Having been here a few months now, it’s become obvious that it’s so different for people having weight loss surgery in the UK. Procedures here before WLS is different. Most of the people over the pond have it through their insurance and this means a lot of pre operation meetings/assessments/work, over many months. In some ways I feel this is good, as people get to learn so much before having their surgery. However that’s not the usual way here in the UK. You tend to learn ‘in the moment’. If you are eligible for WLS through the National Health Service, you may have to wait for a long time, 2 to 3 or up to 10 years unless you are at the stage where your weight is life or death. So, many fund it themselves.

I think this site is excellent for advice and support however it does mainly tend to show what happens in the States, where you can buy certain things and what’s available. So here’s a few things (not exclusive, would love it if others add stuff here too) I have learnt in my very short weeks since surgery.

PLEASE can we all add our own likes/dislikes, UK advice etc etc

1. Bariatric cookery books are excellent however there are many other options to learn about pre and post op foods. My dietitian is great but I have learnt so much through researching online. There are so many Bariatric Centres all over the world showing what you can eat pre ad post op and as long as you add a dash of common sense, it can work well. For example; if I read from a Bariatric Centre that I could eat tuna on day 3, I would be clicking the X asap!!

1. Centrum advantage chewable Vitamins are lovely and recommended by UK Dietitians for post bariatric surgery. Tesco’s have them on offer at the moment, 3 for 2. They have carbs, but balancing a few carbs for nice tasting vitamins isn’t going to kill me for the time being.

1. Keep your fridge/cupboard stocked once you know what goes down well for you. Don’t spend too much in advance in case you don’t like it. I spent a lot on liquid Iron without asking around and my god, it was disgusting. I took it twice then threw it away. I could have asked here and go advice but I didn’t. (see below)

1. Use this UK forum to keep in touch with others in the UK to ask for and pass on advice. We aren’t the minority in the world for WLS however we are a small group here. Make friends here, they can be the best support you can ask for!

OVER TO YOU !!!

What a good idea Kate. I would say don't go mad buying lots of little plastic containers . If you haven't got kitchen scales for food weighing buy some now. Might be a good idea to try and find a protein drink you like . I spent a fortune on lots of different ones all vile !

Check in with bariatric pal it's a great forum

@chrisredjeep

Its a shame they don't do samples in the UK, like they do elsewhere. Would save a lot of money in the long run. I think I was just lucky with mine, I loved them pre op and I am still loving them now.

What protein drinks did you go with....have used protein powder with water when personal training and liked the taste but not suRe if these would provide all nutrients?

@@sam42

I used Optimum Nutrition and usually get it from Amazon, although if you shop around you might find it cheaper. I loved it before the surgery and still love it. I usually have double chocolate or milk chocolate. It's quite sweet so I mix it with 8 oz of Water and it always keeps me satisfied.

Great idea, I live in Northern Ireland have been wondering about protein powder so I just ordered the one suggested thanks

My nutritionist gave me a good protein drink option - lower calorie too. I was struggling to get enough protein. Supplement a pint of skimmed milk with 4 tablespoons of Marvel dried skimmed milk. I then add sugar free Crusha to make a milkshake. Really boosts my protein intake.

Hi Kate,

well done with your wight loss. I live on the Wirral and had VSG on the 21st of May 2015. I lost 4 stone in 4 months which i am pleased about but have not even lost a pound in the last two months. i am very frustrated. Any advise will be gratefully accepted.

I take around 500 to 800 cals per day

around 40-60 Protein per day

less than 50 carbs per day

exercise(cardio and strength) at least 4-5 times a week and burn around 400 cals at a time.

I am not losing inches either

@vsghyster Nice to meet you!

I usually have more Protein, calories and less carbs than yourself but that doesn't work with everyone. I guess its finding out what works for you regarding weight loss. Pain in the backside trying to figure it all out, isn't it!!

Personally I don't feel you are eating enough calories and protein seeing as you are working out 4/5 times a week. Does your dietitian have any suggestions about that? Are you noting down everything you are eating and drinking? It's trial and error at times to see what works for you.

Best of luck!!

Hi I am in Scotland, NHS revision band to bypass done 16th September 2015. I use Phd diet whey as its so low in Carbs. 39lb in 12 weeks will keep a look out for other uk people x

Hi tayside belle nice to see another UK person here, and welcome back Kate from hols

@@taysidebell

Nice to meet you and congratulations on such a great weight loss!

Hey...just checking in as seeing more UK people. Good to see.

It is Sam!!!

It is!!!! Lol...how are you all doing? Been sleeved a month and lost 29 lbs (2 stone 1lb.) Things going well but don't think I am getting enough protein...only about 30 g/day. Upping that this week and starting exercise. Wooohooo.

You need to really work towards getting a minimum of 60g of protein if you can Sam. I know it's hard early on but it's vital.