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I recently tried the Celebrate Multi-Vitamins - HUGE mistake for me. I had horrible stomach issues, gas, and diarrhea all day. Then I read the ingredients - first two are both sugar alcohols! Some people are more sensitive to sugar alcohols than others, but these vitamins CLEARLY did a number on my system - instantaneously! I have switched back to a Target (Up&Up Brand) multi-vitamin/mineral - it is in gummy form, and it works great for me! I am not switching again after the Celebrate episode... But you will need to try things out for yourself. In my support group, everybody has had a different exerience with the vitamins - it all boils down to what your body will or will not tolerate. Most of the Bariatric companies offer free samples if you email them - it is a great way to try them before making a big investment.

The best Protein,hands-down, are from the Inspire line from Bariatric Eating. Online orders are backed up right now, but they are worth the wait. Your body has more than enough calories stored--you don't need to worry about that. Of primary concern is hydration, and it seems as though you have that covered well. Of secondary concern are nutrients---and you will build up to getting those in. For now, it really is important to find a protein source you can tolerate, and which is within your surgeon's guidelines. As for Vitamin, I'd suggest a good-quality bariatric vitamin--there are Vitamins made specifically to meet the needs of those who are banded. Some are chewable, and others are capsules. I can't tolerate pressed tablets/pills, but have no trouble with capsules, because they dissolve before moving through the stoma.

Yes! My son was 5.5 months when I had surgery. Bariatric surgeon and nutritionist both said I'd have to ween him since I would not be able to breastfeed after surgery. I've always had a very average milk supply - not low but definitely not plentiful, just enough -- so I was worried. However, my son's pediatrician said even with a very restricted-calorie diet as long as I was drinking enough water the breastfeeding would not be negatively affected. And she was right!! I've been able to continue fully breastfeeding my son who is now 9 months old. Of course at 6 months we started introducing solid foods and his nursing has decreased some as a result. But he's still getting what he needs. To be sure, I rented a hospital grade baby scale before surgery. I measured exactly what my son was eating at each feed. Then a few weeks after surgery I used the scale to check in again. As long as I am hydrated, my supply stays the same. No need for me to eat extra calories, just stay fully hydrated. I also hope the nursing provides a little extra calorie burn each day so I'm reluctant to finally give it up. I cannot speak to the fat composition of the milk as I imagine that has changed now that I eat so differently. But my son is gaining weight normally. I want to share my experience because there is ALOT of misinformation out there. These surgeons are not lactation experts and frankly they're often just wrong about the impact of weight loss surgery on breastfeeding. Oh one more thing!! The anesthesiologist said once you are awake from surgery, the meds are low enough in your system that you don't actually need to pump and dump from that point forward. People still always pump and dump for 24 hours as a precaution, but if you read the studies the evidence for that need just isn't there. That said I felt like such crap in the hospital for the first 24 hours that having my son come to nurse did not seem like a good idea. Pumping wasn't fun either but you do what you must. Good luck!! Let us know how it goes!!

I'm sitting here holding in the tears, the fears, and the upset. I'm sorry to dump this out here, but I need to let it go, and hopefully gain some wisdom from those of you who have been here. The good part - I saw my primary today and presented him with a nice little worksheet I'd done showing my previously failed weight loss attempts, co-morbidity factors in addition to my 46 BMI, my questions, my concerns, my choice of the lap band and the surgeon to perform it. He looked it all over and said I made a good choice for a surgeon for me - that was nice to hear. It's good to know my primary respects him in the field. Now, the bad part - He doesn't think the band is worth it for me. He admits that he's not overly experienced with band patients, but he does have RNY bariatric patients. He said he's read a lot of literature on the band (so have I!!!) but just doesn't think it's going to be what I need because portion control isn't my problem. He wants me to go with the RNY because he's seen it work fast in his other patients. I feel like I just got kicked in the face - even if it was done politely. I've put so much time into researching, reading, and educating myself about the band. I have spent probably 25 hours in the last week reading and learning all I could find. I felt like this would be the right choice for me for all the following reasons: 1. I don't really want my guts re-routed (God made them this way for a reason) 2. There's so much less risk, and with 2 kids I can't afford to have major problems - especially not death 3. It's reversible *if* there was a problem 4. Easier recovery and less hospital time 5. The band wouldn't require me to be on special Vitamins, etc. for the rest of my life (what happens if I lose insurance?!? then what?!?) 6. So many people have found success with the band it gives me hope Are we seeing a pattern here? I really don't want the RNY, for so many reasons. And yet, this is what my primary wants for me. I'm scared, I'm confused, and I'm heartbroken. I did get the referral to the surgeon and I will of course discuss all this with him, but - pardon my trucker mouth - but WHAT THE F*$#?!? Have any of you gone through this? Any sage words of wisdom? Thoughts? I'm sorry to have dumped all this, I just really need some support through this tough night. Thanks for listening El

I really can't complain about my primary.. he's really been an excellent Dr. to me for many years (and he's super test happy - checks EVERYTHING). I think perhaps he's simply ignorant to enough information about the procedure. For the last couple years he has suggested WLS to me, but always the RNY of course. I just can not, and will not do that. I think it's a wonderful thing for people who are comfortable with it - I simply, am not. He didn't give me a hard time or anything, just really is set that he doesn't believe in the band from the literature he's read. He did give me the referral to the surgeon with no complaints, and he is pleased that I want to take control of my weight. Maybe I can be the patient to enlighten him and open him up to a new idea. I *BELIEVE* with all that I have inside of me that this is the right choice for my life. I *KNOW* in my heart of hearts I will succeed.. and then he'll have to see it for what it is. I'll be the proof, sans pudding ::grin:: I am determined to do this, one way or another. Luckily, the surgeon I'll be seeing is a good one, and he's also the only one in my HMO plan that does the band. I've checked him out pretty well, no complaints/malpractice/reprimands on his record. He's actually highly regarded and the head of the bariatric program through my HMO. That certainly makes me feel better. It was hard getting shot down today, but you all have succeeded in lifting my spirits and re-enforcing that this is the right choice in my mind. Thank you. And again, I think my Dr. is simply ignorant to the potential - I'll show him! El

I have been seeing the GI and he did the endoscopy and told me to drink boost and go to the Bariatric dr. I went to 3 ERs and got fluids and sent home and told to see GI or Bariatric dr.

Keep pushing. Every. Single. Day. You clearly need urgent help and it makes me very sad you are not getting help quickly. A feeding tube (J-tube) might be needed to get you some nutrition and I am truly surprised no one seems to have discussed this with you. If you are not getting help, keep going to the ER. Follow up with the bariatric specialist, but you might need a GI specialist for the feeding tube. They are temporary and “easy” to put in/take out. Hope you feel better soon! 💕

Feeling helpless just got a call from my surgeons office saying bariatric surgery is not covered by my insurance! I'm so depressed right now when i first had my consult they called for benefits stating i had 85% coverage now they're saying i have no coverage i just want to cry! [emoji24]

After the surgery, I developed a serious problem with constipation. I tried several things to resolve the problem including Probiotics, Metamucil, and laxatives; without success. The only thing that was effective was using glycerin suppositories. I just couldn’t accept inserting a suppository up my rectum every three days for the rest of my life as a viable solution. This was a serious problem. Then almost by accident I stumbled on a simple solution. I found that eating an apple or two each night before I went to bed corrected the problem. But it was important to also eat the skin of the apple. I have followed this regiment for the past 10 months and no problems. My mother who did not have surgery also suffers from this type of problem. I suggested she eat an apple each night before bed. But she says she can't because she has false teeth and the skin gets stuck. I was at my monthly bariatric surgery support group meeting yesterday and another person said they experienced the same problem because of her false teeth. She wanted to know if I had any solution. I thought about it and decided that perhaps one could blend the apple. I experimented today. I cut the core out of the apple and blended it with the skin to the consistency of apple sauce in my Ninja blender. I soon discovered that I needed to add a little liquid to make it blend properly - about a quarter or half cup of (no-sugar) apple juice. It seems like it might work. But since I still have my teeth, I am not able to perform a complete test. So if you suffer from constipation and if you have false teeth and are up to an experiment - try blending an apple a day with the skin (but not the core) and let me know (1) does this type of apple sauce get stuck in your teeth and (2) does it solve your constipation problem.

I haven't had surgery yet but I have already experienced this type of negativity. One friend keeps comparing it to plastic surgery. Even though I tried to explain that her breast enlargement was not the same as cutting out part of my stomach so that I save my own life. My best friend, who is also obese, said, "But! Then I'll be the fat friend!" Talk about a painful thing to say. Assorted other people simply begin a Litany of all the people they seem to know who have died from bariatric surgery. If you listen to the stories people tell you it would seem that only one in ten people survive surgery. I've been tempted to write a research paper looking at how when you're fat you're criticized for being fat. But then if you take Extreme Measures to fix an extreme problem people criticize that as well. I lost a hundred pounds during college the "natural way." That previous experience has somewhat prepared me for how the world changes it's reaction to me based on my body. But it's still difficult.

Some women turn into Fertile Myrtle after bariatric surgery and significant weight loss. Here is the pregnancy forum: http://www.bariatricpal.com/forum/427-pregnancy-with-gastric-sleeve-surgery/

Good morning Ladies, Nice to see this thread...when I am banded I think I'll still be in the 100 lbs to lose class. I started working out again because I want to be healthier when I get my band (hopefully soon), and to get an exercise habit so I won't stop after I get my band. You have given me renewed hope for reaching my goal...thank you all so much!

Book Review - Alex Brecher's The BIG Book on Bariatric Surgery by joatsaint I just recently bought Alex Brecher's book - The BIG Book on Bariatric Surgery. You maybe asking, "Randy (by the way, my real name is Randy), you're almost 3 years post-op, why are you still reading weight loss surgery success books?" Go ahead, ask me... I'll wait. :-) (insert the theme song from Jeopardy)...... Okay, here's the answer. Years ago, I was listening to and still listen to a great motivational speaker - Zig Zigglar. He said champions never stop training and learning. Even after Micheal Jordan was at the pinnacle of his success, he still trained like he was a rookie. Even though the workouts were grueling and he didn't like it, he still met with a trainer that pushed him to his limits on every workout. Champions in any area, read and reread articles, books, listen to audio books, and watch video on being a success in their field. I know I don't know everything there is to know about successful WLS. And by continually reading, I remind myself (I have the attention span of a gnat!) of the things I need to do to maintain my WLS success. Sometimes it's just a reminder and sometimes I learn something new that I can apply to my life. So, on to Alex Brecher's book - The BIG Book on Bariatric Surgery: Living Your Best Life After Weight Loss Surgery My favorite quote from the book: "From recovering from surgery to losing the extra pounds to keeping them off, weight loss surgery is a part of your life forever. The path to losing weight and keeping it off can be challenging at times, but the rewards can be worth the investment many times over." You need to know up front, this book is not about choosing the right weight loss surgery for you. It’s great resource if you want to know what to expect life will be like after weight loss surgery. I found the book well written and very informative. The book's style is such that it doesn't assume that you know everything already, and is easy to understand. The most important part to me was the emphasis on the importance of lifestyle changes. Weight loss surgery is not a set and forget procedure. WLS success is a continuing process that requires active participation from the patient. Alex doesn't pull any punches in describing how hard WLS can be. I know! Been there, done that! Had 80% of my stomach removed and I didnt' even get a T-shirt! You don’t just wake up after surgery and are magically thin! For months after my sleeve surgery, I had trouble steadily losing the weight. I'd have stalls and get discouraged, or worse, I'd gain a pound or two and freak out. So I especially like emphasis on taking a long-term view of the surgery and life. Alex reminds the reader that successful WLS is not all about the scale. The book is a great resource for information about: discussing diet exercise mental toughness success factors that contribute to the long term weight loss surgery success setting goals dealing with friends and family members who may or may not be supportive eating right setting realistic expectations for your weight loss goal I walked away with new ideas on everyday things, like scheduling my meals and supplements, getting in enough protein without getting too bored with eating the same old things again and again, and making meals that both my friends will like and that I can eat – so I don’t have to worry about social events! Overall, I found it full of useful/practical information and even some funny parts. Well-written and easy to read, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend The BIG Book on Bariatric Surgery to anyone considering weight loss surgery, as well as to anyone who has had any type of bariatric surgery. http://www.bariatricpal.com/page/books/recommended.html

Have you tried putting the bariatric chewables in yogurt ( crush them) or blend them with a protein drink?

I was sleeved 10/27. My doc had me start my Vitamins about 2 1/2 weeks post op. I am taking the Bariatric Advantage capsules. I am able to swallow them (they are a little big). I have never been able to swallow pills no matter what size they were. It did take me a few days to figure out what time of day was best for me to take them. I was doing after Breakfast and dinner but found I was waking up in the middle of the night tasting them. yuck!! So now I take them after breakfast and lunch, I find if I take them when there is something in my tummy then all is good. I know there will be people who will have advice for you. I have seen many who have helped so much on here. I just wanted to let you know what worked for me. Hang in there as they days go by it will be easier for your to get your Protein an Water in.

Hello, I am in the process of scheduling bariatric surgery. I had to do an at home sleep study which returned confirmed sleep apnea. I was requested to meet with a pulmonologist which I did. He put ina request for a CPAP machine but said there are delays getting them at the current moment so it could be months. Could this delay my surgery? I know what the CPAP machine is for, but do you need to be on it for a specific time ahead off surgery? I was really hoping to schedule surgery following my blood panel and EKG next week. Thank you!

Have them check your gall bladder. I have read many posts about pain in that area being the gall bladder. Symptoms of a leak are: Fever, rapid heartbeat, sever stomach pain, vomitinmg According to my surgeon, after 14 days you have a less than 1% chance of a leak. I had a VERY BAD experience NOT going to the hospital where my bariatric surgeon is based. I know you are in pain, but you have to make the trip. It's amazing how LITTLE regular ER doctors know about bariatrics!!! Good Luck and it will get better!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is nerve-wracking, but I see I am not alone!.....I'm just over 40 also and my insurance is requiring 6-months doctor supervised dieting....and of course they have not said what weight they will go by. I don't have my first phone consult with the insurance's bariatric nurse for 3 weeks. Hopefully I can find someone on here that went through that with the insurance I have. Good luck to everyone!

The following services are not covered: Weight loss programs whether or not they are under medical supervision. Weight loss programs for medical reasons are also excluded. Let me start off with, I am not an expert either. Now, the exclusion listed above is not for lap band. The above exclusion is strictly for a weight loss program that would include, a physician followed diet plan, prescribed diet pill, weight watchers, and others like this. You need to look for an exclusion in your policy under bariatric surgery. It should tell you there if it is a "direct exclusion" or covered if proven to be a medical neccessity. You should appeal this immediatly. Also, you may want to check with the surgeons office, if they listed morbid obesity as the primary diagnosis, there is a good chance it was kicked back. Most insurance companies follow the medicare guideline as far as the approval for a medical neccessary surgery. Medicare at this time states that your primary diagnosis cannot be morbid obesity. It has to be a co-morbidity and then the surgeons office can follow with a morbid obesity diagnosis. The key to this is discussing it with the business office of the surgeon. Alot of the time they can resubmit correctly and you will not need to fight an appeal.

If you had bariatric surgery your anesthesiologist ABSOLUTELY needs to know. They have to intubate you for surgery and sometimes insert oral or nasogastric tubes while you are under anesthesia. If they don't know you had bariatric surgery and insert one of them they could seriously hurt you. Honestly it "probably" won't make a difference in regards to your surgeon, but that's assuming that nothing goes wrong (which while incredibly likely for something serious to happen during a breast implant surgery, is still possible). But if you're not willing to disclose everything with your anesthesiologist you probably shouldn't be having surgery. (I'll note that it's very unlikely they would use an OG/NG tube for a breast implant exchange, but the point is there are viable scenarios where you could get seriously hurt by not disclosing something as significant as bariatric surgery)

Bariatric pal please fix the metric ticker it can not calculate weight loss it is using pounds when it tells you how many kgs you have lost lol please fix so us non Americans can use it :-) many thanks

If you are able to drink Water I suggest what I use which is Bariatric Choice liquid Protein fruit drink concentrate, its liquid that you pour into water. The berry tastes good and if its too sweet u can add more water. Also u can mix it with mio drops. I couldnt handle the Protein shakes because of the after taste and smell. The liquid reminds me of jolly ranchers or kool aid. Amazon has a few flavors you can choose. Good luck! Sent from my SM-G920P using the BariatricPal App Oh also each liquid packet is 15 grams of protein! Sent from my SM-G920P using the BariatricPal App

Bariatric Advantage banana is yummy. I'd imagine any of their flavors are good. Dawnie_doo

Most common after bariatric surgery. Had lapband surgery 10/12/16

JC, Dr. Szomstein is my dr. too! I know it's going to take a long time. I started in July and don't expect surgery till Dec 2003 or Jan 2004. I originally went to US Bariatrics at Holy Cross, but they only want to talk me into RNY. I have about 85 pounds to loose and I don't care if it takes me 2 years to loose it (US Bariatric's big plug for RNY is that you loose it faster and that it's the "gold standard"!) 4-5 lbs a month is fine with me and a less risky, reversible (if necessary) procedure is why I want the band!!!!! Oh Well....in the mean time, I'm waiting! Keep in touch and GO DOLPHINS! Marsha