Search the Community

Exercise #1 - 25 min on treadmill (would have done 30 min or more, but the darn thing came unplugged and then couldn't get it to work again - so left) Exercise #2 - LBWO M1 - SF yogurt mixed with lf cottage cheese m2 - coffee & cream m 3 - 3 whole wheat crackers & 3 oz of pink salmon m 4 - grilled talapia and broccoli sald (the last of it - getting sick of it now - lol) Notes - I've started tanning and I tried on a shirt I bought last year on clearance for $4.00, it was way too tight on me, but I tried it on, it fit! I'm wearing it today and I feel so good in it! I guess I feel so good becaue I remember how tight it was on me, and now it slips on with ease.

Getting in the Protein, that's the trick, isn't it. But ya gotta do it. Personally, I don't eat Protein Bars often, they don't give me the best bang for the buck as far as protein per calorie/carb. I also don't care for Quest bars. Protein Isolate is the way to go for the majority of your weight loss, as mentioned by others. The protein is very available to you, which is needed at this point. As far as calories, the big thing is to avoid soft tasty things liked mashed potatoes and cream of wheat. They are sooo easy to get down and do nothing for you except add calories that are unecessary. After your protein, get in some nice cooked veggies (even if it is just a bite or two), you will be much better of for it. To get in enough protein, I always had two Snacks a day in addition to my meals. Early on the snacks were greek yogurt, a glass of milk, nonfat ricotta with noncaloric sweetener or syrup, cottage cheese, hard boiled eggs, etc. Later on snacks were Jerky, nuts, soynuts, edamame, Peanut Butter on celery or apple slices, that sort of thing. I also used milk in my protein shakes to increase the protein form 20 or so grams to 30. I still drink protein shakes almost daily (at least 5 days a week). If I don't do a shake, it is very difficult for me to get in enough protein, even almost 9 months out. Stick with it and keep trying, and you'll be OK. Good luck

You may want to keep an eye out for Protein Powder - maybe you can buy some on-line? If you can't find any, drink milk, liquid yogurt, and kefir to get Protein and calories in. You can make a smoothie with some yogurt that might help you out - as long as it is completely smooth. Ask your doctor if there are any supplements locally that he can recommend. Good luck--

I've heard this is very common... nurse told me to get unflavored whey isolate to mix in broth, yogurt, etc..have to cool down the broth before u put it in ... the nausea will likely get better so I've read

Healthwise Hot chocolate made with Fairlife Skim Milk=120 cals, 22 g Protein Black Bean "Soup"-puree one can of black Beans (drained), 1/2 c. salsa, 2 c. chicken broth-makes four servings-one serving =120 cals, 10.5 g protein (you can add unflavored Protein powder to kick it up to 34 g. protein). "Cheesecake" yogurt-1 c. plain nonfat greek yogurt, 1 tbs S/F Cheesecake pudding mix, 1/2 c. unsweetened almond milk-91 cals, 11.6 g. protein I'm also on full liquids and these have helped me to get through the last few days.

That looks almost like what I just got for my pre op diet ( minus the cheese sticks and yogurt)!! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I am officially 2 weeks post-op and today is the day I get my ONE egg! I have been patiently waiting for this moment. I made it soft-boiled, with a touch of salt and pepper. I'm about halfway done- and getting full. This is crazy! I remember when I could knock out a 4-egg omelette to myself! Next week I get to start yogurts, shaved turkey, soft fish, etc. For now? This egg is the bomb!! So tired of liquids [emoji23] SW: 350 / CW: 321 / GW: 200 Sleeved April 13, 2017

That sounds really challenging. What about bean based dishes? They won't smell bad heating up. I have been living off them right now, as it's the only thing that has been tasting good. Or, Greek yogurt or soup with protein powder? Good luck!

Yes I started on 1 Oz protein shakes in hospital. Now on 4 oz...want food. This sucks! Sent from my SM-G900V using the BariatricPal App Whatever you do, don't try food. I made that mistake thinking I was ready for it about a week out and it ended in disaster. Not only did the one or two bites come back up, but I couldn't even handle a Protein shake for a couple days after. This too shall pass, sleeved on 3/1 and at three months I'm alternating between soft and regular diet. I still use protein shakes daily, lots of Greek yogurt, and oatmeal has been a life saver. Being three months out, I'm also down 60lbs and have 50 more to go until mine and my surgeons initial goal. Have faith in their plan, and don't rush yourself. Sent from my iPhone

He didn't tell me anything about carbs at all. He just focused on Protein. But yet at my early stages, I could have yogurt and creamed Soups, they have carbs. My net carbs are very low. I was wondering if thats the norm. Thanks so much for your info!

How about frozen yogurt?? Same thing?? Just curious I just got sleeved two days ago.

My doctor did not have me on straight liquids right after post-op - I went straight to the pureed stage. For the first couple of weeks, I LIVED on blenderized lentil soup! My favorite is the one from Trader Joe's in the big can. All vegetarian, inexpensive, high protein, and DELICIOUS!! My surgeon is a huge fan of lentils post surgery - calls them one of nature's most perfect foods. He says that fish is the other perfect food. Not sure if you are lacto-ovo, vegan, or a pescetarian, but if fish figures into your plan at all, it is a great back-up protein once you get to soft foods. I also do non-fat vanilla greek yogurt, mixed with PB2 (powdered peanut butter). The combo packs a huge protein punch and is absolutely delicious! Cottage cheese is also great in the soft food phase.

Oh yeah, I'm totally jerky boy! And yogurt... and cheese... But I tend to keep going back for more. That's what has me slightly worried. I seem to still need to be consuming and/or feeling full all the time. I've been able to manage it so far by choosing safe foods and drinking ridiculous amounts of fluids, but it feels risky for the long run. Gotta find a non-consumable replacement.

1 package FF SF cheese cake pudding mix 1 cup FF milk 1 cup FF Plain Greek FF yogurt 1 cup FF Cool Whip whip it all together and chill 2 hrs then serve. By my calcuations via MFP it should work out to about 61 cal. per 1/2 cup 0 fat 4.2 g Protein 2.1 g Sugar 1.3 g Carbs I say not bad and is so delicious

Have you tried changing the habit, and stop eating ice? I have a big sports drink drinking bottle I put ice in the Water but since I can't get to the ice with the top on, I'd never think of eating it. I am guessing you are experiencing acid but that is just a guess. Try proselec for a few weeks.When I had a lapband excess acid made me overeat things like yogurt, frozen yogurt, soft ice cream etc. In hindsight I realize I was self medicating for acid I didn't know I had. I think you need to find a bariatric center of excellence for a check up -my gut feeling is that you should be checked because you used the word painfully to describe your hunger. I was sleeved in 2011 and I don't feel pain, just pangs or twinge of hunger when it is time to eat.

So I went to the grocery store this evening to buy stuff for my puree stage starting tomorrow. I was like a deer in the headlights. I haven't been in a grocery store since July 25!! Before the surgery I stocked up on liquids, Jello, Protein powder, Soup, etc. I bought fat free Greek yogurt (unflavored, cause I am tired of sweet shakes), egg beaters (I'll have to cook and puree), hummus, small curd cottage cheese, light mayo, and canned chicken and turkey (which has to be pureed too). The single-serve hummus cups look so small, but I'll only be eating 1/4 of them for an entire meal! Tolerating Protein shakes and Water has been easy for me -- fingers crossed that the purees will go down well, but not so well that I don't want to stop I'm hoping that the floodgates will stay firmly CLOSED! Finediva -- have you moved on to soft foods yet? Ellen

Two ways... if I'm out with my husband and son I just order an extra plate and pick of their plates. I love that because I get a good variety to choose from. If I'm with others I'll order a meal and eat what I can and ask for a go box. Most people don't notice that you didn't each much unless you make it obvious. Lots of times I will pass some to my husbands like "here try this!" He doesn't have a weight problem so he is happy to oblige. If I have lots left over I eat it for lunch and dinner the next day. I have a teen-aged son so many times it never makes it that long:-) I never eat at fast food and will pass up an invitation that is offered. I only eat at restaurants that I am familiar with and have healthy options to choose from. Most people understand when we try to eat healthy and will step in line. If they don't, or they get snarky, then re-evaluate the friendship or embarrass the hell out of them by bringing a sack lunch to the eatery because they've chosen a place with no options:-) Yes, I've done that. My girlfriends wanted to go to Arby's for lunch even after my protests...I stopped at the grocery store, picked up a yogurt and sat with them while they ate crap...HA! Now that I'm down 40+ pounds they get it and have stepped in line:-)

Congratulations! That's a huge drop in four n 1/2 months! I was just sleeved on Tuesday. I enjoy reading about other sleeved patients and their recovery. Sorry I'm still at the stage two (yogurts, applesauce, Soups - only broth & creamy). I would LOVE some steamed veggies, I can't wait until I'm at that stage. How long after you were sleeved did you go back to work? And good luck with your new dating life! How exciting is that!!!!!

I will admit that yesterday was a particularly scant-eating day. I do focus on getting enough Protein generally though b/c I'm scared about losing my hair. Today, I had a lowfat yogurt, a soup (home made butternut squash soup), and I'll have salmon for dinner. I really want that scale to move, darn it! :thumbdown:

I was allowed cream soups as well. So originally , I stocked up on a bunch of “sipping Bone broths” they had them in all different flavors like a chicken, rosemary and lemon , Chinese 5 spice or something like that. I also bought miso broth to switch it up a bit . I did end up getting tired of those and so I reached out to my nutritionist and tried to get a better idea on if it had to be clear liquids or as long as it’s liquid then it’s fine and threw out a few examples for approval . She pretty much said it’s fine , as long as it’s liquid and as long as you “LOSE WEIGHT” just like that in caps lol . From that point on, I puréed my own vegetable soups and lentil soup , I bought different Tomato soups , a butternut squash and sweet potato soup. It was a game changer at that point so i would definitely find out more info as you get closer to see how strict the liquid diet for you will be .I know you mainly sound like you want soups to make at home but if interested here are a few other suggestions ! I bought sugar free popsicles the different colorful flavored ones lol AND the SF fudge pops! Those came in super handy when I was craving chocolate (which I NEVER do). I also got sugar free apple sauce , SF chocolate/vanilla puddings , SF Jello and oatmeal, non fat low sugar yogurt with honey and cinnamon . Of course , I bought all kind of premier protein shakes to test out my favorite flavors. I found these premeir protein clear drinks , quest (cookies N cream) protein shake soooo good!!! Then for water alternatives because trust me, you WILL get tired of water when it’s the only thing you can drink… I bought a bunch of different flavored crystal light packets such as a peach mango green tea and lemon Iced tea and they even had a large packets for pitchers and I got that in strawberry watermelon . I hope this helps!!!

I Use The Same Product Only I Buy Strawberry .. Didnt Care Much For The Chocolate. I Blend It With Frozen Straberries, Water And Sugar / Fat Free Yogurt For A Smoothie. It Is Costly However Because It Is Considered Medically Necessary I Have Been Able To Write It Off On My Taxes , So Keep Ur Receipts And Ask, As Well As All The Chewable Vitamens I Now Need

yogurt's easy! pour into jar with he culture, keepwarm for 8-12 hours. done! strain for another day if you are making greek yogurt. pretty darn easy. i love raw veggies, when can one xpect to be able to eat them post op?

Hello everyone, My surgery was June 24th. I was cleared for full liquids yesterday. I am allowed all Protein shakes, no fat yogurt, sugar free applesauce, sugar free pudding, cream Soups with no lumps, etc. I can't seem to swallow anything thicker than my Protein shake without feeling like a lump is in my throat for hours. I had 1/4 teaspoon of the applesauce earlier and immediately got the lump and nausea. I'm not sure how anyone else does it! Does this mean I probably just still have swelling and should stick to the shakes for now? I can swallow them just fine and fluids just fine. I haven't called the doc because I'm not in pain, I just can't get anything that seems like "food" down. Thanks for listening to me whine. Let me know if you experienced anything similar. Chelle

Hey there! Don't worry about asking questions... EVERYONE has a million questions before surgery and everyone is scared! Regarding the food I can eat. So far, there hasn't been anything I can't tolerate. There are a few things that go down better if there is sauce to make it more juicy. For example, when I eat chicken I usually make a yogurt sauce to dip it in. I also sometimes make Soup, and I eat the broth first, and wait a little bit before eating the solids--chicken is pretty tender when you cook it this way. As to your question about the number of calories, I'm not sure. The lowest I ever went before surgery was 1200 calories. Maybe your surgeon can give you some advice on this one.... As to the liquid diet, I had no problem with it, other than getting really bored and craving something savory. I ate a lot of Protein drinks and prayed for the mushy phase :-). I'm sure you could probably drink a latte (although we were told to stay away from caffeine early out, so I'd go with a decaffeinated latte maybe :-))I hope that helps! If it makes you feel any better, none of the things I was afraid of happened. I've had a really easy experience, and my restriction has been good, but I haven't had any of the typical problems that bandsters have like sliming, vomiting, and feeling stuck.... I hope that helps! Best of luck to you!

I am 8 days post-op and have had a very uneventful time. Except for the 5 small incisions on my stomach, and a copy of my leak test x-ray, I feel so darn good, I can't believe my body went thru all that it has. February 3rd: After arriving at the Florence Hospital after a nice ride from the airport with a friendly driver named Carlos I met Trish and Dr Kelly. I immediately felt at ease meeting these two. No time was wasted in prepping me for surgery. I had blood work, IV port inserted, blood pressure, temp taken, medical history. Then the cardiologist came in to ask a few questions and give me an ECG. Shortly after, around 5:30, I was wheeled down to the OR, where I saw Dr Kelly, the anesthesiologist, and the scrub nurse. Dr Kelly came over, held my hand and asked me if I was ready. I said "I am so ready for this". He warned me of the anesthetic going in and that is all I remember until I woke up in my room trying to pull the oxygen mask off my face. My mom was with me and I am so thankful. She had a full size bed to sleep in in my room and we had a private bath with shower. Also a TV on the wall with about 4 english speaking channels. She was able to eat 3 meals a day in the Oasis of Hope dining room. It is for the alternative cancer patients and their families and everything there was very healthy. No sugar, lots of veggies and fruit, very little meat and a couple of fruit/veggie juices available per day. The surgery went well with no complications. I was up walking around @ about 4 am Friday morning. The worst part for me was the IV pole and the nurses coming in several times in the night. I was nauseous a couple of times but only threw up once. Feb 4th: Spent the next day and evening sipping on ice and water, walking around, napping, getting regular doses of pain meds, anti nausea meds and antibiotics and chatting with my family on Skype and Facebook. <br style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><br style="text-indent: 0px !important; ">Feb 5th: The morning of my discharge, before I got discharged, my mom and I went for a walk down to the beach. It is only about 3 blocks from the Florence hospital. We put our feet in the ocean and it was awesome. They removed my drainage tube (weird feeling and little painful) and IV port just before they took me for my leak test Saturday around 11 am at the Angeles Hospital. The taste is gross. Have gum or breath strips handy and a water to pop in your mouth after you are done. That will help tremendously. Then we got checked in to the Lucerna. My mom and I walked down to the Rio del Plaza and shopped for about 3 hours. I bought some bandaids @ the Gusher Farmacia @ the Plaza. They are Nexcare in a green and white box. They are 50mm x 101 mm and there are 10 in a box. You will want to change your dressing and these are a good size but they gave me a horrible irritation. They are adhesive all around. You may want to get some Mepore dressings (available at our Walmart behind the pharmacy counter) and bring them with you. I purchased them before I went but never thought to bring them with me and really wish I would have had them. They are a nice soft gauze with adhesive all around but not irritation. Anyway, we had to take a cab back to our hotel because we had too many packages. LOL! Met up with Trish the moment we got out of the cab at the hotel, and she had my discharge package for me. She introduced me to some yummy chicken broth powder available at the Costco here. Try to get a hold of some. It is called MAGGI and it is sort of like OXO but has way more flavour. It is very tasty. So I asked if she could pick some up for me and I would pay her. She said she would just take us there, so we went to Costco Mexico. Very cool. Just like our Costco but the cafeteria is outside. <br style="text-indent: 0px !important; ">She then took us to Revolucion and we shopped a little over there. Got a smokin' good deal on some silver jewelry from a vendor that Trish knows. I was ready to walk away, when I told them I couldn't afford what they were offering and then they called me back in to give me a better deal. 2 earrings and a set of bracelets (bangle style) for $60. Originally wanted $180. This is a gift for my girls who wouldn't have appreciated the price, so I was tickled with that offer. My mom got a Jimmy Choo knockoff purse for $75. He originally was offering it to her at his best price of $145, haha. So fun! We walked lots and I felt so good. Not tired or sore or anything. Amazing!! I had such an awesome sleep in the hotel room our first night out of the hospital. Lucerna is a top notch hotel and the beds are really comfy. My mom woke me up @ 4:30 to tell me to roll over, that my snoring was keeping her awake, so it must've been a deep sleep. Feb 6th: Dr Kelly and Trish came by our room early on to check up on me and my incisions. Had a little visit then they left and mom and I walked to the mall again. We had missed alot of stores and had a few more gifts to buy. Again, I felt great. Mom and I had lunch at a nice restaurant in the mall. It was called California something or other and had a menu more familiar to us. You could have a fajita or cheeseburger. My mom had the buffet. I had soup. We walked around and shopped for a few hours, then walked back to our hotel. We had supper that evening with Trish and Dr Kelly and his little boy Richie. We had a nice visit and a good talk about some of the goings on with a certain patient coordinator. Feb 7th: Woke up at a decent time, showered, repacked and got ready to go home. We were able to sit out in the sun for about a half hour before our driver was there to pick us up. It was beautiful out. We were heading back to -30 C so we really enjoyed the heat of 25 C. AHHHHH! Very nice driver, had a nice visit while waiting to cross the border. His name was Jonaton. Got us to the airport and we had enough time to have a relaxing lunch @ Chili's before we had to board our plane. ADIOS Amigos! Like everyone else has said, walk, walk, walk. Try to get down to see the ocean if you can get someone to go with you. I was up in the middle of the night walking and I've had very little gas pain. Just a little in my chest that feels like a burp caught sideways. Nothing like people talk about with the pain in the shoulders etc... Eight days later and I'm still having a liquid diet except for yogurt. Getting bored with it and can't wait to move on to solids. I have had constipation and have been taking Benefibre and just picked up some Metamucil. Other than that I have nothing else exciting to tell you. It has been wonderful so far. I can't wait to start seeing some results.