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Hi, I'm 5 day post op and have ZERO energy. On a clear liquid diet until Tues, complete with a min 60 grams of protein from shakes. I am now able to get 60-70 g protein daily and drinking all the water I can tolerate.. I also have 1/2 cup diluted 100% grape juice to get some carbs. Is it normal to be WIPED OUT even after naps and the daily recommended protein and water?? I almost feel weak like I have the flu but know I don't.

Agree. The texture is thicker with protein powder in oatmeal, pancakes, and cookies. Not necessarily bad (in fact, it helps when too much water is added to oatmeal), just different.

I had a long 8 months to wait for this surgery and thought I was very prepared. I read this forum from back to front. 20 years worth of problems and advice. I didn't know it all though, I didn't know that hormones live in fat cells and when we loose a lot of weight quickly we had all these hormones rushing around our bodies like puberty on steroids. I was having a tough time of it with nausea and vomiting too. I cried for a week and did not know why. I asked for help on here and got it. The answer, too many hormones at a time when I was overwhelmed with trying to do everything right. I think you need anti nausea medication. So, You are not alone. Its normal to feel like you are. As you have realised its big surgery and now you have to get to grips with it, there is no going back. IT WILL GET BETTER. You wont have to chew food like this forever, it just helps your tiny stomach digest your food so that you get the nutrients from it. Your headaches could be from dehydration, its tough to get all the liquids and food in early on, it feels like it will never get better but it does. Just do your very best everyday to get your liquid and protein onboard. That way you will improve every day and doing that will improve your mental health a little Please seek counselling for your eating disorders, hopefully you can find one who understands bariatrics too. OR talk to us on here, you can rage, cry and get these feeling off your chest and it may help a little bit. We don't mind, the ones before us did the same for us. You are not alone

There are "natural" protein powders, i. e. no flavor was added. However, adding a protein powder will always alter the texture of your foods. Also every protein powder has a certain taste and/or aftertaste. Try to get your hands on different samples and choose from there. Protein powders made of more than one components are also available with a different texture and taste. Also try different brands.

I'm sorry about your experience. I'm surprised Ramstein Air Base didn't have a bariatric team. I'm working with a team at an Army base here in Colorado and wasn't even given the option for an off-base provider for this procedure despite all my medical being done by civilian medical offices. I don't want to give a bunch of unsolicited advice, but just validate how you feel. You have an absolute right to be angry and upset (which I'm sure is an understatement). Life as you know it is forever changed and it's not fair that you weren't properly prepared. I will say though, are there medical lesions are your base that you can speak to about the process and treatment you had? I know they cannot change what happened to you, but maybe something good will come from it. Lastly, know you have support from others in this forum who maybe feel frustrated about different aspects of the surgery and experiences they had.

5th day of my liquid boy oh boy this diet is no joke don't really miss the food that much but my sense of smell is heightened lol....I got up to 144 oz of water yesterday. also if you're getting chicken broth or beef broth make sure you get the low sodium and not the 50% less sodium version I got that, the first time and there's about 400mg of sodium. Now if you only plan on having broth once a day like I was doing that might be fine because the low sodium which is unlimited on my pre-op diet has about 70 to 90 MG of sodium so it's like having 4 cups. also i got premier protein pre-made shakes for my liquid diet and there a lot of info saying it's not fortified enough for the liquid diet so I added a multivitamin and fiber.

I had serious doubts about getting the gastric sleeve a few days before my surgery. I expressed them to my husband but he thought I was just nervous and wanted to support me, so he urged me to go through with it. I hate it though. I hate my life now and I'm not sure if I will ever not hate it. I have a couple close friends and they did not feel this way 4 weeks post-op like I do. I cry all the time. I'm worried something is wrong and terrified of having to go through any kind of revision surgery. I'm an American living in Germany and it is so difficult to contact my surgeons office and get anyone who speaks enough english to help me. I started my WL journey about 4 years ago when we were stationed in Italy. I was denied a medically necessary breast reduction because my BMI was too high. So I was referred for weight loss guidance.First, I was sent to the base nutritionist (a perfectly in shape airman) who told me I needed to work out more and eat more whole vegetables. I had to work with him for 1+ years before being able to try any WL medications. Unfortunately that was in early 2019, and we all know how the next few years went. We PCS'd to a new base in Germany in 2020 and when I asked about the WL medications I was told that was not an option here. They recommended I carry on with my (now virtual) nutritionist. I wasn't losing any weight and working out would send my back into spasms from my H cups breasts. I was taking a combination of Flexural, Motrin, and Valium for my back spasms, only using the Valium when they were at a level 8 or above pain level (so less than 1 valium a month). Turns out not only could I not get WL meds here, I also could not get a refill on my Valium. I had used too much (less than 1 pill a month for a year). So any weight training was immediately phased out of my working out, which now consisted of only walking. This past summer I went back and told them I really need a breast reduction and if I had to go the WLS route then I was open to that. The provider (who has had WLS themself) was very on board with WLS. I told them that I had already done the nutrition part at my previous base, so he put in the surgical consult referral right away. After I met with the surgeon, who surprise, surprise wanted to operate (surgeons always gonna surgeon), my provider put in the referral for my surgery and stated that all prerequisites had been completed at prior base. Then boom... endoscopy and surgery scheduled. Now all I had said was that I went to nutrition at my previous base and continued it virtually. So I had no idea what other preqs there could be. I had a few meeting with the nutritionist here about the gastric pre/post op diet. That's it. I learned about the full liquid to clear liquid pre-op and clear liquid to full liquid to purees to soft foods diet post op. I was completely unprepared mentally and emotionally for this surgery. Not to mention I had done all my pre-op nutrition with the American on base nutritionist and post-op was with the German hospital nutritionist. They had completely different guidelines (like the Germans wanted me to start soft solids on DAY 5 post op and stop protein shakes immediately). I was in the hospital for 4 days with nurses who spoke very little English, so they would give me shots and pills but never tell me what they were giving me. I know a small amount of German, enough to get by with running errands and what not, so I understood one nurse when after I told her my German was minimal and asked if she could speak English, she got annoyed with me and told me I was never going to be allowed to go home. The patient liaison from base sorted it out and the issue was the hospital nutritionist would not do my consult without an in person translator that I needed to provide and I could not be discharged without that consultation. I felt like I was drowning; I still feel like I'm barely able to tread water now at 4 weeks post-op. My end goal wasn't WL to be skinny. I just wanted a breast reduction. Before surgery I didn't have high blood pressure, diabetes, GERD, sleep apnea, high cholesterol...zero comorbidities. For all intents and purposes I was a healthy fat lady with giant boobs. So post surgery I was/am overwhelmed with regret. There's all these things I feel like I didn't know and wasn't prepared for. Like I knew I was going to be eating smaller portions, but didn't know about the tiny bites and chewing things until its mush in your mouth for the rest of your life. I didn't know that my stomach would be almost too swollen to drink water after surgery and that the german hospital only provided water and broth, no popsicles or jello. So I spent my days in the hospital feeling nauseous all the time because drinking water made me taste blood in my mouth and that made me gag, all while my nurse tisked me and told me I was never going home. No one asked if I had a history of eating disorders (which I do) and how this surgery and diet are going to bring up old thoughts and feelings of self harm and negative self talking. No one weighed out if the possible negative side effects of the surgery were stronger than the positives. Pre surgery I took ZERO daily meds other than a daily vitamin. Now I need an antacid and stool softener to be able to ingest anything other than water and not tear myself in half in the bathroom. I also need daily tylenol because eating anything gives me a massive headache. I don't even want to eat anymore. I spend 30 minutes forcing myself to take tiny bites of some high protein food and then I spend the next hour actively trying not to barf it back up. Without tylenol I am running at 99F, but when I eat it goes up to 100-101. The doctor said its not an emergency unless its 101.5, which is hasn't gotten to yet. And even if it did, what would I do?! The hospital was horrible. My hand still hurts from where the nurse wouldn't flush my IV, so the port go blocked and all he fluid and medicine soaked into the flesh of my hand, making it swell up like Wreck It Ralph. I had an allergic reaction that made me sneeze for days after surgery. No one would offer any help or advice about my sneezing. They told me to eat less, but I wasn't eating anything at all. I just hate this. I hate food. I hate eating. I hate the thought of chewing until something is a mushy paste. I hate life. I just wanted a breast reduction and now I feel like I've had a life reduction.

I found Genepro to be pretty tasteless, but stopped using it after a few months because of some dubious things I read online about it, and the newest version doesn’t contain as much protein as the former ones claimed to. I now use Syntrax medical unflavored. It has a slight taste, but better than several others I tried. I can’t taste it in oatmeal, pancakes, or breakfast cookies. I think it would have a taste/texture in water, though. GL!

So far it’s consist of protein drinks, water and some veggies and some fruit. Doesn’t mention anything else and I feel like I am starving lol

Here are some additional items you might consider adding to your monthly order list: Greek yogurt: A good source of protein and calcium. Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and other nuts are a healthy snack that can help you meet your protein needs. Hard-boiled eggs: A convenient and portable source of protein. Berries: Fresh or frozen berries are a healthy and low-calorie snack. Vegetables: Carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, and other vegetables are a healthy and low-calorie snack. Low-fat cheese: A good source of calcium and protein. Deli turkey or chicken breast: A low-fat source of protein that can be used in salads or sandwiches. Nut butters: Almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter can be used as a spread or added to smoothies. Whole grain crackers or rice cakes: A low-calorie snack that can be topped with nut butter, cheese, or avocado. Meal replacement bars: A convenient option for when you're on the go and need a quick and balanced meal. Also, check out The BariatricPal Store! They carry over 7,500 Bariatric friendly products for pre and post-op! Check them out at https://Store.BariatricPal.com.

It can be challenging to work in an environment with a lot of junk food, especially when you're trying to change your eating habits. However, there are some steps you can take to make it easier: Plan ahead: Pack healthy meals and snacks to bring to work with you. This way, you'll have healthy options readily available when you feel hungry. Surround yourself with positive influences: Try to seek out coworkers who have similar goals and interests in healthy eating. Joining a weight loss support group or finding an accountability partner can also be helpful. Practice mindful eating: Take the time to sit down and enjoy your meals, rather than eating at your desk or on the go. Pay attention to the flavors, textures, and smells of your food, and savor each bite. Be prepared to say no: It's okay to decline junk food offerings from coworkers. Be polite but firm in your resolve to stick to your healthy eating plan. Avoid temptation: If there's a particular junk food item that you find especially tempting, try to avoid it altogether or limit your exposure to it. Stay positive: Remember why you're making these changes and focus on the benefits you'll experience, both in terms of your health and your weight loss goals. By making small changes and being proactive about your health, you can overcome the challenges of working in an environment with a lot of junk food and achieve your weight loss goals. Good luck!

I was diagnosed with Grave's disease at 20 years old. Because of my age (child bearing years) Radioactive Iodine was not a treatment option and I had to have the majority of my thyroid removed. The stress of a pregnancy destroyed the functionality of the remaining thyroid and I have been on 175 mcg since (30+ years) but still have trouble maintaining adequate T3 levels even when taking T3 directly. Medications can never fully replicate God's design and as a result my metabolism has never recovered completely. To stay thin, I became a master of deprivation and an extreme carb-phobic. Until 2012, I "dealt" with "skinny people problems". As far as underarm hollows, it may take time to increase your flexibility, but raising your arm with your elbow behind your head alleviates the hollows. The issue of hip bones, bony knees & rumps, etc., we become so accustomed to extra padding we forget that this is how our bodies are supposed to be. As overweight people, few of us have the layer of muscle and the thin layer of FIRM fat the human body should have. When we lose excessive weight, we lack the muscle and the fat that remains is loose and contained within loose skin so it "parts" like the Red Sea when pressure is placed on bones. The solution is the bane of our existence.....exercise, specifically weight training to build muscle. Loose skin will always make our "thin layer of fat" loose rather than firm but it sure beats being obese. As far as feeling cold, I can't speak with any authority. Being severely hypothyroid, I have difficulty regulating body temp (my normal temperature runs 96.4). When i get chilled, it takes an Act of Congress to warm me up. On the rare occasions I get overheated, I am unable to sweat which is the natural mechanism to cool oneself, so I must resort to cold showers.

I knew I would struggle to purée food myself so I found a delivery service and have been enjoying the food a lot, they have a Bariatric box delivery. My dietician approved (albeit thought I’d find the servings too big at least for a week, she’s right!) just using for dinner. Anyway link below: https://www.carefoodco.com.au/

I still struggle to eat meals in 30 min, I'm usually done between 10 to 15min, I do try to take a bit chew chew chew, walk a little and then repeat but still too fast, its a habit I want to kick,since it makes me feel full faster, without eating all my protein. Sent from my SM-G960U1 using BariatricPal mobile app

One of the most difficult challenges is probably going to be decreased levels of energy, especially with the long shifts. I’m a nurse and struggled to get through my 8 hour days on my return - although I only took 2 weeks off. Now I’m 2 months post op and can do my 8 hour days but on my 12 hour days I’m exhausted. Protein shakes will be your best friend! It sounds like you know a lot about the recovery period but you may find it difficult to manage eating every 3 hours while also getting adequate hydration. Sometimes it takes me an hour or more to eat a yogurt due to patient care and then that’s more time taken away that I can drink fluids. One of the hardest things has been no caffeine and sugar for the energy boosts.

I spritz a little EVOO directly on the dumplings but they don’t really need it at all. The protein count was a lackluster 3 grams 🤣 which is why I added minced Turkey to the meal.

I also get the Gatorade Zero Sugar protein drinks (cheapest price I have found) and protein quest chips, great when on sale.

Thank you! That was very helpful .I am 39 yes old 5ft 6in I was 305 pounds before my 2 week pre op diet on September 15th day of surgery I weighed 294 now today I am 240 on a goal of 180 I work out 4 times a week but have no physical food restrictions I watch what I eat and do try to get enough protein. I am so proud of my progress but get discouraged at times as I don't really see the results yet . My stomach size has not changed. But arms legs face have . I am approaching the 6 month mark and am just worried that I won't lose anymore after that date. Sent from my SM-G991B using BariatricPal mobile app

I am one of the lucky ones, I don't have any hunger 27 days out of 28. I find if I eat 4 or 5 small meals a day works well. That way I can get all my necessary food groups in. Pasta, bread, and potatoes are off my menu, no tolerance of them yet. It has taken me almost a year to master this as I was on really low calories for a long time due to severe restriction and nausea. I can manage to get in 1000 to 1300 calories a day this way and all my protein requirements Breakfast will be a protein yogurt Mid morning a small glass of milk Lunch is usually homemade soup, veg, lentil, mushroom, Thai style or Pho Mid afternoon - a piece of fruit and a small piece of cheese Evening meal - meat and salad or vegetables On my hungry day, I don't let my calories get above 1500 by eating lower calorie foods than on other days

I usually drink up until I eat but I don't drink at all during meals and I always wait at least 30 minutes after a meal. It is a lifetime rule, according to all my surgeons. I find this rule to be the most critical for me, even more than protein first. I don't know about anyone else but once I drink something, I almost always get hungry sooner.

The temporary change to your taste buds & for some more sensitive sense of smell can make finding something you can tolerate eating difficult. I remember being excited about being able to eat vegetables again in soft food but my favourites were awful. Took me a few tries to work out which ones I could eat. At 10 weeks I would expect you are on solid foods. I focussed on ensuring I was eating all my protein first at each meal & only a small amount of vegetable if I was able & usually only for dinner. I very happily never had another protein shake once I was on purée - they were disgusting. And like @catwoman7 I didn’t have to continue with them either. I supplemented my protein intake with a high protein yoghurt & yoghurt drink. Water can almost be too heavy too drink at first. Don’t be afraid to try other liquids & not just plain water. I’d have a large mug of green tea, a yoghurt drink & flattened sparkling water (left the bottle open - I seemed to tolerate the mineral taste better) as well as plain water. Some find warm drinks easier to drink than cold too. Hunger & appetite do return. When is individual but between 6-12 months is pretty common. I found it a helpful time to change my relationship with food. I started to eat to a routine because I knew I needed to eat to get in the nutrients my body needed to function not because I wanted to eat or wanted to eat a particular food, taste or texture (head hunger).

I had an increase in my menopausal symptoms after I had my gall removed in 2921. We increased my dosage but nothing changed (except a small weight gain) until my GP wondered if I wasn't absorbing them well anymore since the issue started after the gall surgery which also caused a protein absorption issue. She put me on a HRT patch as a trial. Well, she was right. The symptoms are gone & I’m only on a low dose HRT again. Malabsorption can be a concern with bypass so maybe ask your doctor if the absorption of your HRT could be being affected. Bonus of the patch is no pills - yay. Just replace the patch every 3.5 days. Oh, & I’ve slowly lost some of the weight I’d gained.

Snap! I’ve been having gyoza occasionally too lately (prawn though) but I usually just steam them. How much oil if any do you add to your air fryer & how long do they take to cook? I usually have 4 gyoza for about 130 calories but only about 9g protein which isn’t great ☹️.

I'm only in week 6 post-op and had a very hard time getting in all my fluids for WEEKS after surgery. The protein was difficult, too. Felt like I was CONSTANTLY drinking or eating and everything gave me nausea. In all of my Googling, I read that dehydration can absolutely bring weight loss to a halt as well as not getting sufficient protein. When I was finally able to meet my daily goals of both last week, the pounds started falling off, one to two pounds a DAY. I know that is crazy and it won't last too much longer, but I was grateful for the breakthrough. Also, any diet less than 1,200 calories will negatively impact your metabolism in the long run and really slow weight loss or bring it to a stop. So, if you're further down the road post-op and eating regular foods, check your calorie intake. All of this advice is armchair dietitian advice sourced from Dr. Google. Lol I just thought they were interesting finds.

yes - hunger comes back for almost all of us sometime during the first year. Mine came roaring back at five months out. I know it sounds weird, but enjoy it while it lasts. Although I was weirded out by it at first, I soon found it very liberating to never be hungry. By the end I wish it had never ended - it was so much easier to lose weight when I was never hungry and didn't give a flip about food! p.s. are you still supposed to drink protein shakes? The RD at my clinic said we could give them up once we were able to get all of our protein requirements in from food.