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I think it's always Good to talk about GRIEF and anger. Yesterday I was driving around Houston Texas running errands and the overwhelming grief took hold. If anyone has visited Texas you know our food is TOP tier so much seasoning so much flavor. I grieve not pulling in the drive thru after shopping. (Taco Bell, What-A-Burger, Shipleys Donuts)! I GRIEVE OUR ever so plentiful TACO TRUCKS at 2am where I would order 10 street tacos and a burrito with the red/green sauce I grieve boba TEA I grieve the comforts I grieve just being able to drink alot at one time. Who knew that a few sips of Water could make you so full In noticing the griefs you become aware of how addicted you were to the food and the feeling. Sighs*

Has anyone ever gone to ALO Bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico? I’m interested in having the modified duodenal switch. Just wanted to know what your experience was like there. Any issues with the hospital? Did you feel safe having your procedure done there?

I got Cigna at the start of this year as my job switched insurance companies. My surgeons office was preparing me with steps toward surgery when I got a call today saying that bariactic surgery isn't covered under my plan. I feel so disappointed. Now what? How can I get coverage? Anyone experienced this? Sent from my SM-N970U1 using BariatricPal mobile app

Does anyone have any favorite products or suggestions of stuff I should try from the bariatric pal store? I have quite a few points saved up from posting on here and I was gonna order their vitamins to show my dr next month but I need to order more to get free shipping.

This year was An awesome YEAR ...8 months post op. I went from a full ugly cry at the counter because chicken would not go down right after surgery 😂😂 and grieving all the unhealthy food that I loved, to actually learning how to eat, loving my new body, eating with Intention and loving the the things I actually can eat. I have learned to cook foods that I enjoy and make it bariatric friendly. Who knew our food could taste that good! I had no idea I could continue to enjoy all the foods in a new way! Movement is an activity that I enjoy and aided in my rapid weight loss. I hope to continue to move, I hope to add new movement skills (hot yoga, rucking, boxing). What is your year ends review? What did you learn? Any setbacks? Anything you are looking forward to in the new year?

Now I know a lot of people will probably tell me off here, in that Halloween hasn't even happened, and I am talking about Christmas 🤣 BUT, I adore Christmas, and I realised that this will be my first Xmas post-surgery. Has anyone got any advice as to how to still feel included in all the festivities when so much revolves around food etc? I still feel excited for it, I just know it is going to be SO different to all the other years! 🎄

Where are all the pet parents! Has your new lifestyle impacted them as well? Do they help you exercise? Are they emotional support animals? Please post pics and stories about your favorite furry friend!

@SpartanMaker thanks for sharing I enjoyed this read and I'm glad you viewed happenings with a Renewed mindset. @Janina__sleevingitallbehind alright now 💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽. You go major win!

Hi all. Im 7 weeks post op as of today. I’m curious if anyone has hired an independent bariatric dietician… in other words, someone outside of your surgeon’s office to support you? I am not really satisfied with the level of support that I am getting from my surgeon’s office. I’d like at least a weekly or bi-weekly check in with someone and to discuss goals and things I can work towards. When I asked my surgeon’s office at my last follow up appointment if I was where I should be weight loss wise, I didn’t really get much of an answer. I asked where I should be at my three month follow-up and she couldn’t find her chart. So I never got an answer. I live in an area where I haven’t been able to find any support groups locally. I’ve located someone online with a wealth of experience in working with bariatric patients and is a certified dietitian. She works primarily online with patients. I am hesitant to move forward based on the price. Just curious if anyone has had luck with this or has any thoughts about it? I haven’t decided against it, just hesitant due to cost.

Eugh…I have to have 3-monthly blood tests as I have Methotrexate injections for Rheumatoid Arthritis. I’ve been on Methotrexate for 12 years now. Occasionally there’s a blip in my liver function test but this is generally when I’ve been unwell as the slightest thing can change my results. Anyway, I made a cock-up on my test 2 weeks ago. It was Bank Holiday Weekend and I had a couple of drinks on the Saturday and then more on the Sunday. I can count on one hand how many times we’ve been out this year and I don’t drink at home unless it’s a glass of champagne before we go out to dinner for example. Anyway, I wasn’t thinking and did my jab as normal on the Monday and then my bloods on the Tuesday. This resulted in a phone-call from a Rheumatology Nurse on Wednesday saying my liver function test levels were way, way up, what had I been doing? I was honest and said I’d been out at the weekend and had my jab when I should have left it a week and then had my bloods after. So, I had to miss the next two weeks jabs and have my bloods again which was yesterday. Phone-call today - levels have dropped some but still high. It was then a mass of questions - had I been drinking? No. Any infections? Not that I know of. Any ‘herbal’ ingestion (er…what???) No. Any NSAIDS? No. The list was endless and she sounded completely disbelieving of me, which has pissed me off no end. Could I miss my jab this week and have my bloods again on Monday? No. We’re out for our anniversary dinner on Sunday and there will be alcohol so it would be pointless. I did offer to have them on Friday but she said it wouldn’t be enough time for things to reduce. Now I have to have my bloods again in 2 weeks. It turns out that my levels have been creeping up for the past few months but no one had told me. She did tell me that the other things I’m tested for are all good (4 things in total so only be of them is bolloxed) I’m not happy, especially as I’ve been managing my condition and medication for 12 years. I drank more often earlier in my treatment and never had any issues. My worry is that this could affect my WLS journey. I know I may be worrying over nothing but the worry is still there. It may be that my liver has just had enough of the Methotrexate (as it’s a poison - lovely) and it’s time to stop it. Anyway, I’m not asking for advice, more a rant ☹️ I will now do some research on how to deal with toxins in the liver and how to reduce them. Sigh…

Has anybody had surgery in Mexico bariatric Center in Tijuana Mexico? Could you share your experience? Thinking abt getting a revision DS there.

Hello BariatricPal Community! We are thrilled to announce the launch of our latest product, specially designed for our amazing community of bariatric patients. Introducing the BariatricPal Prenatal & Postnatal Bariatric Multivitamin with Mint Tab Insert! Why We Created This Multivitamin: We understand that bariatric patients have unique nutritional needs, especially during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Our new multivitamin is formulated to provide the comprehensive nutritional support that you and your baby need during this critical time. Key Features and Benefits: Comprehensive Nutrient Profile: Our multivitamin is packed with essential vitamins and minerals to support maternal health and fetal development: Vitamins: High levels of vitamins A, C, D, E, and B complex to support energy, immunity, and overall health. Minerals: Includes iron, magnesium, zinc, and other essential minerals to support bone health, blood health, and metabolic functions. Additional Nutrients: Contains DHA and other essential fatty acids for fetal brain development and maternal health. Enhanced Support: Includes Vitamin K2 and Choline Bitartrate for additional nutritional benefits. Bariatric-Specific Formulation: Designed for women who have had bariatric surgery, ensuring optimal absorption and utilization of nutrients. Mint Tab Insert for Freshness: Say goodbye to unpleasant vitamin odors! Our multivitamin is the first bariatric prenatal multivitamin to include a mint tab insert. This innovative feature infuses your vitamins with a refreshing peppermint scent, making daily intake a more enjoyable experience. Most Affordable Option: We are proud to offer the most cost-effective bariatric prenatal multivitamin without compromising on quality. Dietary-Friendly: Gluten-free, Dairy-Free, Soy-Free – perfect for those with dietary restrictions. High-Quality Manufacturing: Produced in a cGMP-certified Facility, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards. Designed For: Women before, during, and after pregnancy, especially those who have undergone weight loss surgeries such as RNY Gastric Bypass, Gastric Sleeve, Duodenal Switch, and other malabsorptive procedures. Directions for Use: Take 2 capsules daily, preferably with meals or as directed by your healthcare professional. With the BariatricPal Prenatal & Postnatal Bariatric Multivitamin with Mint Tab Insert, you can be confident that you are providing the best care for your and your baby's health during this critical time. We are incredibly excited to share this new product with you and look forward to hearing your feedback. Together, we can make your pregnancy journey healthier and more enjoyable! Check it out on our store here.

I'm preOP. After reading form the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) Manual of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (December 2024) I am confused by the diet supplement recommendations there which are very different than those from my program which they say are from ASMBS (and of course different than the statements of the vitamin sellers). The SAGES Manual of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery says 1 or 2 regular multivitamins, calcium citrate 1200-1500, 2000-3000 IU vitamin D, at least 18 mg of iron, at least 12 mg of B1, and 350-500 mcg B12. I talked to dietician from my program today and she admitted they recommend the bariatric vitamin to everyone to keep things simple and she said it helped with compliance. I kinda feel misled because. The bariatric vitamins are not cheap, and aside from the calcium, Kirkland or Equate multi-vitamins with iron, a B1, and B12 would meet the basic needs per the SAGES Manual. The price of those three pills for a year costs as much as one month of some of the bariatric specific multivitamin supplements (not including Calcium Citrate).

At 65 - I am happier, healthier and slimmer than when in college! And, I will be a much smaller bride for 30th anniversary + vow renewal this April. Congratulations to all who took this courageous journey as an older adult! You are to be celebrated. Keep up the good fight...

Hi all, my name is Kevin, and I'm new to this board. I just signed up because, for the first time, I think I have a story to share. I've been reading on this board for months as I've been weighing surgical possibilities, and now it's weird being on the other side. I did my gastric sleeve with Renew Bariatics in Tijuana about 4 months back, and I'm at -82 lbs to date. If you're undecided or on the fence—believe me, I'm there. I wasted YEARS jumping around, attempting every diet, every exercise craze, every miracle pill. Nothing held. I'd lose 20 lbs and gain 30. I was at my all-time high last year at 312 lbs, and it started affecting every area of my life—my knees hurt all the time, my energy level was zero, and quite frankly, I just didn't know who I was anymore. I eventually made the decision after my first doctor quite kindly suggested WLS. Insurance here in the US would take an eternity with all the pre-reqs, so I investigated Mexico (fairly skeptically at first). But Renew Bariatrics would keep coming up in every search, and I started watching videos, reading testimonials, even stalking threads here. I ended up deciding to go for it. The Tijuana experience was much better than I expected. The hospital was clean, the staff were nice and genuinely professional, and they were very organized. I went alone (which intimidated me), but I never at any point felt in danger. My coordinator was responsive and the time to prepare me ahead of time, like what to bring and how the day would go every time. Surgery day was actually a blur. I was terrified of heck, but the surgical team made me feel comfortable and at ease. I had no severe complications—only some expected gas pain for a couple of days. The hardest part? The adjustment in my mind afterward. Eating slowly, learning to stop when full, and knowing that food wasn't going to be my crutch anymore took work. Still does. But here's the thing—I got my life back. I can move again. I sleep better at night. I walk into rooms upright. I've still got a long way to go, but this has made such an amazing difference, and I'm glad that I pushed the limits and gave it a try. If you're considering Renew or just need to talk to someone who's gone through it, go ahead and comment or contact me. I recall how valuable it was reading actual people's posts when I was still on the fence. Happy to return the favor. Thanks for reading my long tale—I'm happy to be here!

For bariatric patients, whey isolate is often better due to faster absorption and higher protein purity, but bone broth protein is gentler on digestion and collagen-rich.

Girl mine are drooping down now as we speak 😂😂....Wait you posted them on bariatric pals?

Yes, it's Bariatric Fusion brand that I used, NOT Bariatric Pal! Bariatric Fusion chicken soup is 27g protein, 10g carb (check with your team because their guidelines say less than 10g carb but they may be okay with it being 10g) and 160 calories. The Cappuccino flavor is 27g protein, 8g carb and 150 calories. I bought mine from Amazon and a tub runs around $45. All the flavors on Amazon fit the guidelines with the possible exception of the chicken soup. Celebrate also makes a meal replacement shake with several flavors that work with your guidelines, but their chicken soup is 24g protein instead of 25g (carbs and calories are within the guidelines). I tried that one and it was okay. I liked the Bariatric Fusion slightly more, but the benefit of the Celebrate brand is you can buy a variety pack directly from their website with 12 single serving envelopes of different flavors so you don't get bored. I also like their Tropical Twist flavor chewable bariatric vitamins if you're still looking for one, and their cherry and raspberry lemonade calcium chews are very tasty.

I'm currently debating proteins with my husband. LOL He's sold on bone broth protein powder, but I keep reading about whey isolate. Which is better for bariatric patients??

I recently came across this expected weight loss calculator/predictor: SOPHIA Bariatric Weight Trajectory Prediction. Thought it was pretty neat! Sounds like you’re off to a great start!

So what is a bariatric plan friendly way to drink decaff coffee? So before getting myself weaned off caffeine I enjoyed cold brew coffee with vanilla creamer. My surgeon does not allow caffeine after surgery (or at least for awhile). So I have already got myself drinking decaf cold brew with a splash of sugar free creamer. What does everyone drink in their coffee that is bariatric plan friendly? Also yes I know everyones plan is different but Id like to hear ideas.

There's really no reason for your insurance company to deny coverage here. While gastric bypass is obviously performed for weight loss, that's not the only reason. There are normal weight people that sometimes have it done for various issue like severe GERD and issues with gastric emptying. My point is that even though we think of it as a bariatric procedure, in your case, you need it purely for medical reasons. They can't deny it on the basis that they don't cover bariatric surgery, since that's not why you need the surgery.

The BariatricPal Store carries a huge selection of Bariatric-friendly Protein drinks at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders. Here are some popular options: * Inspire Protein Powders by Bariatric Eating: These are my personal fave and can be found at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/inspire-protein * BariatricPal Protein ONE: MultiVitamin, Calcium, Iron, Fiber & Meal Replacement from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/brand_bariatricpal * Syntrax Nectar Protein Powder Sampler Variety Bag - All 17 Flavors! from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/syntrax-nectar-protein-powder-sampler-variety-bag-all-17-flavors * GENEPRO Medical Grade Unflavored Protein Powder - 3rd Generation! from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/genepro/products/genepro-medical-grade-unflavored-protein-powder-3rd-generation * Bariatric Advantage HPMR High Protein Meal Replacement - Available in 8 Flavors! from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/bariatric-advantage-high-protein-meal-replacement * Protein tubs from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powder-tubs * Protein Smoothies from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/smoothies * Hot Protein Drinks & Soups are great alternatives to protein shakes: * Hot Protein Drinks: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/hot-protein-drinks * Hot Protein Soups: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/soups-bouillons-broths