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I think I have a blood sugar meter somewhere, and I'll try to dig it up. I guess I've been avoiding directly measuring my blood sugar because FWIK non-insulemic hypoglycemia is usually caused by problems with your pancreas, which I do NOT want to contemplate... For now, since the problem seems to be related to/worsened by my caffeine intake, I'm weaning myself (further) off caffeine, and trying to stick with the "many small, protein-heavy meals," and I'm going to try to have a protein-heavy "snack" before bedtime (probably just a Protein shake). Oh, and cardio exercise, since that seems to help people with hypo-g.

Here is an web site on bariatrics and reactive hypoglycemia (reoccurring low blood sugar) http://pamtremble.blogspot.com/2010/10/reactive-hypoglycemia-after-bariatric.html. Since I have lost the majority of my weight. My blood sugars have been hitting mind numbing lows in the 50's. I found some resources that have information on diet to manage blood sugar levels. Examples of meals and snacks that work well for stabilizing blood sugar include: lowfat cheese and whole grain crackers slice of whole grain toast with peanut butter sandwich made with whole grain bread fat free plain Greek yogurt with a small piece of fruit or 1/2 cup berries large salad with abundant veggies and a source of protein (chicken, tuna, beans, egg) Keeping a food and lifestyle diary may help you determine which foods and other factors lead up to a blood sugar crash. First and foremost, you want to follow a diet designed to regulate your blood sugar level. This generally includes eating small, frequent meals spaced evenly throughout the day, such as every 2-3 hours. Meals should consist of moderate portions of high-fiber whole grains (such as 100% whole grain cereal or bread, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, quinoa, sweet potato), some lean protein (such as turkey, ham, fish, egg, beans, lowfat yogurt or cheese), and healthy fat (such as nuts, nut butters, olive oil, avocado). Sugars, especially in the form of beverages (juice, soda, etc.) and sweets (candy, jelly, table sugar, syrup, honey, cookies, cakes), should be avoided as much as possible, as they stimulate the pancreas the most because the sugar rushes into your bloodstream rapidly. Starchy carbohydrates digest down into sugar as well, so it is important to eat these in moderate amounts Starchy carbohydrates digest down into sugar as well, so it is important to eat these in moderate amounts (such as 1/2-1 cup), and choose whole grains over refined flours. White pasta, rices, breads, and cereals are more or less guaranteed to make you feel lousy after eating them as they are digested quickly and raise insulin levels. Fruits also need to be consumed in small amounts, as they contain the natural sugar, fructose, and are best consumed with a source of protein, such as cottage cheese or nuts. Even though fruits are an excellent source of fiber, the sugar content is enough to cause your pancreas to over-react if eaten on an empty stomach. The goal is essentially to not eat carbohydrate foods without including a source of protein or fat at the same time. Proteins and fat help stabilize blood sugars by making the carbohydrate digest more slowly, as proteins and fats take longer to digest and do not convert into significant amounts of sugar. Strenuous exercise burns sugar out of your muscles and bloodstream quickly, so you may be more prone to low blood sugar during extended periods of activity as well. Eating a snack contain a small amount of carbohydrate and protein (such as yogurt or trail mix) within 1 hour of strenuous activity may be enough to keep you going strong. Developing a habit of eating small, frequent meals and taking healthy foods with you for work, school, and when on-the-go, is your best weapon against suffering the symptoms of low blood sugar. If you find incorporating the above suggestions is still not improving your symptoms, you may need to sit down with a dietitian to develop a personalized meal plan to meet your schedule, food preferences, and overall lifestyle needs. Contact your dietician for more information. There is no point in living day-in and day-out with symptoms of hypoglycemia when there is a common sense way to tackle the issue and regain your quality of life!

Thanks for the great advice! I can already see I will have some people very close to me that just don't get it and most definitely don't understand nor support my decision. I got my surgery date on Friday - it's Nov 15! That's so crazy because its only 2 weeks away! I do have a few questions: The first, how long does it take to recover enough to carry on with life? I am a co-owner of a business and it will be very hard to be away for a long time. My surgery is on a Wednesday, and I'm hoping I can return the next week (just for short periods of time). My work isn't physical, so I don't need to worry about heavy lifting and all of that. The second question is about nutrients. I've read through my binder about 10 times and I've talked with our nutritionist and the surgeon, but I'm still concerned that I will have trouble getting enough calories and vitamins. Even at the weight I am right now (253), I have a pretty small capacity for food. I'm a grazer, not a binge-er. I'm one of those people that doesn't eat breakfast or lunch, then I have dinner and snack through the evening on high carb foods (or dairy, my fav). I take meds for a hypo-thyroid and my metabolism is totally shot. This is mainly how I've gained and stayed at this weight. My question - do any of you have a hard time getting in your calories and is it hard to be creative with your meal choices - making sure to get in your protein, etc.? And, did you lose hair? How much weight did you lose per month? I've heard many people say they lose most of their weight in the first 6 months? That's a lot of weight! Lastly, what about extra skin? Has that been an issue? Thanks so much for listening to my ramble! I'm so glad to have this platform and I'm especially excited about meeting and making new friends that 'get' this process Cathy

I am dealing with tjis too. My dr dx it as RHG its called Reactive Hypoglycemia. It comes on from losing weight and malabsorption. Whenever eating a carb i have to have protein to balance it out. An by carbs i mean even in fruits veggies an such. If you gpogle RHG it gives tons of info HTH

the hypoglycemic complication is not very common statistically which is good That being said, I hve to eat every 2.5-3 hours or I start getting hypo symptoms and fast. Now that I added a few easy carbs, I'm doing better. I'm having to check my sugars 5-6 times a day especially since I'm still on a dose of long acting insulin but I'm off three of my four diabetes meds and I was sleeved the 24th of October!! Sugars are awesome!

Yeah I see a lot of people say they only had to do a few days before and my doc nutritionists is scary the daylights out if us saying if we have anything at all then there will be stomach residue which makes me think then how do other people only do a few days. Doesn't make sense to me. I Have lost 5 pounds in 4 days. But I have reactive hypoglycemia and the nausea and headaches are killing me.

I had gastric bypass surgery around 6 years ago and I am very pleased with the results. It is sort of like the gold standard for bariatric surgery. They have most of the bugs worked out. Mini-gastric bypass is somewhat new so I can not really assess it. In general, many people try various kinds of diets prior to eventually getting gastric bypass surgery. Most of the time these are referred to as yo-yo diets. Because the individuals will lose some weight but then over time give up the diet and then gain the weight back and then some. So it is like a yo-yo. In your case it went to the extreme and you slid into anorexia. So the only advise here is that the psychological treatment component is very important for you for the surgery to work. (the package with the 12 phycologist sessions). Also if things go south sometimes after surgery then reactivate the physiological component. The three most important elements after gastric bypass surgery are to meet your daily protein, fluid and vitamin requirements. Food is secondary because your body is converting your stored fat into the energy that drives your body. Thus you lose weight.

It could be reactive hypoglycemia, but you said you've checked your blood sugar. It could be a form of dumping (are you eating things that are higher in sugar or fat when this happens?), it could be that you are eating too fast. I would keep track of when this happens and see if you can identify what the common factors are. Also... definitely try to reach out to your doctor.

Sounds like everybody else recognizes it as reactive hypoglycemia. Be careful what you eat going forward.

I have reactive hypoglycemia since my surgery. If I eat anything too carb heavy, sugary, or fatty (mayo) It'll make me have all sorts of nasty symptoms such as headache, heart flutters, pounding heartbeat, weakness, blurred vision, dizziness, sleepiness, and sliming. I have to really watch that my eating is balanced, and then I feel great. I wonder if you had a touch of this? My doctor says it is because the smaller stomach empties faster into the intestines than the normal stomach, which means the body may produce too much insulin, swinging you low after you eat.

Has anyone had problems with a high reading on their c-reactive protein level and with lapband surgery it was reduced?

As reassuring as it is to know that we are all in this 'left shoulder boat' I am concerned about it. It had all but subsided after day 4 and the day (day 6) that I had my drain removed, it came searing back at that very moment. I'll try to walk more and I'm keeping up with the Tylenol and ice pack but, wow, does it hurt. Same exact place that you've described (in the joint). Maybe the drain being pulled out somehow 'reactivated' the nerve irritation that had subsided?? Any thoughts or support would be appreciated, Amy )

OK, I have to defend Dr. K. He is NOT reactive, he is quite PROACTIVE. I went for my pre-op appt and had two scripts for ANTI-NAUSEA meds and pain meds. Those were filled before I left the hospital. It is clearly stated in his literature he provides well before surgery to help prevent nausea. It is listed in the orders as well. A patch was placed behind my ear and numerous stomach upset and nausea meds were pushed through my iv. This is Dr. K's protocol. The first two days post op were pure HELL for me. I don't do pain well and I was depressed with the realization that my love affair with food was pretty much over. Now, a couple days later, I feel a lot better and very positive. Everyone reacts differently - from what I read before the surgery, I thought this would be a piece of cake. Not true and quite a shock. But I'm different than the other people I read about. Dr. K was one of the most caring, gentle people I've ever met. And he was very, very proactive about nausea and vomiting. In fact he mentioned more than once how important it is NOT to vomit. Thanks - I just had to defend such a good man.

Unfortunately we cannot change the behavior of others. She is probably very concerned and maybe even miffed that you "did this to yourself". I suggest you find a way in your own head to let these comments pass right by you without being reactive. It's sometimes the same thing we have to do with most negative comments people make regarding our choices. You've done something very proactive for your life. Be proud of that, and over time as you heal, you will be able to resume normal eating in small but healthy portions. Good luck on your journey!!

I haven't been on this board in over a year, but I see this thread has been reactivated so wanted to put in my two cents. I was sleeved by Dr. Kelly in March 2012. I booked directly with him and had no problems doing so. I was originally going through a Lighter Me, and then chose not to do so after the Dr. they wanted me to see after they stopped working with Dr, Kelly had some really negative issues posted on this forum. I did know about the patient death with Dr. Kelly but did my research and found many people who had been happy with their experience with him. I have absolutely nothing negative to say about him, he came to see me several times before and after to make sure that all my questions and concerns were answered about the surgery. I felt that he honestly cared about my well being. As for my surgery, he did a great job. I had no complications, and my incisions healed really well. Weight loss surgery is hard, don't kid yourself otherwise. You can't eat very much for quite a long time afterwards, and it takes a while to kind of return to feeling "normal". I did have my sister go with me to Tijuana so I didn't go by myself. Anyway, just wanted to voice my opinion that Dr, Kelly is a good surgeon in my opinion and I have no reservations about recommending him to anyone who is considering surgery in Mexico. As for my weight loss, I am down seventy pounds from my surgery. Should be more, but...that's me, not Dr. Kelly! Currently a size ten, started out at a size 18. Very happy I had the surgery, it changed my life. Everyone has to make the right decision for themselves, but if you are considering a surgeon in Mexico, I would definitely recommend you consider Dr. Kelly.

I have hypo thyroidism I went from weighing 130 to. 230 in a couple months no change in diet or excercise it was awful I trieeverything then two kids and a tubal preg made it even worse I'm so thankful I got to do it because maybe I can have the confidence I used to and be in shape like I was

Ok, so now you know you are prone to blood sugar problems, and what it feels like when yours gets too low. Make sure to keep "emergency" juice on hand (individually packaged singles are great since they can just stay in your cabinet or fridge until you need them). Try to eat more often through the day to help keep things stable. And always follow your juice with a protein based meal so you don't develop the reactive hypoglycemia. Your doctor will want to know you are having this issue, and can help you know what else you should be doing (changing meds, start testing blood sugar, etc.). Good luck!

I've been banded for 2 weeks now and I'm having some problems with low blood sugar last couple of days. Been feeling kind of "out of it" and unable to concentrate so my formerly diabetic friend (she's had the gastric bypass) tested my blood and my sugar was in the 50's and it said that I was hypo-glycemic. This morning I was craving more ruffage and ate a bowl of Kashi high Protein Cereal with some plain soy milk & grapes. Up till this point I've been sticking to my post-surgery diet - Proteins, cooked vegies & fruits. Cereal (starches), even low sugar, wasn't suppose to be on that list. Still waiting for my Dr to contact me. Hypo-glycemia runs in my family. Anyone have any thoughts? Could I have made it worse by what I ate? :confused2:

Hi there! I had planned on having sleeve and was switched to bypass after learning that the sleeve could make my reflux worse. I am so happy I had bypass. All of my co-morbitiies are gone now. I am off medications with the exception of hypo thyroid replacement. I feel fantastic! It is hard work and a new way of life. I think both surgeries require a lot of lifestyle change. The most important thing you can do for yourself is feel very comfortable before you go in. You must have a positive attitude in WLS or you will struggle to make the necessary changes. Good luck on your upcoming surgery!

It might be related to low blood sugar, especially since you drank some orange juice and it stopped. If you had diabetes prior to surgery and were taking prescription medicine prior to surgery, it may be time to scale back the use of this medicine. It might be signs of a condition called reactive hypoglycemia. Here are a couple links. https://www.stjoes.ca/patients-visitors/patient-education/f-j/PD 7972 Reactive Hypoglycemia after Bariatric Surgery.pdf https://www.ridgeviewmedical.org/services/bariatric-weight-loss/enewsletter-articles/reactive-hypoglycemia-postgastric-bypass/

Following up with a GP is good for general health, but following up with your bariatric surgeon is crucial if you are still having complications from bypass. There are a number of things that can be causing your symptoms, some that can be easily corrected by procedures during an endoscopy. As far as the blood spike, do you mean your blood sugar? Some people that have bypass can develop reactive hypoglycemia which can definitely make your blood sugar levels bounce around and cause fatigue and such. I'm sorry you are feeling bad!

Im hypo been so for 30 years but the past 3 have gained 30 lds. Today i pray is my new start getting sleeved. I hope i can loose. Self pay. Lots rideing on this. My health. And finances.

Almost 4 years out sleeve - I'm not going to post my menu - I don't want anyone to think what I am eating in a day is normal. 1988 calories. I try to hit up to 2500/3000 calories (crazy to think you can get this amount of calories in with surgery) protein 133 grams carbs 214 grams (I'm carb sensitive and up to 144 pounds this morning) fat 74 grams I am carb loading for a practice uphill trail run this weekend....This is In prep for a half marathon elevation run on the 21st. I fuel differently to sustain the run and keep my blood sugar from dropping. (reactive hyperglycemia from surgery) After this run I will be back on my plan.

I totally agree about the reactive hypoglycemia -- sounds like the classic symptoms. If your sugar is very low, also carry glucose tabs with you as that will raise your blood sugar straight away, then the nuts/protein bar can sustain it from there. I'm afraid the latter two don't have enough immediately available glucose to keep you from going so low you pass out. If there's not enough information on here about it -- you can also read a lot about it on Thinner Times. It's a relatively frequent side effect of RnY and DS, less so for VSG, but not unheard of. Good luck and feel better!!

I'll admit that I'm having a few. I am dealing with some serious reactive hypoglycemia 5 months post op. I had the surgery to avoid diabetes. Now when I eat, my blood sugar spikes (even with careful avoidance of simple sugars etc) and then drops dangerously low about 2 hours after meals. I'm learning that this is a more common consequence of gastric bypass than I initially thought. I had originally wanted a gastric sleeve, but the surgeon felt mini gastric bypass was a better option for someone who is prediabetic. I was not warned about this potential complication.