken soup flavored protein powder that you had to hot water. My doctor ok’d it for the pre surgery diet. Luckily my program only requires 2 days of liquid diet before surgery. They used to require the two weeks but claim studies have shown 2 days is enough. Still nervous as I said in my last post because I am high risk because I have kidney failure and heart failure but everyone cleared me for surgery. They do think I will have issues with infection and leaking because I am on chronic steroids. My highest weight was 509 pounds and my weight today is 399 pounds. I am 6 feet tall and my goal weight it ideally 180 but I will be happy at 200

What are y'alls favorite ready to drink protein infused waters, as far as taste? Are they all basically the same as far as taste and nutritional value?

Hi, i'm almost 3 month out, got my Bypass on 1. September 2023, i Had a lot of problems, and a lot of ER Visits, it seems like the Exit of my Pouch narrowed down so much that i couldn't even Drink anymore, they Stretchted it to 1,2cm's the "normal" size should be 3cm, they Already told me i need a Second Surgery and one of my surgeons said that maybe the Doctor who did that did it on purpose so i would "lose weight better!" with a giggle, What an A-Hole. I'm kinda off all things i've read on that Topic, i can't eat any kind of meat or Cheese, it would not sit well and i will Vomit a lot. I Live after 3 Month, Out of Protein Yoghurts and Pudding. I can tolerate Crisp Bread, but again can't do something on it very much, i'm Kinda at a loss Right now, But i Lost in that 3 month's around 40Kilogramms. but i feel pretty bad in General, since i feel like "i will never be able to eat even the Portion sizes i should with bypass".

I'm day 5 post op and have just now started to eat purée. I waited to have one until I got all my protein and cleats in for the day. Liquids are going down so much easier but just noticed I really have to pace myself on the purée. Feels like it gets stuck sorta

I had my taste buds change about 4 days ago (I'm 2 weeks post op). It's awful!! I can't taste sweet spices at the moment, like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect time of year to not be able to taste those things! LOL Also a number of savory things don't taste right anymore... I hear this taste change happens a lot in the 1st year. As for your family, you are going to have to set some firm boundaries there. I know it is hard to do with family, but if you don't set them now it'll only get worse. Just tell her you've had enough and you'll return to it later, then put your plate away... Tell her you get labwork to ensure you are getting enough nutrients, she doesn't need to worry. Your body is different now and your food needs are different. And that what you need most from her is SUPPORT in this new way of life, not encouragement to overeat. Parents have a hard time seeing their children as responsible adults who can care for their own bodies and lives. Sometimes we need to (kindly) remind them we've got this.

Is it just me or has anyone's' taste buds changed? some things don't taste the same and savory things seem sweeter. Also, my parents don't believe e when I say I'm full. My mom is concerned I'm not eating enough. I don't want to go back to the thought of having to clear my plate or over eating.. It's just so very frustrating!

I can't speak to the Unjury brand protein powder specifically, (maybe email the company to explain the warning if you're concerned), but I did find this study of protein powders and heavy metal, which concluded: "The data in the current study suggest that heavy metal exposure via protein powder supplement ingestion does not pose an increased non-carcinogenic risk to human health. Further, no carcinogenic risk was expected from As via ingestion of protein powder supplements. This study demonstrates that health risks of heavy metals in protein powder supplements should be conducted within the context of relevant background exposures and established health based standards instead of the presence of hazardous substances alone." Regarding Prop 65, I stayed at a lovely inn in the central coast of CA a while back. There was an antique fireplace in the lobby that had these beautiful glassy-looking tiles around the hearth . There was a framed sign warning that the glaze on the tiles contained lead, with the Prop 65 warning language about the state of CA knowing it caused cancer. I can only assume this was to stop me from prying off a tile, grinding it into powder, and snorting it, because how else would it be a risk? But the inn did not wish to get sued. I also had a friend who spent $1000 on a special ground quartz to fill her kid's sandbox because bags of regular playground sand have a Prop 65 warning on them. I tried to explain that it's because sand in a sand blaster on a job site can cause lung cancer if you don't wear protective gear such as a particulate respirator, but she was convinced sitting in the sand would cause her child to get a tumor. So, take Prop 65 warnings with a grain of salt (which is probably known in the state of CA to cause cancer).

Congratulations To those that are now post op. Our journey to a new quality of life has began. hoping you are all recovering nicely. 16 days post op and I’m still on liquids. I’ve lost a total of 5 kgs already. I’m struggling to meet the intake of daily protein and fluids. I’m never hungry. I don’t see my surgeon again till 21st Dec.

I have a similar concern. I'm not worried about trace amounts of carcinogens, but the Prop 65 warning that appears on the checkout page on Unjury mentions exposure to lead, which is something else entirely. From what I understand no amount of lead is safe for consumption. I'm not clear how they determine these risks...does the company just add a blanket warning to avoid lawsuits, or do they have actual reason to believe there is lead in their products? It's weird to put that pressure on the customer. I don't want to be a paranoid alarmist, but it's like, why would I buy a food if the grocer is telling me it's poisonous? I wish they explained better or just did whatever they need to do to assure to avoid the risk. I saw this warning after adding Whey Protein Powders to my cart and going to checkout. I guess I'll just avoid that brand?

I am hanging out in the 180s. Down from 280s. I don’t do anything. I never watch calories anymore. I eat whatever I want. I just get full after a few bites. Still no issues. I have never had the constipation, foamies, or nausea that some people seem to get. I drink a ton of water. I have gotten really used to eating the same thing for days at a time. I went to Outback Steakhouse on Monday for dinner. On Tuesday dinner I had leftover Outback Steakhouse. On Wednesday for dinner I had leftover Outback Steakhouse. lol I do find that I am hungry in the middle of the night. I wake up and get a little snack sometimes in the middle of the night that I never used to do before. It seems like my body wants something every 6 hours. It just doesn’t want much. I still struggle to eat enough protein. Carbs are just so delicious. I have zero regrets.

I woke up in recovery hungry. True hungry, not head hungry. I would have even eaten seafood at that point and I hate seafood as a rule. LOL I've maintained that hunger as I've been recovering. I'm just not one of those that lost it. But I am observing my team's rules of only eating 1/4 to 1/3 cup of food at a time, chewed really well, slowly. I know nerves have been cut so messages aren't getting through. I experienced this with my hysterectomy too, it took months for everything to work normally again, my bladder was confused for 6 months. I think they say it can take 3 months for your stomach signals to get back to their new normal. I woke up this morning at 7am starving!! I ate tuna fish. LOL I love that rule about asking if chicken breast will work. I find if I'm hungry a simple, unadorned protein sounds good. If it is head hunger I'm craving chips or chocolate.

Dumping is an interesting phenomenon. I had a good friend about 20 years ago who had an old school bypass and she would dump all the time. She'd sit there with a pack of candy, eat some, breathe through the dumping symptoms, and continue to eat it! This was my first exposure to someone with weight loss surgery. I thought she was insane. She also refused to use protein powders so her hair was brittle and falling out. And she didn't take her vitamins so her calcium was low and she'd get heart palpitations. It scared me off of the surgery for a long time. I didn't want to turn out like her! I'm so glad I learned there are better ways... DS patients aren't supposed to get dumping but I drank too much water too fast once and got all the classic symptoms of dumping, including the bathroom runs. It was VERY unpleasant and I will never do it again! LOL I also had a mushroom soup the other night that turned out to have 33 carbs in it (which I didn't realize until I went to log it). Holy cow I thought I was going to die. Same symptoms. I don't have to imagine what will happen if I try to eat a piece of pie!

I’ve only been doing 2 shakes since my goal is 70g of protein. Otherwise it has been chicken stock with some rosemary salt or water. I had a yogurt last night and definitely hit a wall with that one. My main worry right now is constipation. I’m supposed to take colace twice a day and have only taken a few opioid pills and still nothing since surgery. I might give my team a call today before the weekend hits. Had some decaf hot coffee from Starbucks today to see if that would help and it hasn’t so far.

My surgery date is December 20th as well! My Preop Appointment is November 27th. I start my 2 week liver shrink diet on 12/6. Two weeks of one protein shake for breakfast, one for lunch and a high protein low calorie dinner consisting of 6 oz or less of a nonfried meat and unlimited nonstarchy veggies. Unlimited clear fluids, aiming for at least of 64 ounces per day. Let's do this y'all!

Hi CCat, This is my first day on liquid diet and guess I should've reviewed, again, the sample meal plan. Today I have had 2 cups of sf hot coco this morning, 1 Premier protein drink, 2 single sf popsicles, lunch had 1 cup bone broth, then 1 more protein drink, and now had a cup of bone broth for dinner. AND...now that I look at the sample meal plan I have certainly short changed myself big time. lol. The Kaiser meal plan has approx. 5 to 6 protein shakes daily, jello. **** almighty, no wonder I'm frigg'n starved right now. lol.

Things are still very swollen inside at the moment, so sometimes it can feel like fluid backs up. I'm two weeks out and still get a bloated feeling from drinking fluids sometimes! But the awful twisting pains have eased a lot, now I'm more likely to just get this dull ache. Good luck with the protein drinks, I can get them down now!!

I'm not bad early in the day but by early evening I feel like everything is getting stuck and doesn't want to funnel on through. I'm 3 days post op so just added a protein drink today

Hope everyone is still doing well. I’m actually tolerating liquids well and am not having an issue getting a protein shake for breakfast and one for lunch. I get a bit gurgley with water but end up burping and not vomiting.

Hi everyone! This is my first post on the boards. I had my surgery on 10/23. I'm feeling pretty good but I'm nervous about going back to work. I know I still need to have my protein shakes throughout the day. But I guess I'm just nervous about being tempted by the things people bring in. Going back to work next week so wish me luck!

Glad to hear that you are not left with that forever. I never had clumps of hair coming out but starting at 3 months I had a pretty good amount left on my comb. And I use a wide tooth comb. Never pull or ripped at it even in the past to avoid split ends. Never a brush since it tends to pull out all my curls. Now at almost 8 months out from surgery I notice the hair loss is finally slowing down. I would suggest some trying a wide tooth comb and combing out from the ends up avoiding tugging hairs out at the scalp with a brush. Also washing too often can strip hair of its natural oils and dries out the scalp. Sorry to hear this. Maybe find a good quality protein drink that you can stomach during those times you can't eat? I know most say taking extra supplements don't help with WLS hair loss, but in your case It couldn't hurt. On the bright side, there are a lot of really good, cute short hairstyles out there. I bet you rock it

I never have counted calories at all— I think protein/fluid goals and staying with healthy choices/watching portion sizes are more what my drs want me doing. Im at 8 months with sleeve, and pretty much moving to maintenance and some days i can eat more than others— so best advise already given here is talk to your team.