There is a wealth of info about what to take to the hospital but not sure where to find anything about what I'll need at home. Is there anything special like shakes, smoothies,,foods that I will need to stock up on now? I don't know anything about this part of the process so anything anyone wants to share would be helpful.

Hi,

I am preparing for the VSG also. I am trying all kinds of proteins now to see what I like instead of trying to deal with it after surgery while not feeling my best. I want to be repaired ahead of time. My favorite so far is a fruit smoothie. Frozen strawberries, frozen bananas and apple juice. No need for ice because the fruit is frozen. Its a delicious mushy food that you can add a little protein powder if you want to. I suggest the unflavored whey protein because it doesn't alter the flavor of what you are drinking as much. I intend on trying ALL the flavored Isopure drinks also but haven't yet. You can get them online or the GNC. I also ordered a variety pack of Nectar from MyBariatricPantry.com. I heard they are really good. I have heard it is so important to get your daily protein for nutrition, the healing process and minimal hair loss for the first few months. Good Luck and keep us posted.

Don't stock up much pre-op. Your tastes and what your tummy can tolerate can change. Try to just get small amounts or sample packs and then buy more post-op. One thing I wanted after surgery was two large nighties. My tummy was sore and I didn't want anything around it. If you don't already have it, measuring cups, small spoon, food scale is handy.

Lynda

Thank you, ladies. What brand shakes, soups,,smoothies..there are so many. I don't know what to choose.

I can't stand the Protein shakes post op! The first 10 days I lived on gatorade and chicken broth. Once on pureed foods it was mashed potatoes and gravy and scrambled eggs. And everything had to be room temperature. I couldn't stand hot or cold in my stomach. Now that I'm on mushy foods, I'm trying to broaden my palate, but its not easy.

My stomach can't stand yogurt, sour cream, Protein drinks and my Vitamins. I literally get nauseas and sometimes even heave.

I hope you have someone who can run to the store for you for the first week or so after surgery. I was lucky in that even though I had stocked up on those protein drinks, my husband understood and would run to the store for more Gatorade and broth when I ran out.

Just listen to your body and good luck!

Baby spoon, small bowl to eat from, chicken and beef broth, decaf coffee (if you drink coffee), Water, small glass(es), SF popsicles and SF Jello if you are allowed. eggs were my main food once I started mushies. I also bought potted meat, tuna, and a couple of cans of chicken breast for purees. I used the tuna and the potted meat.

Make sure you have a heating pad and some ice packs available if you are prone to pain. I agree with the poster who said large nightgowns and I suggest that you have a slightly large sports bra. The top incision can get itchy from a regular lacy bra...and the room in the sports bra allows you to stow the drain bottle in there if you have one. My chest is too big for me to be comfy without the bra, but I had three well-worn cotton sports bras that were perfect. They've since been retired because they are way too big.

A food scale is a great tool. As for food, whatever your doc allows: greek yogurt, milk/soy milk/almond milk, a blender for Protein shakes. At least two flavors of Protein Powder you like (vanilla and espresso for me). A nice mug that can go in the microwave is helpful for drinking broth and shakes.

You will find that your tastes change after surgery, especially if you've been on liquids for several days. Sweet stuff just did not sit well with me after surgery. YMMV.

Good luck on your journey!!