Search the Community

Wonder why all the doctors seem to have different pre-op diet. Mine said two liquid meal replacements and one lean protein meal, either chicken or fish and some veggies.

Hi Moe, Glad to hear that all went well! Since you shared your story, I will share mine here as well. I went in at 6am as well. The hospital I went to do the band all the time, so they had all the right equipment ready for me. The IV was painless and I don't remember anything after they gave me the versed until I was in my room. My surgery took 3 hours due to a previous abdominal surgery. He had to cut around scar tissue, but at least he was still able to do it with the lap version. I finally got out of bed around 3pm. It took me about that long to wake up. They had me on morphine, but asked to switch because it knocks me out too much. I was given fenergyn, but stopped after 2 doses. I did have severe back and shoulder pain. I could not lay down in the bed because of this. I ended up walking every 1/2 hour during the night. I did have a barium swallow so they could see the position of the band and it was fine, so they started me on Water and pudding. I really could not eat very much. Yesterday I came home by noon and other than the pain in my shoulder and back, I am ok. I just cannot seem to pass any of this gas! I have tried eating and drinking the Protein, but I am just not able to get much in me. I try to wait 1/2 hour after drinking before eating, but I am just not feeling like it. I guess that is a good thing! My surgeon put in 2cc into the band, so I am sure it is me getting used to this. I am glad that I have it already so I am on my way. Gilta

How about protein drinks, do you use the protein powder mixed with water or skim milk? You get about 45 grms of protein in one drink. Gladiator is a decent protein to use.

If you want to lose weight, there is no option other than to change your lifestyle. You can do it by pure will-power or you can get surgery to help you. But there is no other way to lose weight and, even harder, to keep it off. So if changing your lifestyle worries you, stay the size you are! But in fact, they aren't that hard! Personally I eat all food groups, just not much of them. While losing, I made healthy choices about 80% of the time. Probably most people make a few mistakes while learning to eat with the band and bring a few mouthfuls of food back up, but it only happens to me maybe once a month, if that. It was a bit more often at first but still quite rare, And it is always because I ate too fast. It's not like being ill and vomiting. The food comes back from above the band so there is no nasty stomach acid or part- digested food. I have never had a long or painful episode.

I can't bare the thought either. I've been sticking to hummus, yogurt, cottage cheese, refried beans and mashed regular and sweet potatoes. If I need more protein I'll keep drinking shakes. A week is too short to resort to blended meat :-)

You should be feeling fine, but the meal might be tricky. I would have a protein shake before you go, drink lots of water and hope they have soup as an appetizer.

Today marks 3 weeks since my surgery. I never meant to be so silent, but between trying to recover and getting back to life as usual (Mom's don't get sick days) I've been too tired to do much writing or recording. Week 1 was probably the hardest. I was still in pain - both from the surgery and my back due to sleeping in ungodly positions. I was exhausted because I wasn't sleeping through the night yet and I was back to work by Day 6. By day 8, it was pretty much back to business as usual - with the exception of having to cook for the kids and trying not to have to carry the baby. During this time my stomach was doing fine, but I was getting very tired of broths. I was actually looking forward to my first protein shake. The only thing I was having trouble with (and honestly still am) was taking my meds. By the time I'd get most of them down I'd feel overfilled from the water. This isn't so great when you're supposed to be taking 12 multi-vitamins and 12 calcium pills - in addition to Tylenol and 2 prescriptions - every day. Week 2 was definitely better and I started experimenting with different soups. I'll admit - I splurged and indulged in a couple of cream soups and I'm so glad I did. They helped break up the monotony of protein shakes and chicken bullion. I also transitioned from using Almond milk to using regular milk in my shakes. The good news is - I can still tolerate the milk. A lot of people who have this surgery come out lactose intolerant to some degree on the other side. For some it's temporary and for others it seems to last for the long-term. This makes me happy because it gives me some extra fat (which DS patients need) and protein with my shakes. I'll still use Almond milk (unsweetened plain or vanilla) if it's available, but it's nice to have an alternative when we run out. The pain continued to lessen and, the best part, I got to sleep in bed! I started off using a pregnancy pillow I had leftover from last year but slowly graduated down to my normal pillows. Unfortunately, I can still only lay on my right side or on my back and both positions result in me waking up in pain for one reason or another. I've also been having a hard time sleeping through the night. My normal routine seems to be that I wake up somewhere between 12am and 2am and then stay awake for at least 30 minutes (sometimes longer). This really sucks when you have to be up for the day at 4:30am AND are caffeine free. My major accomplishment for this past week is getting back into the habit of walking Oliver to school. Prior to this week, I honestly didn't feel physically up to the 1.5mi round-trip. I might have been braver, except I have to be sure I'm back by the end of my lunch - which means my walk back has to be done in less than 20 minutes. So on Tuesday I sucked it up and took the plunge. I'm happy to say I was able to do it and even went back for round 2, when Ray walked with me to go pick him up. THAT was probably a bit much - but I'm still proud I did it and hope it starts getting easier soon. Aside from all of that - I do have a few other triumphs to celebrate. The first is that, for the first time since I got pregnant with Oliver, I'm below 300lbs. I've lost a total of 17lbs since surgery and a grand total of 53 since I first saw Dr. Srikanth back in July. I'm definitely proud of myself, but also frustrated. Why? Well, my pants still fit. While that's not necessarily a bad thing - I mean I NEED to wear pants - I also don't feel like there's been that big of a 'transformation' for someone that's lost over 50lbs. Then, I put on one of my hubby's t-shirts and saw a bit of what was to come. Let me explain - Hubby's t-shirts are all either 3x or 4x. I've tried wearing them before, and while I fit into a 3-4x in women's clothing, his shirts were too tight on my tummy. In order to wear them, I'd have to try and stretch them out - and even then I'd look a few months pregnant. Well yesterday, in a rush to get out the door on time, I decided to grab one of his t-shirts since I'd just be driving Oliver to school. Much to my surprise, the shirt fit - not only fit, but was roomy and comfortable. So obviously, my body IS changing - even if it's not immediately obvious when I look in the mirror or put my clothes on. I think that I'll be taking some measurements to commemorate the 1 month mark so I'll be able to keep better track of the inches I'm losing - and where. I can honestly say that, so far, there hasn't been any buyer's remorse. I'm glad I took charge of my life and am excited to see what the next several month have in store for me. Actually - in store for US. Ray's surgery countdown is down to 7 days and then he'll be joining me on the Dark Side. Can't wait until we're walking this path together - both literally and figuratively.

I am almost 2 months out and just had my first little JIF single cups with some apple slices and, at least for me, it went down fine! I know it isn't the healthiest thing to have so I definitely don't plan to eat it more than a couple times a month maybe, but luckily I have no issues with it! I am going to start adding the powdered Peanut Butter to my Protein shake for some variety and added protein count

I am 15 days out, surgery was 10/31. I am starting to feel hungry throughout the day. Protein shakes are so gross to me now I can barely get a whole one down a day. They are too sweet and I have tried several different brands. I am worried that I am not getting enough. I am also worried that my hunger is back already and will throw a monkey wrench in the progress I have made and any future progress as well. Help! I have not been cleared for soft pureed foods yet but have tried an egg and some mashed potatoes. My stomach seems to do okay with them. I stop when I start to feel full and feel quite satisfied and the hunger goes away pretty much the rest of the day. Is this normal?

I never heard of anything like this. And why would you need to bring a note to take protein shakes on the plane? Just pack the powder in your carry on and buy water or milk to mix it with in the airport. That's what I did when I flew to/from San Diego to get sleeved in Mexico.

Well in the last week or so I have been trying to push myself alittle more. Since it is starting to get nice outside, I started going for a bike ride when I get home from work at 9:45pm. I try to ride for at least 30-45 minutes depending on the endurance I have left from working all day. I have also started to do more lifting and stretching on job #2. I work at the Dollar General at night so lifting boxes and such are easy to get away with without looking like I am exercising on the job. LOL I have also started buying protein bars and cheese sticks for quick healthy snacks during the day. As far as meals are concerned...my kids get free lunches at school so I don't pack for them. I am not home at night and my husband tries to cook good foods, 75% success (LOL). I pick out the healthy stuff for lunch the next day and put everything else away or throw it away (shhh, dont tell him that!:tt1:) I could really use some quick workout ideas for break times at work. I get 2, 15 minute breaks during job #1 and 1 thirty minute break on job #2. Like I said, I get home around 9:45 at night and by then I am just soooo tired, but I still try to push myself along in doing something. A few quick meal ideas would be great too.

I saw my surgeon today and he said I have everything in order for getting approved. Said I should know in a week or so and be set for surgery within 3 weeks. I am excited.:scared2: I only have to do two days of liquid and lose 3 pounds before surgery. However, I am ready to get started. I need some ideas of things others did that helped get prepared. I stopped drinking pop 10 days ago - not a bad as I thought it might be. I have a Protein powder I like (I am allergic to dairy so I have found a soy product with no carbs, one gram of fat and 24 grams of protein). I have found I like it ok with just Water and Crystal Light. I plan to start having Protein Powder drink for Breakfast and lunch and do a Lean Cuisine for dinner. I want to have my protein stores built up and my liver leaner by losing weight before I face the surgery. I have started on liquid Vitamins, Calcium, etc. I plan on seeing my docotr to find out what meds he wants me to continue and how to get liquid or can I crush them. I would welcome any other suggests of things that helped other people get prepared and do well in surgery and after. Thanks for your help in this. Debra:thumbup:

I am unable to see profiles and-or signatures from the mobile app. Would you mind to post your blog address, pretty please;) I ask doing the premier protein shakes right now, but I feline I need to mix it up so my body doesn't get used to the same old same old;) looking forward to reading your reviews!!

A lot of times when I feel like eating in the evening I will have a hot cup of tea. Another thing I had a lot of when I was first starting out was a CarbMaster yogurt from Ralphs/Krogers grocery. I like them because they are only 60 calories and 8 grams of protein. I also like sugarfree puddings.

Well, I have heard the body can't absorb more than 25 grams at once, and you just pee out the rest. I would think that over 100 grams a day would be too much. too much Protein is supposed to be hard on the kidneys.

thanks.. i enjoyed my lunch. i like the way you cook your carrot strips,etc.i must try that for myself when i can eat them. my tummy is rumbling now. i might go and make a protein shake i think. g'night. judy

Hi all. Just to update my progress, I spent the better part of 5-hours at Swedish Hospital yesterday (Seattle, WA) going through various introductions to team member, procedures, an EKG, psychiatric evaluation, photos & body measurements, nutritionists & meeting with the doctor (Dr. McMahon). I was impressed with the level of sincerity & knowledge of everyone present. My first question to the doctor was about Medicare supporting/paying for vertical sleeve surgery and he told me that Medicare does not support it. I even asked if I could participate in a study group (if one was available) and again he said the hospital had no such group & Medicare would not support it. He went on to say that it may be a long time coming before Medicare does pay for VSG, but as of today, they won't. So, my choices for WLS are whittled down to two options: Lap-Band & Roux-en-Y. After looking over all my medical records, he recommended the RNY procedure for me. I said I had my heart set on VSG surgery, but that I would consider the Lap-Band (Plan: , mostly because it appeared to be the simplest & less invasive. He stated that the RNY procedure is the "Gold Standard" of weight loss surgery & would be the best for me due to my Type-II diabetes & other health problems (sleep apnea, high blood pressure, etc.). Then I met with one of the head nurses & she quite emphatic about the fact that unless my blood sugar levels were not at 150 or lower for a 2-week period (documented) prior to WLS, the doctor would not operate. My blood test prior to going to the hospital was 176, so needless to say, I'm bummed! Still have to go back for additional lab tests and an endoscopy to be performed by Dr. McMahon (June 7).

This is tough. I had a lapband for 6 years. I think it's a great tool IF you look at it as a short term fix - say like a gastric balloon, only with more invasive (but quick & easy) installation. At the same time, I'd have to be on death's door before I would consider RNY, or have it be the only option left. I'd easily have done DS over it, though DS is far from my first choice. I assume self pay for the procedure you want (even out of country) is not an option? Perhaps with financing? While I think Medicare is right not to cover the sleeve (not trying to be controversial, that's just MHO), I also understand that it can be frustrating not to get the coverage you want. I'd ask about a private plan that would cover it, but really - self paying the procedure would be the cheaper option. Are you currently pursuing your pre-op requirements in hopes that it will be covered? Or are you just getting the generic stuff out of the way, so that when the time comes you can have a(ny) procedure?

Ok so I went online and ordered from MyBariatricPantry.com I bought their sample pack and the drinks are pretty good, for protein drinks that is. However, are the protein drinks supposed to be mostly clear and very thin??? I know its a liquid diet I was just wondering because the other protein shakes I have are much thicker. Am I doing this right?

I am a 44 yo registered nurse who is a Director of Quality in a small hospital in NWO. I have researched all my options. Orginally I wanted the VSG but now I really feel that the gastric plication is the tool I need to increase my chance of losing weight and keeping it off. I like that it is revisable and is not associated with malabsorption . I made my decision after two years of lurking on weight loss sites and trying various diets, personal training and pills. I would lose 15 and gain 20. I have watched my ability to snorkel and walk on vacation turn into shortness of breath and fatigue. I walk up the stairs to beat of 132 pulse. This has improved with cardio at the gym (120's ) I have beat myself up. Refused to go out with my husbands friends because they are thin and I am embarassed for my husband. Really I have spent my time making other people happy and not myself necessarily. Weight loss will not make me beautiful ( It is what is inside that counts). It will not make me successful as I feel that I am succesful professionally regardless of my weight. Weight loss will increase my energy and my overall health. My fears are complications related to the surgery. I am having my consultation appointment by phone with Dr. Brad Watkins from Cincinnati Weight Loss on Sept 7, 2011. I am 5 ft 3 inches and 216.5 today. This is a 38.4 BMI . So far I dont have high blood pressure or diabetes. I dont want them either. I will keep you posted:)

<Insert "carry on my wayward son...they'll be peace when you are done"..Points to the SPN fandom> Today marks 3 months and 1 week since I had VGS in Mexico. I'm still learning to use this site so I never knew there was a blog option till now. I've been fairly quite on my other social media feeds about my surgery for a multitude of personal reasons. But here feels safer, and well, none of my family/friends/acquaintances are here so... I've spent the majority of my life being a yo-yo dieter. While I have always loved my body just as it was, yes, even when I was morbidly obese (it's strange to say "was"), I was never that healthy chubby chick. I've been on BP meds since I was 30yrs old, battle my cholesterol & have a history of heart disease on both sides of the family. My dad had his first heart attack at 40 and I was 38 when I had the surgery. I still question myself every day if I did the right thing. I'm 30+ lbs down in 3 months, my blood pressure is in normal ranges for the first time in years and my dr is thrilled with my progress. But the negative committee that meets in my head tells me "this isn't going to work...just like everything else" and "you'll just gain it all back because that's what you do" and the worst "Why did you spend so much money on yourself you selfish pig." Yeah...they're a real piece of work, that committee. We'll be paying off my surgery for years. Was it worth it? i hope so. My partner tells me it was to him...and he likes to remind me that it's cheaper than the cost of a funeral. Morbid, yes, but it makes sense. My brain still cant accept it..I'm down 30lbs, 4 pants sizes, Lots of inches and still I don't "see" it. I can see it some days in what I wear...in my rings being looser...in the way I can do little things like cross my legs where I couldn't before. But it's like there is a disconnect with my brain in accepting all of this as truth or as real and definitely as sustainable. Every time the scale goes up, even when it's a fraction of a lb, I think "this is it..this is where this stops and I gain it all back". Every time I "fail" and give in to temptation and eat something that isn't 100% on diet, I think "this is where I give up and revert to bad habits" (though admittedly, I eat pretty well most of the time, even before surgery). Every time I'm too tired to get on the elliptical I think "You wasted all that money for this?" Maybe it will change. I keep trying. I keep going.

I don't know if you guys like the taste but low-fat buttermilk is delicious to me. It has 16 g of Protein for 2 cups.. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G925A using the BariatricPal App

Hi All. So I'm 2.5 weeks post OP and I'm finding this new stomach of mine difficult to navigate to say the least. I drank a protein shake clearly WAY to fast and now I feel horrible (bloated and a little nauseous). Did I stretch my stomach and do damage? I'm very anxious of that happening. Any wisdom you all have would be greatly appreciated!

I was looking into financing options as well. My credit is good except I have too much credit out so I am a risk. If your hospital accepts it, CareCredit is LapBands "choice" for financing. My boyfriend cosigned for me and we were approved for $16,000 (thats what I applied for) even with the tough economy. If you try a personal loan or credit card it will be hard because of the economy and the limits probably wont be very high.

I am guessing you just had surgery within the last couple of weeks. The reality is you simply cannot get it all in until the swelling goes down. You just do the best you can. The good news is, your body has stores of these nutritional elements so if you are not meeting your Protein goals the first several weeks it is no big deal. The most important thing is keeping your fluids up and it sounds like you are doing that, then just do what you can with the rest of your liquids. This is the priority: 1. Water/liquids - 48 to 64 oz will keep you hydrated 2. Protein - minimum of 1 gram for every inch you are tall (it will take a few weeks to begin to meet this daily) 3. Vitamins - these too can come a few weeks later, you have stores in your body 4. Exercise - work your way up by starting with walking until you are cleared You are already doing great with liquids, now just start sipping that protein. By the way, it is best icy cold. Good luck!