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Just really need some encouragement if anyone will
NickelChip replied to Dchonlee's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I think the best encouragement I can offer is to help manage your expectations. WLS is a treatment with results measured in months and years, not days. For perspective, my day of surgery weight was only 6 lbs higher than yours. I am 4 months post op as of tomorrow and I hit 189 lbs...yesterday. That's 17 weeks to lose 34 pounds. And I promptly bounced up to 190 this morning. Barely eating anything has very little bearing on how much weight you will lose in the beginning. Your body is going through some stuff. Like, a lot of stuff. We don't even know the half of all the systems that are recalibrating in the first weeks and months. Calories in and calories out is just not a useful equation to describe what is happening to you right now. The weight on the scale is a single data point, but it doesn't even tell you what type of weight you have lost. Fat? Water? Muscle? No idea! And the smart scales aren't actually very smart because they give you averages, not actual measurements. I only lost 2.8 lbs the entire month of May, but I went down a dress size and a bra size during that time. Then I lost 10lbs in 2 weeks. Why? Who knows! So, for long term sanity, I suggest focusing on the things you can control and not worrying about what you can't. Focus on meeting protein and fluid targets. Add in a sustainable exercise routine (for me, that is just walking consistently every week). Do some reading and watch videos about good bariatric nutrition (I recommend The Pound of Cure videos on YouTube to start with). Collect and try new recipes as you move through the food stages. Take your measurements and a monthly progress photo. You may see the changes better in photos than you do by looking at yourself in a mirror. Basically, you are only 2 weeks into a 52-week-plus journey. You'll get there, but it will take time. And you will drive yourself crazy if you're like the kid in the backseat asking yourself "Are we there yet?" from the minute you pull out of the driveway. -
Thank you! I’ll for sure go back to just protein shakes
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Just really need some encouragement if anyone will
Dchonlee posted a topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
So I’m two weeks postop and I know that’s early but I went from 217 to currently being 189. I know everyone’s like you have to give it time “Be patient” but emotionally., i wish that results were more rapid. I’ve been at 189 for three days and I barely eat anything. I enjoyed tomato soup recently, but the creaminess of it, kind of upset my stomach so it just feels like protein shakes are the only thing that will help and sustain me. I guess I’m writing for some support and encouragement that in time I’ll see more changes. The 28 pound difference did make me happy and I want to continue to see changes, but I guess I’m just not being patient enough. Please share some support😔 here. -
Okay, so it's very common to have a stall, and they can last several weeks. It's not because of anything you're doing, and aside from just stopping to assess that you are still following your plan in a reasonable way, there's nothing you can do to change it. Are you hitting your protein goals? Getting your hydration? Eating on a regular schedule and prioritizing your protein and non-starchy veggies? Sticking to a reasonable portion size by using a small saucer or luncheon plate? Avoiding empty calories in the form of sugary drinks, simple carbs, and snacking or grazing? Getting some basic movement every day, like going for a walk or using resistance bands? If no to any of these, focus on changing that issue. If yes, try not to panic. You will likely start losing again soon, but possibly slower than before because that's just how it works. In the meantime, take your measurements or try on some clothing to see if it fits differently. I recently had a month of very slow loss, just 2.8 lbs in 4 weeks with so much up and down. But my clothing fit differently and my measurements were getting smaller. All of a sudden, I lost 10 lbs in 3 weeks. I did nothing differently.
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2 weeks post op with minimum restriction and present hunger
pattsirikos2000@yahoo.com replied to KaterinaC's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
If you feel hungry grab a tsp of peanut butter. It helps and you get some protein. Dietitian just told me that yesterday I am 4 weeks post op -
I lived on strained Heinz soups at that stage -- especially cream of chicken, cream of mushroom, cream of broccoli. If you can handle the acidity of tomatoes, cream of tomato is super satisfying. I also really enjoyed the BariatricPal Bacon & Cheddar dry soup mix and ProtiDiet Chicken soup mix. I wasn't able to finish either of them by the time I was out of the liquid stage, but both made a great protein additive during the puree stage, and a good dip / sauce when I was entering the soft stage. Both were fairly salty to my taste buds at the liquid stage, but a little extra water helped.
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The start of my new healthy life
JennyBeez replied to Theweightisover2024🙌💪's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
For me, it was important to get past the snacking hurdle pretty much cold turkey. My willpower is great after two to three weeks of a new routine -- but before that every minute is torturous. I think all my scheduled 'snacks' for the first month post-op were all like "half a protein shake" and "half a protein bar" lol. Now I'm finally able to snack healthily or with 'planned indulgences' (most of which I still try to make as healthy as possible, because I backslide too easily / get addicted to things very quickly). Last week I found a healthy quinoa puff (with no added oils / ingredients) at my local bulk food store, and toasting them up in a pan with some curry powder has become my new evening indulgence -- sometimes with a few peanuts or edamame thrown in. Ridiculously satisfying without throwing me off track. I've also found some baby snacks that are crazy-clean when it comes to fats/carbs/sugars, and they taste super plain but that's where my own seasonings come in. Baby Gourmet Cheesy Broccoli Puffies are made with quinoa and lentils, and one bag will last me for 3-5 snacks so I don't mind the price so much. -
Monday Check-In
JennyBeez replied to Bypass2Freedom's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
I used to hate seafood other than salmon, butterfish and shrimp. Scallops had to be wrapped in bacon, lobster was just an excuse to eat something slathered in salty garlic butter for me -- and even shrimp, if it wasn't sauteed in that same salty garlicky butter or smothered in shrimp sauce, I just couldn't do it. But now I'm actively enjoying the flavours of various seafood items all on their own. I barely glance at most soy sauces if I go out for sashimi/sushi -- and I'm enjoying a far more varieties of fish and seafood than I used to. I don't know how much of this is the taste-bud change post-op, or just breaking old habits long enough to get the full experience of other flavours -- but I'm loving it. (I also crave fish much more often than any red meat or poultry. I'll eat the other proteins, but when I'm sitting at work in the morning it's the "Oooooh, I should call the fam and get someone to take the frozen cod out to thaw" and never "shoot, I forgot to the steak.") Summer-wise, I always seem to just want cold juicy fruits and veg. I could live on cold green grapes if they weren't so bad for my diabetes. My neighbour brought over a huge stash of snap peas and celery from her son's farm, so there's been a lot of crunchy raw peas in my life this week. -
I finally have a date.
NickelChip replied to ShoppGirl's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
So happy for you! Congratulations on the date, and on making the decision on surgery after a lot of research. I know you really have looked into it and weighed your options over the past several months, which is really good. Now that it's set, definitely take the next several weeks to get in the right headspace. You know how important that is, having been down a similar road before. And I think this time will be different for you. You know what you're up against, and I think you've given a lot of thought to where things went wrong before. That's a valuable lesson learned. This time you're getting one of the most powerful metabolic interventions available. That alone will make a huge difference in the outcome. Just remember that you're going to make mistakes, and that's okay. A mistake is not failure, and it's not a reason to give up! Keep checking in with your support people (including here!) and don't demand perfection of yourself because nobody is perfect. If you can do it right 80-90% of the time, you will be doing the very best you can expect, and it will be good enough to succeed in time. And success takes time. You'll get there. -
February surgery buddies 🥰
NickelChip replied to Jessica Marie's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
Things have been going well! After some very slow weight loss in late April thru May, June is really looking up. With my 4-month mark just a few days away, I'm down about 61 lbs from my highest weight, which includes 35lbs since my actual surgery. I'm looking forward to hitting the "overweight not obese" milestone soon, just 5lbs to go! And 35lbs to go until I reach my weight goal! My hair thinning is just starting. My hairdresser styled it a bit shorter when I went yesterday and she'll suggest a new style if it becomes needed. But it's not too bad yet. Thankfully, I don't have any issues hitting protein and water targets. I usually have a protein shake in the morning to start the day and I put around a cup of Fairlife skim milk in my 32oz morning decaf tea, so that's 36g protein before I even have food, which I do a few hours after I get up. I can eat around 15-20g protein when it's solid food. I like Greek yogurt with berries and nuts for breakfast and often do a salad with chicken strips for lunch. Dinner is all sorts of things. The protein shake I use is Syntrax Nectar Natural in orange flavor, which vaguely reminds me of orange TANG. It feels sort of like having a glass of orange juice, enough to not be too weird in the morning before I'm fully awake. The rest of the flavors are just disgusting, although I am okay mixing a scoop of vanilla with some frozen pineapple and a splash of water or milk in a blender to make a frozen treat on a hot day. I do have about 1x a week issues with vomiting, triggered by different foods each time but usually either due to eating too fast or something being too dry. It's hard because a single bite can trigger it so it's very unforgiving. I've started carrying a small hospital-style vomit bags (found on Amazon) in my car and purse so that I won't be caught in an uncomfortable situation in public.. So far, I haven't needed them, but it makes me feel better to have it with me. I'm going on vacation next week and planning to bring along some protein bars and easy snacks like roasted edamame and beef jerky (which I found in 50-calorie packs at Dollar Tree). Once I'm home, I'm hoping to do some meal prep and try some new recipes because food is getting boring and kind of a chore. I don't really experience any hunger, so remembering to eat and making myself eat regularly is a nuisance. -
February surgery buddies 🥰
Jessica Marie replied to Jessica Marie's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
How are all of my fellow February peeps doing?? Hitting that 4-month post op was very exciting! I'll be honest, I struggle almost daily with my protein intake. I try, but usually only hit 40grams. I'm looking into what else I can add to make it closer to 70grams. Water intake is usually on point. The hair loss though...that **** is rough! Hopefully were on the tail end of that now. I can definitely tell a difference in my energy levels, I can't wait to get up and get moving most days now. I look healthier, cloths fit better, I just have a new outlook on life I feel like -
Any savory ideas for post op liquid phase? Panera broccoli soup is nice but anything else?
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Here are 8 ways to curb your cravings during intermittent fasting. 1. Plan ahead 2. Start with a small goal 3. Drink more water 4. Increase your protein intake 5. Focus on fiber rich foods 6. Make sure you are getting enough sleep 7. Slow down and eat mindfully 8. Keep yourself busy and distracted Here is an article about 8 ways to curb your cravings during intermittent fasting https://scitechdaily.com/8-ways-to-curb-cravings-during-intermittent-fasting/. I hope this helps you.
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August Surgery buddies
Singingbarista replied to Averdra's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Hi everyone! I'm scheduled for August 13, RNY. I started at 361 lbs. and joined a weight-loss clinic 18 months ago, where they put me on something similar to the LSD. I lost about 80 lbs. and then my body decided my set point was around 270, so surgery is next. I've been trolling this site for quite a while, even when I was wondering if I should get the surgery in the first place. To prepare, I've been experimenting with the recipes that people post, and trying various products/shakes/vitamins that have been recommended by this group and my local support group, to see what options I like. I've also been collecting items for post-surgery, like a magic bullet and small silverware, things from the list my surgical team gave me. I tend to over-prepare to cope with stress, and this is a biggie. I'm also trying to figure out what hobbies I can distract myself with post-op - any suggestions? -
Hi other newbie here! Pre op was difficult during those periods for me too. As I'm sure nuts/surgeons and everyone here repeats a billion times (lol) protein helps you stay fuller longer, so up your protein even pre op to help keep sated and if you haven't already- avoid caffeine and sugar *now*, they can worsen hunger cravings. I cut both cold turkey and would reach for a protein bar if I had a snack attack. But I think the most helpful was people distracting me from hunger. Get out more, get busy with a task that requires your focus, socialize more, do anything to keep your mind off it. If you're stationary and doing something like playing video games or reading, that hunger sneaks up on you real quick! I also recommend this post surgery (but don't do anything your bariatric team says not to!), as being active and busy distracted me during the healing process and some phase struggles. Hope this helps!
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Monday Check-In
NickelChip replied to Bypass2Freedom's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
That's what I was planning, and as much as I despise them at this point, I'll bring some single-serve protein shake packets, too. Those are easy to mix in a water bottle and carry along. -
February 2024 Surgery Buddies?
LisaCaryl replied to NickelChip's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Thank you so much for mentioning this podcast. I had to go to town to have blood drawn this morning, and I started listening to them. I started with the finale, and oh my gosh, they made me cry. When one talks about the best part of the journey so far and describes the thoughts she had as an obese person. I just lost it. I'll be 69 years old next week, and when I think about the hours of my life lost in "obese thoughts," it really hurts. Things like "Am I the largest woman in the room?" "What will the poor person next to me on the airplane think?" "Will I be able to sit at all comfortably in that chair?" "Will I break that plastic chair?" "Do I have to find sturdier beach chairs?" "What are they thinking of me?" etc... the thoughts have been never-ending and all-consuming at times. I'm going to go back and listen to more of their podcasts. Thanks again! @NickelChip Yay on the weight coming off again! So exciting, I'm really happy for you. I can understand the not being interested in food. There are times I even dread it. I try to shop for things that I like and they sound good in the store, but when it comes time to eat, I'm usually apathetic about it. Good luck with your vacation. I found some protein bars I like, but they will melt sadly. In case you haven't tried them, they are https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C4V2ML1C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 -
Monday Check-In
JennyBeez replied to Bypass2Freedom's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
Can you sneak some protein bars or packets of roasted edamame or something in your bag, just to make sure you've got some healthier protein options -- just in case you find there's not much there to suit you? Or even keep some low sodium V8 juice in your hotel room -- even if it just makes you feel better about having had 'A Vegetable' at the end of the day. I know a lot of places don't 'allow' outside food but as a recent surgery patient maybe they'll give you more lenience (or maybe they can be tucked under a towel lol). Hahaha YES! I've taken to stashing vanilla-scented dog waste bags in my purse in case of a tummy-temper-tantrum. XD -
Thank you @SleeveToBypass2023 @Bypass2Freedom and @JennyBeez for your kind, supportive comments. All are very much appreciated 😄 @SleeveToBypass2023 I know my carbs are a little high but they are around half of what they were a couple of weeks ago! I’m trying to reduce the amount slowly but surely. I have to be careful as I did high protein/low carb around 12 years ago and lost 8.5 stones. Unfortunately this wasn’t sustainable for me which resulted in gaining back the loss and a couple of extra stones, just because I could 🙄 I need to try and find a balance between carbs and protein so it’s a constant work in progress at the moment. @Bypass2Freedom 💜 @JennyBeez oh, it’s definitely a learning experience! I’m happy that I didn’t end up sabotaging myself by listening to that little voice saying ‘it’s not working, have a pizza/chocolate bar/bag of crisps to make you feel better’. These small wins will all add up to something more substantial, I know they will. Salt is a sneaky little thing but it will remind me to be more aware. I will be glad to have my dietitian appointment in August, just to discuss everything. I’m weighing and recording everything that goes in my mouth on the Nutracheck app. I’ve changed how my nutrient choices are recorded so it shows my salt intake now, as well as carb, protein and calories so I can make adjustments as and when I need to. I would love to be someone who doesn’t have to think about food!
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Amp protein in SF pudding
JennyBeez replied to Fars's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Bone broth powder into any broth / soup is a big help. Unsweetened peanut butter powder into fat free plain greek yogurt or pudding can give you an extra boost -- or like @FifiLux suggests, make your own pudding-style treat with jello flavouring and a yogurt base. The sour / tangy taste of plain yogurt can make sweetened powders more palatable, and you can use less than required since you don't really need it for thickening (especially if you start with a greek yogurt base -- very thick already). Depending on your program, you might be able to have cottage cheese on liquid diet? Mine did, and it was already a great dose of protein but added a scoop of unflavoured whey and some savory spices was a nice change from faux sweetness. If you find a clear / water soluble protein powder, you can drink it diluted so it's not as strong and throw in a little squeeze of lemon or lime juice. V8 / tomato juice is another good option. I had a rough time mixing unflavoured protein powder into it without clumping, but chicken bone broth powder mixed with a little hot water before adding it to the tomato juice worked well for me. -
The start of my new healthy life
JennyBeez replied to Theweightisover2024🙌💪's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
(I love your username!) I feel like the majority of us turned to WLS as a last resort after many other WL-options didn't work out for us. I've done WW, Dr Bernstein, raw diets, different drugs, intermittent fasting, all sorts of fad diets / cleanses, etc. I feel you. This is different. This is a diet not as a noun, but as a verb -- a healthy way of eating for life. This resets our hormonal responses to food. It gives us a blank slate to re-learn those healthy habits of portion control, of prioritizing nutrients, etc. It gives us the opportunity to look at our old habits and realize we don't need them anymore. It gives us a jumpstart into weight loss so we start off with great momentum / kicking ass. Good luck to you -- but you don't need it. Good mindset is all you need. -
Calling all hair gods! And hormonal acne
JennyBeez replied to Erin18's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I've heard / read that the dead parts died during the trauma of surgery, and it was only a matter of time for them to fall out. All we can really do is take care of the new growth --- aka protein-protein-protein, fluids, taking the post-op supplements & vitamins, being gentle on your hair, etc. My hairdresser suggested moisturizing shampoo/conditioner, said to stay away from most volumizing treatments as most of them work by drying out your hair which could make it more brittle. (She also said that most hairstyling products -- gels, hair sprays, mousse -- are going to do the same thing and if I could just bear with it while my hair is looking thin and limp, it'll be much healthier for the new growth to avoid those products until my body has re-regulated itself. That said, I'm early into my hair loss / thinning and it sounds like timing-wise you're coming out of it -- so maybe not a problem for you.) -
Calling all hair gods! And hormonal acne
SleeveToBypass2023 replied to Erin18's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I can suggest biotin, and maybe try Nutrafol, but honestly, the best thing is PROTEIN, PROTEIN, PROTEIN. Your hair needs it to grow but can't produce it. Also, try doing what I did. I know for some people this is an emotional thing, but honestly, get your hair cut. My hair was long, brittle, split ends galore, dry. It was down to by breasts. I got it cut to where it just touches the tops of my shoulders and not only did my natural waves come back, but my hair looks fuller, healthier, and no more split ends. Here's a before and after, for reference: -
Ok, so a couple of things. First, let's look at things a little differently when it comes to that pound you lost. You LOST A POUND!!! Which means you DIDN'T GAIN A POUND!!!! WooHoo!!!! Sometimes, we have to remind ourselves that ANY loss is still a success. Some weeks will be better than others. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Next, you know where you went wrong with the foods you ate, you know you retain water when you have too much salt, so now you know what to avoid. Sometimes, the best way to learn is by trial and error. There's nothing wrong with experimenting with new foods. Just read the labels carefully and make adjustments accordingly to how much of that food you eat and what you eat the rest of the day to compensate for it. Finally, if I were to make a suggestion, I might say to lower your carbs a bit. That seems like a pretty high amount, and unless you're carb loading for intense workouts, I don't think you need to be over 100 carbs per day. PERSONALLY for me, I never go over 50, and that's on weight training days. But again, that's me. It just works out the best for my body. But I, too, had to experiment until I found the sweet spot for my body in regards to calories, carbs, healthy fats, protein. All in all, give yourself some grace, take note of what your body did and didn't do this week, and make changes as needed. You're still doing great, and you'll get to where you want to be. Don't worry about that.
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February 2024 Surgery Buddies?
NickelChip replied to NickelChip's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
@BlueParis depending how much milk you're using in tea and coffee, that's a decent source of protein. I don't know if you have ultra-filtered milk available in France (in US, the brand is Fairlife, like the protein shakes, but it's just milk that has been filtered to lower carbs and amp up the protein, not supplemented like the shakes). I started buying Fairlife milk and make a 1L thermal container of hot tea every morning, with between 125 and 250ml of milk in it, so my morning tea alone gives me between 7 and 13g protein. I would try adding a slice of smoked salmon to the bagel, but that's just because I love that combo. The omelet seems very healthy and the pannacotta sounds delicious. You might consider adding more beans/legumes to your rotation. I am getting so tired of meat. I've just ordered a vegan cookbook to help me discover new recipes that are based on plant proteins (not the fake meat, processed plant products but real foods). Maybe bean soups and stews, lentil curries? Your stall will break eventually, but in your case, because you're already at a "normal" BMI, it may be a lot harder and slower from here on out. Don't lose hope! After barely losing weight the entire month of May, I'm losing at the quickest pace since surgery, 9 lbs in 16 days! That's been a real surprise. I am eyeing my next milestone, which is 5.6 lbs away, the point where I will cross from an "obesity" BMI into just the "overweight" category. I have never looked so forward to being called "overweight" in my life! I'm also noticing I'm just not very interested in food. Even though I can technically eat a bit more now than in the beginning, I don't really want to. I'm not hungry and chewing is a chore. I'm sick of meat. I'm tired of thinking about protein. And while I do still enjoy going out for a meal, I am exhausted by looking at the plate and seeing 4 days' worth of food in front of me. I'll be going on a family summer vacation next week and have no idea what I'll manage to eat. We're going to amusement parks and water parks, so the typical fare will be pizza and hot dogs, which sound terrible. I'm stocking up on protein bars, which I find a bit better than shakes, though not something I want in my diet normally. But better than a hot dog! So if anyone has a favorite protein bar, especially one that won't melt in my bag on a hot day at an amusement park, please share!
