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Gastric Bypass |
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Welcome to SP!
My bypass was in 2002 so I'm 11 years out. I lost 230 pounds and have regained 20. If you plan to eat a meal that includes carbs and some protein a couple hours before the gym it should work for you. Have another small meal after too. You may not need more to eat, you may just need to adjust when you eat.
Have you had blood work done recently? Maybe your iron or B12 are low.
Are you using the food tracker to see what your intake really is?
Are you eating a small meal every three or four hours?
I'd encourage you to work with your medical team too.
Hope you will keep us posted.
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I had my R and Y surgery November 28, 2012. I had lost 30 lbs. The whole month of December all I was doing is losing 1 or 2 lbs a week. I have also had weeks where I have stalled out. I was so frustrated, so I went back to all my hand outs. It said to only eat a half to three-quarter size cup at one meal. I have done that and I have lost about 2 lbs a week sometimes more! The one thing I do not do is weigh myself everyday it is too frustrating. I have also joined TOPS and our weigh ins are on Wednesday and I use that for my weekly weigh in. Hope this helps!
Edited by: CJVEIK at: 3/19/2013 (16:04)
Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/b
/buddha101052.html#hmDphKpelWFm2bfx.99
| current weight: 243.5 |
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I developed severe necrotizing pancreatitis and a pancreatic pseudocyst in August and was not able to eat for weeks on end. I was feed with a tube and hospitalized 5 times and as a consequence lost 30 pounds. Now I am doing Spark and am losing in a healthy way. I had considered WLS but now don't need it.
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Great information here. I am in the beginning stages of getting prepped for the gastric bypass surgery.
Think positively
Exercise Daily
Eat Healthy
Work Hard
Stay strong
Build faith
Worry less
Read more
Be happy
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Congratulations! Glad you have fund it to be a life saver and life changer too!
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Since you are so near your surgery date, it is important for you to follow the food plan suggested by your surgical team. The food tracker is a wonderful tool for you to track what you eat though. The fitness tracker is fantastic too. Welcome aboard and keep us posted!
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I agree with you, Dawn. Gastric bypass IS the answer for individuals who are motivated and are willing to follow post op instructions. My surgery and recovery 10 years ago was textbook as well. It has been a whole new life.
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I had gastric bypass a little over 5 years ago. I was taking 600 units of insulin each day and decided it had to stop. Total I lost 120 lbs - I have since gained back about 15, so I am exercising more and watching what I eat very carefully. I can no longer drink plain water - I can drink flavored water (aquafina), I cannot drink ANYTHING carbonated. I struggle with chicken - more than a few bites will hurt. I don't eat anything with more than 5 grams of added sugar. I might be able to, but I know myself - all or nothing. When I eat one bite too much I can tell because I start to sneeze - about 3-4 times, and my nose runs - weird! My surgery was textbook - no issues, I stopped losing naturally - didn't lose too much ro too little. I am still on insulin, but unfortunately my endo thinks genetics works against me. But I only take 22 units vs. 600, so I feel it was a great move on my part. I will never have another piece of cake or cookies, and that's ok. That is what got me where I was in the first place. Maybe it isn't for everyone - that is something you and your doc need to decide, but for me it was good.
| current weight: 171.0 |
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Congratulations, Jewell! Bet you look FANTASTIC! Have lots of fun learning what your new body can do!
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Well, you are here! that's a start. You can track and get back to using better habits more of the time. We are glad you are here! Keep posting!
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Thats me i have done all that and know thatit was bad for me and did it anyway and gained weight.
Keep going you can do it!!!
| current weight: 259.0 |
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Then you are in the right place. The food tracker and the support here are both helpful!
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I HAD MY LAP GASTRIC BYPASS TO TAKE THE WEIGHT OF MY KNEES(INJURED AT WORK) . AT FIRST WEIGHT CAME OFF AT A RESONABLE PACE BUT THEN HAD OTHER HEALTH ISSUES (DEPRESSION, ASTHMA ATTACKS, ALLERGIES,,,ETC,ETC)AND SURGERIES. MAJOR ISSUE RECURRING ASTHMA ATTACKS WITH PREDNISONE AS MEDICATION PRESCRIBED(WEIGHT GAIN OF 50LBS THAT DID NOT MOVE FOR OVER 15 MONTHS NO MATTER IF I INCREASED EXERCISE AND/OR CHANGED DIET). WEIGHT HAS STARTED TO DROP AGAIN I AM STARTING OVER AND WILL GO BAKE TO THE PROTEIN SHAKE REGIMEN IN ONE WEEK. GOAL IS NOW TO GET THE KNEES REPLACED BY SEPTEMBER 2012 AFTER WEIGHT LOSS OF 80LBS AS PRESCRIBED BY ORTHO SURGEON AND MAINTAIN AND/OR IMPROVE CURRENT LEVEL OF HEALTH
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Interesting how plans differ. After my RNY I could have any seasoning I wanted. It was well tolerated and tasted marvelous! Congratulations on your great start!
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Woohoo, Suz! You are doing well. As long as you are "following the program" it will be permanent! Enjoy your success.
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Thanks for the words of encouragement! I am so happy for you to have been so successful. I am sure you will beat back that 35 pounds. I am starting to get a little concerned that it is going too well because now I am not quite 3 weeks post op and I can eat some real food already- scrambled egg white, banana, soups. I don't want it to get too easy until I have made a bigger and more permanent change to my lifestyle. But I guess it will start getting better once the Dr. give me the OK to start working out. So Down 19 pounds at last Dr. visit! Yeah - and thanks again for the encouragement!
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I had my RNY surgery on August 23. When I started the program at Bariatric Solutions in Jan. '11 I was 355 lbs. Today I am 228 lbs and on my goal to lose another 50 pounds or so. It's been a difficult but great journey. I have started a support team for RNY patients but any gastric bypass folks may join: www.sparkpeople.com/myspark/groups_individ
ual.asp?gid=55201 I have had many problems since the surgery but most of them were my mistakes or circumstances beyond anyone's control. I originally did all this to get my hip replaced since it won't allow me to exercise or walk properly. I get the hip replaced on Feb. 20 and I can't wait to get into the gym. Hang in there...it gets better.
Edited by: TONYRUG at: 1/24/2012 (12:04)
| current weight: 165.0 |
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There are some teams for lap band specifically. You might look for one that is headed by ALANOFLINY It is called lap banders. He does a lot of advocating, etc.
I had RNY in 2002 so can give general support. He will really have more specific advice.
Stevia is great. You may also just learn to like fewer things with sweetner. You may find that after a time away from sugar that sweetner is less objectionable. Experimentation is really helpful. Keep tasting different things.
Thank you for posting. It is great to have action on the thread!
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I use Stevia as a sweetener. As it is derrived from a plant it`s all natural not a chemically created sweetener.
Jen
| Pounds lost: 46.7 |
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Good morning everyone, looking for some contact/ group for support. I had the realize-lapband done 01/12/2012. So 9 days out after surgery, I have lost 24lbs so far which is a great motivator - still a long way to go. Starting my work out routine today on the treadmill. I hope this site will keep me motivated and on course. 
Edited by: THIS2HAS2CHANGE at: 1/21/2012 (11:15)
Jen
| Pounds lost: 46.7 |
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Hi Tadel!
I was 420 in 2002 when I had RNY. I too have gained about 35 pounds over the past several years. I know I'd be disabled or dead without it. It has been a wonderful tool to lose weight. I'm STILL working on the emotional component of obesity even today. I too had to learn to exercise. I exercise 5 or 6 days per week. Thank you for sharing your story!
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Keep up the good work SUZKANE1! I have the same aversion to sweetened everything which makes it hard eat the way you should. I know what you mean about how great food smells once you get past the initial "food haze" after surgery. I spoke to the clinic's nurse yesterday about how Splenda makes me so nauseous after using it for a few weeks. He recommended trying others since they do have chemical differences. Thanks for supplying the eating tips again. I find myself going over my binder of info all the time. I'm 34 days post-op and had an endoscopy because I developed an esophageal stricture two days ago. My advice is to review your food tips everyday and if you continue to experience pain after eating or drinking get in touch with your doctor. I waited over two weeks thinking I could find a food or combination of foods that wouldn't cause me pain and nausea. If you find yourself unable to take your medications in any disguise and you can't find a way to eat without pain be kind to yourself and see the doctor. It sounds like you're off to a great start. I'm still very glad I've had gastric bypass (RNY) because I've already got my blood pressure under control after losing 20 lbs post-surgery. Can anyone post if they have found a way to get past the awful artificial sweetner problem? It's very hard to meet your protein requirements without them and while on a liquid only diet.
| Pounds lost: 54.0 |
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Hi There Iluvkibbee,
I wish you all the best in this continuing journey. I am thinking that maybe this thread on the message board might give us all some extra strength to do the things we so desperately want to succeed in.
My first real goal is to faithfully log every drink and eventually bite I have. So many people have proven that this one action can support an entire program. I am also blogging, but that is like an extra for me- Making the food tracking my one unbreakable promise.
I think a lot of people try to do too many things and then feel like failures at all of them, I am trying to avoid that, and I hope it is helpful in my effort. Do you have one or two things that you have committed to, or might you have too many also?
All the best!!!
Suz
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I am 7 days post op from laproscopic gastric sleeve surgery. I have just started adding blended soup and broth to my diet. It is amazing how wonderful food tastes after not having it for a week! Along with the intense sense of smell and taste I have also become overly sensitive to nasty artificial sweetener. It has made drinking the protein powder shakes difficult to say the least- 6 different brands tried and all yuck! A couple things that I found that were really helpful so far-
I can not sip slowly enough, 5 minutes for a tablespoon of liquid is actually reasonable, sip as if from a thimble.
Vary the temperature of your drinks, sometimes colder is better but sometimes warm is easier to swallow.
Never lie down immediately after sipping or eating. This causes the sharp pain from mucus build up that many people struggle with.
Keep trying- watered down sugar free juice, almond milk, skim milk, clear broth, but not water it seemed to hurt more.
Take the meds even though they taste so awful. One tbs of liquid tylenol takes 5 long minutes to get down and tastes like absolute nastiness, but it makes sipping everything else for the next few hours much easier.
All of my BP and other meds turned out to be crushable (you have to check each med with Dr. to make sure it can be crushed) so a tablet crushed between 2 spoons and then taken with a spoonful of lite cranberry juice made the process so much better.
I am not avoiding being around food, I even made dinner for my daughter one night and although chopping the yummy but untouchable salad veggies was a temptation and serving the meatloaf smelled just so good, it did not make me crazy. My tummy was full from my sipping and made it easier and I think learning some self control now seems like a great idea.
So, I am looking forward now to support from this new community of friends as i start this journey. I just want to maximize this tool to help me create a new relationship with food and design a new healthy lifestyle. I will try to share my challenges as I go. I posted a few blog entries here today that describe the time leading up to and just after my surgery. i am hoping they may be helpful to anyone looking forward to their own surgery.
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I am 7 days post op from laproscopic gastric sleeve surgery. I have just started adding blended soup and broth to my diet. It is amazing how wonderful food tastes after not having it for a week! Along with the intense sense of smell and taste I have also become overly sensitive to nasty artificial sweetener. It has made drinking the protein powder shakes difficult to say the least- 6 different brands tried and all yuck! A couple things that I found that were really helpful so far-
I can not sip slowly enough, 5 minutes for a tablespoon of liquid is actually reasonable, sip as if from a thimble.
Vary the temperature of your drinks, sometimes colder is better but sometimes warm is easier to swallow.
Never lie down immediately after sipping or eating. This causes the sharp pain from mucus build up that many people struggle with.
Keep trying- watered down sugar free juice, almond milk, skim milk, clear broth, but not water it seemed to hurt more.
Take the meds even though they taste so awful. One tbs of liquid tylenol takes 5 long minutes to get down and tastes like absolute nastiness, but it makes sipping everything else for the next few hours much easier.
All of my BP and other meds turned out to be crushable (you have to check each med with Dr. to make sure it can be crushed) so a tablet crushed between 2 spoons and then taken with a spoonful of lite cranberry juice made the process so much better.
I am not avoiding being around food, I even made dinner for my daughter one night and although chopping the yummy but untouchable salad veggies was a temptation and serving the meatloaf smelled just so good, it did not make me crazy. My tummy was full from my sipping and made it easier and I think learning some self control now seems like a great idea.
So, I am looking forward now to support from this new community of friends as i start this journey. I just want to maximize this tool to help me create a new relationship with food and design a new healthy lifestyle. I will try to share my challenges as I go. I posted a few blog entries here today that describe the time leading up to and just after my surgery. i am hoping they may be helpful to anyone looking forward to their own surgery.
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Hi Julie, I had lapband surgery 2 1/2 years ago and I've only lost 15 pounds! Everybody tells you that the surgery is just a tool, just a tool, just a tool. Somehow, I didn't think that would be my experience. Somehow I thought it would be like magic for me. Well, guess what I found out: it's just a tool! It's taken a couple of years and $16,000 to figure that out but now in 2012 I GET it. This is going to be the year. For you and for me. We need to use the TOOL and make it work by using it correctly. That means doing our part: water, diet, exercise...all the stuff you already know. My biggest problem is the slider foods. Especially at night after dinner. So I am going to try to get to bed earlier, before the hunger panic sets in. If I can't slip out before the munchies bang on my door, I will eat healthier snacks. I signed up for the "bestlife" website and found it to be really annoying and outdated. So I realized I should just go back to SP, which as you know is an excellent, comprehensive site, another tool. I would be happy to buddy up with you or someone else out there. I know this is key. I have had my oldest child at home for the past few days and she and I have been going to the gym together. Having her around for motivation and just as someone fun to talk to has made all the difference in the world for me. I can't try to run any excuses by her! The only problem is, she has to go BACK TO SCHOOL!!! I wish you the best of success!
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Hi Larsil! It is a whole new lease on life, isn't it? Nicely stated. Sounds like you are having a wonderful time. I too agree that it is necessary for survival for some of us. My surgery was in 2002. I'm almost 10 years into my new life. I lost 230 pounds. I've maintained the majority of it for 8 years.
I agree that following instructions as EXACTLY as possible for as long as possible is a key factor in success. Exercise is also very helpful. I'd have never lost this much weight without it. Begin with what you can do and do more things as it is possible. It may be helpful to work with a trainer or other professional if you have no previous experience exercising. Classes are great. Try new kinds of exercise to keep it interesting.
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Hi: Thank-you for sharing your story. You and your wife are an inspiration and good luck on reaching your goal, sounds to me like you know what you're doing. I'm being a nervous nelly and worrying about everything at the moment but I'll let ppl. know how things go. Happy New Year
| Pounds lost: 86.0 |
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I weighed 345 lbs. when I went in for gastric bypass surgery 3 1/2 years ago. Yes, there are some inconveniences, and some adjustments to make, but overall it has been amazingly worth it -- and I'm convinced my life will be far longer and healthier now since having the surgery. Mine was laparoscopic -- making the smallest possible incisions, and maneuvering inside with optical equipment to guide the surgeon. The doctor said mine was "a textbook operation", and was smiling from ear to ear when it was over! The weight came off quickly, then I've hit a plateau -- and it's going to take some major effort to get the last 20-25 lbs. off to reach my goal. I'd love to be 190 lbs before my birthday in May. For those considering it -- follow the "re-entry plan" very carefully. Don't rush to try solid foods again; wait out the time and enjoy the liquid diet and Jell-O, and be patient. I tried some chicken noodle soup, just trying the broth and a noodle or two. Not pretty. Yes, you WILL throw up. It's not a case of "if"; it's a sure thing. It WILL be inconvenient. If you are discreet, it doesn't have to be embarrassing. Also, after the surgery, your entire "plumbing" changes -- and your use of the "john" will be completely different as well. I won't go into details; just be ready for some stunning changes. If you can make the lifestyle changes without the surgery, then go to it and God bless you! For my wife and myself, the surgery was absolutely necessary -- and a godsend. It's not for everyone. We've been lucky -- and/or blessed -- with our results. Between us, we've lost a linebacker. (I've lost 140 lbs; Deb has lost 130.) Best wishes to all, whether you have the surgery or not. Trust your doctor's advice -- they know what they're doing, and that's why they're getting paid for it. See you on the Spark Pages! ---L. 
"My Shepherd will supply my need."
Living Above the Influence
Anglican/Episcopal Team
De Colores, Good Buddy!
| current weight: 208.0 |
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Seems like it might be just as helpful to have a glass of tea, water with lemon or something similar and enjoy the company. We'd love to hear how you handle it when you spend time with your friend.
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Hi: Congratulations on your success! I should have been specific and say that I'm on a liquid diet at the moment and don't really want to sabotage what I've already done. Cheers
| Pounds lost: 86.0 |
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Hi Everyone: I'm looking for suggestions about going out for coffee/dessert/. I'm in the pre-op stage for my #WLS and don't want to sabotage my progress, such that it is. I haven't seen this friend that I'm going out with in a long time and really want to go out but I haven't told him about the surgery just that I"m on a diet. Any ideas on what I can order and how to talk about the WLS. Thx p.s. if you see this posted some place else, its not your imagination.
| Pounds lost: 86.0 |
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Start making improvements with what you are eating. Watch portions and foods that have little nutrition. It seems to help to think about choosing foods for healthy fuel rather than to think about what I am NOT GOING TO EAT or am not "allowed" to do. It works better for me to focus on what I want rather than what I don't want. Please keep posting and we will all support each other.
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CHICKJULIE
SparkPoints: (211)
Fitness Minutes: (120)
Posts:
5
1/4/12 12:23 P
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I am not a newbie to this site I have been on and off this site for about three years now. I have had the gastric sleeve and I have lost around 40pounds. Yeah me right NOT I have been gaining or staying steady for the past 2 months and I am getting really depressed and emotionally eating. Really sucks because I know this is were my problem is. I do know that with the sleeve there is no punishment for eating the foods that you are not supposed to eat. I need to get back on track. Any ideas how to get back on track. Julie
| current weight: 172.0 |
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Congratulations! I had open surgery 10 years ago so my experience is likely a bit different than what you had. You may not have much of an appetite and may need extra rest. These are GOOD things. No appetite = weight loss. Rest = healing. Your team will be the best source of information on this part. Please keep us posted on your progress, ask any other questions, etc. I am sure you will get some feedback from folks who have had more recent surgeries. We will make room for you on the loser's bench!
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Hi: I'm having my gastric bypass surgery this month. Anyone have any advice what I should expect the first week. Cheers
| Pounds lost: 86.0 |
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Good question. Your surgeon is the ultimate guide on this. I went back to work at 4 weeks out after an 'OPEN" RNY in 2002. I'm sure that those having lap surgery may be able to return a bit sooner. Some of the others will have to help with a more definitive answer.
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Hello all I was wondering how much time to plan to take off from work, I have a sedentary job at the hospital where Ill be having the surgery. I am hoping to have the laproscopic RNY . I am having a revision from the Lap Band
| current weight: 205.0 |
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I do agree that it is a lifesaver. Although my mom hasn't had the best experience with eating, I'm glad that it worked for all of you :)
'Strive to be a virtuous person who does everything for the glory of God."
| current weight: 120.0 |
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Yep! I believe it is a lifesaver too! I weighed 420 at surgery and have maintained in the neighborhood of 200 for years. I had no complications or difficulties either.
I too had a surgeon who had done about 600 surgeries. My surgery was in a hospital that only handles bariatric cases. I KNEW before the surgery that I would be up walking in 4 hours. I knew BEFORE surgery that I'd be walking every four hours around the clock.
Researching the right program really is the key to it all in my opinion. One's own motivation and determination to follow instructions is also very very important too.
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You really have to research your surgeon and I think it's worth traveling to a larger city if you live in a smaller town. These surgeons have generally done way more and it's easier to look at their records. I had an excellent surgeon. I had an exceptionally easy time of it. I was 43 when I had the surgery and had zero complications. I've only thrown up once or twice and it was my fault for eating too much. I lost 120 pounds and gained back the "rebound 15" which I'm now trying to lose the hard way. I can eat pretty much anything in moderation but mostly eat healthy. I haven't had an illness in years. I thought I had a blood count issue but after a retest it turned out to be fine. I would never recommend this surgery to anyone else because everyone is so different but I wouldn't change having had it for anything!
Julie
Commited to living a healthy lifestyle.
| current weight: 156.0 |
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I have no problems with salad, raw veggies, etc. I didn't eat fruit before, so do not eat now. (I still can't play piano either, lol!) I was told no chewing gum because it causes one to swallow air into the stomach.
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MRSARK
SparkPoints: (286)
Fitness Minutes: (70)
Posts:
13
11/13/11 10:14 P
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I am so sorry to hear your mom had a rough go of it. Some people do and others do not. I am very fortunate, I do think my success with the bypass was because I was very well informed before the surgery. I knew that if I did not beef up my vitamin d and iron I could have problems, so 1 yr before my surgery, I took the correct vitamins, just as if I had the surgery. I took calcium also so I can continue to have healthy bones. Knock on wood, I have not had one dumping syndrome, I do get 60 grams of protein per day. I am no longer a diabetic. I am still eating healthy, I eat up to 6 small meals per day. I love vegetables, fruit, fish, chicken, I stay away from red meat, because I used to eat a steak alot before the surgery, and that was one of the things I wanted to omit from my diet. I do not miss it.
Everyone is different, and you are not guaranteed a perfect outcome. I do believe it has alot to do with the surgeon you have, the dietician you have, and the support system around you, and how you get your body ready before the surgery. I studied this for 10 yrs and just now decided to get the surgery. I did not like how they used to do it, because it does cause alot of what your mom is experiencing. They used to cut the small intestine and attach to the entire stomach, which I thought at that time, how the heck is that going to work? and the small intestine was very short.
When I went to the seminar, they talked about the sleeve, however I was not impressed with that surgery, because it had to long of a staple line and they remove most of your stomach.
I advise everyone to be well informed and educate yourself with the pro's and con's of the surgery. I would think about the lifestyle change you would have to make and ask yourself, am I ready for this?
I do not know if I can eat candy or anything else that is not sugar free and does not contain sugar alcohol and I do not care to find out, as this can cause a dumping syndrome and I am not a fan of not feeling good. So I myself will never ever try it. I do know that bread unless it's toasted will not settle with me and can cause a blockage, so I have opted to only eat Melba toast and trisect crackers, I will not even think about having toast. I was a HUGE gum chewer, and I knew going into this surgery, I would not be able to chew gum for 2 reasons, 1: I can swallow a piece of the gum and it would cause a blockage, 2: It contains sugar alcohol and that can start a dumping syndrome, so I was fine giving that up as well.
As for the vegetables, I cannot eat raw veggies, the cooked can veggies only. I am not aware of acid in them, and for the fruits, I cannot eat fresh, would have to be packed in water or fruit juice not syrup *this is what my dietician told me* I am not going to try something different, I'd rather be safe than sorry, that's for sure. I am a BIG BABY and do not want to add problems, so I just stick with the safe route. Again, I am so sorry your mom's surgery did not go as she planned.
Take Care,
Deb
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I am truly sorry to hear of your mother's difficulties. Her experience really ISN'T typical of the surgery. Most people are able to eat a wide variety of foods from all the food groups. Agreed it is a personal decision. It can also be affected by pre existing conditions, the surgeon who performed the procedure, which procedure was done and many other factors.
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To be perfectly honest, my mom got gastric bypass about 5 years ago and I absolutely hate that she got it. Had I known about SparkPeople years ago, I would have talked to her about it. Because my mom can't eat a lot, her iron and calcium is super low. She throws up a lot because many foods don't settle with her stomach. She can't eat salad because it's hard for her to digest. Mostly, she eats candy...very unhealthy because she can't eat anything else. Eating at restaurants is difficult for her. She can't consume items with flour nor can she eat acidic foods (vegetables and fruits). So honestly, I hate that she got it. She has lost over 100 pounds from it, but I hate to see her not eat and throw up what she does eat. Food is hard to digest because they made her sphincter the size of like a penny. This may seem gross, but she doesn't get enough fiber, so...she's lucky to produce feces once a month. It's really a personal choice, and I'm not trying push you away from it. I just want you to know what her experience is like. If anything, think about this for a year. It's a long time, but get the facts during that time, then base your decision off that. I want to become a dietician when I'm older, and I doubt I'll want to recommend it to anyone.
'Strive to be a virtuous person who does everything for the glory of God."
| current weight: 120.0 |
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MRSSTINSON I've looked at this question for a long time because I felt the same way. It's why I've dieted so often for so long. I've been on a medically supervised diet since January 2011 and I've learned a lot. Excuse me if I don't use the technical terms for chemicals and enzymes. In short when your body reaches a weight it tends to want to stay that weight and it will fight you. Even if you lose the weight it "knows" what you are supposed to weight and it will keep you hungry till you are the "proper" weight again. You have to be on a diet for life and that's true even after surgery. Stay with me.  Exercise can help but you are still fighting your body. In addition you are fighting your emotions, enzymes, chemicals, family and just about everything else in day to day life that is comfortable so you need constant help of some type. Everyone WILL cheat; everybody. With surgery you are affecting the size of your stomach. I don't know as much about the band surgery but with the others you are losing part of the stomach which cuts out some of the enzymes that make you hungry. Your brain doesn't get those signals and that is why you have to be aware of what you eat so that you get enough of the right stuff. With RnY you also lose part of your upper colon where you absorb most of your nutrients forcing your body to discard food before you can absorb it all. That's why you have to be on supplements for the rest of your life. It's harsh way to go but most people who have the surgery have already tried everything else unsuccessfully. They have gone on to have serious diseases like diabetes, heart, high blood pressure and/or liver function loss. I don't think most people jump into the surgery without seriously trying diet or realizing that giving dieting more time isn't something they can afford. There are several articles online if you want more information beyond my simple explanation. I'm 53 years old, 5'3" and was 273 lbs last January. I'm now at 249 down from 257 last week and I'm starving with less than 1000 calories a day till my surgery on 12/5. Since January I've managed to control my cholesterol, blood pressure with medication and my lipids are finally in the good range. However I had to have two stents put in last June when they found 98% and 95% blockages. I don't dare wait any longer.
Edited by: PENNIPED at: 11/13/2011 (18:27)
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I agree. Some folks ARE in deinal about what and how much they eat. Others truly do have disorders of the metabolism that causes them to have difficulty loosing no matter what they do, not to mention being unable to move much to burn any calories off.
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MRSARK
SparkPoints: (286)
Fitness Minutes: (70)
Posts:
13
11/13/11 5:42 P
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Hello,
I had RNY as well. I tried for years following the healthy eating plan, eating only the right things and exercising each and every day 1.5 hrs cardio and resistance. I swim every other day. Went to the doctor 1x per week to weigh in, because I wanted to be accountable. For the 1st year I lost a total of zero pounds, same for the 2nd year. Yes, my cholesterol was great, had no high blood pressure and my sugar was in check. For some reason the weight would not come off. I went to see another doctor. Well, I was advised even though I am doing the right thing with exercise and diet, my BMI was still too high and I would not be loosing the weight that I should of if I had a normal metabolism. So now with the surgery, I exercise, eat right (1 tablespoon every 4 hrs) and I am so full and satisfied. When I exercise now I can actually see the benefits of my efforts and am loosing and shaping up nicely. I am as of today under 300 pounds for the 1st time in 15 years. Without the surgery, I would still be doing the same insane cycle and motions and not getting anywhere. Now with the surgery, I am happy, and even exercise harder. I am very happy I had the surgery, it is working for me. I think people who have a good working metabolism look at over weight people and think we are lazy and all we do is eat. That is not the case with me or with alot of people who had WLS. There is something broke with our body and the only way to fix it is through WLS.
Take Care,
Deb
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There are different sorts of surgerys. I had a RNY gastric bypass. That bypasses a portion of the small intestine as well as making a tiny stomach. The small intestine is where the body absorbs the nutrients and energy from the food. I personally did not feel "full" until I had eaten huge quantities of food.
There are other surgeries that produce a feeling of being "full" in other ways. We would not have at least half of the population overweight or obese if it was really practical to follow the same diet 100%. I hope some of the others will chime in. Over the long haul, weight loss surgery has the best LONG TERM outcomes for the morbidly obese. I'm not speaking of someone who needs to loose 50 pounds or less, etc.
I lost 230 pounds. My surgery was in 2002. I've maintained 200 to 210 of it for 8 years. It is a whole new life! Am I "skinny?" No. I am just able to function normally and fit into the world nicely. I am fit and happy.
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So my question is...and sorry if this has already been addressed...if you just follow a diet as though you had the surgery...wouldn't you get the same results? Obviously it would require 100% willpower and dedication because there would be no negative outcomes if you slipped up. Or, is there something additional that the surgery does to restrict calorie absorption? At the end of the day isn't it still calories in calories out?
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HI Penni!
It looks like you have done all your work and made some great choices. It is understandable that you are nervous. I'm sure that women are nervous before childbirth and other procedures too. (I was not fortunate enough to have children. I've just taught them for 30 years.) It is a lifestyle change. If you are doing well on your optifast bars you will do well after your surgery.
My surgery was done in 2002. I'm still healthy and happy. I'm sure you will be in 10 or more years too! Welcome and please keep posting!
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Hi to all and thanks for the great posts. Most of them are making me somewhat shaky? I'm not sure. guess I am just nervous. I've been to a Center of Excellence for nearly a year but have only lost a total of 23 pounds so I've decided to have RnY (the only option covered by my insurance). I had hoped to be able to lose weight just by dieting but was unsuccessful with that. My surgery is scheduled for 12/5 and I'm on a much reduced diet now of Optifast bars with an option of Lean Cuisine for dinner. Plus lots of water but I'm used to that already. I've already been to lots of classes and some support group meetings. I've researched and have a surgeon who is experienced and has the best rate of success in the area and the whole hearted support of my family doctor. The hospital is one of the top rated in my area. I have no problems with family who would try to sabotage my eating choices since they already eat very healthy foods and proper amounts. I have chosen to tell only my 2 sisters about my surgery mainly because I don't want to worry the others. My husband is very supportive and will be able to take time off to be with me for a few days. So I don't have anything to complain about other than just being scared of the whole process and wondering how I will do and being concerned that this is for life! There's no return once it's done. I've got a case of nerves even though I have to do this. Last June I had to have 2 stents because I'm developing heart problems. More than time to get the weight off. So....thanks for your advice and encouraging stories.
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Congratulationsor starting your journey, VMCA! Take lots of notes and ask many questions. I agree with Deb, do lots of research. You want an experienced surgeon who has a good follow up program.
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MRSARK
SparkPoints: (286)
Fitness Minutes: (70)
Posts:
13
11/10/11 10:24 A
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Good Luck with everything VMKCASTEEL. I had my RnY 11-2-11 and it was the best decision I have ever made. I am happy with the surgery. You may want to check with your insurance, most insurances want you to have 5 yr medical supervised weight loss. That's the 1st place I would start, see what they require to have the surgery pre-approved. I hope everything works out for you. Make sure you understand the differences between the surgeries. For instance, when I went to the seminar, my doc explained, if you have a problem controlling liquid sweets then the lap band or sleeve will not work for you and you will not loose weight. If you are opting for the band, my doc advised at the seminar that there is a 4 month wait after the band is implanted before saline is put into the band to help control portions. Just make sure you know what type of surgery you would like and do alot of research like I did. I knew before the surgery what was expected of me and how my diet would change and the amount I would eat. Search for a psychiatrist that deals with bariatric patients, not that you will need one, but just to have someone you can talk to if needed that will understand. Know where your support groups meet at. Check out to see if you have more than 1 per month in your area. They are very helpful and you learn alot. Also check out the web site http://www.obesityhelp.com this is set up for people who are thinking of or already had Gastric Bypass, Sleeve, lap-band, or the other surgical options. They have a support group meeting online 1x per week which I attend and I learn alot from them. Also research plastic surgeons in your area, check out how many have completed surgeries for bareatric patients. By all means do back ground checks to see if any sanctions or malpractice suits have been filed and what they were for. Do this also for your WL surgeon. You want the best doctor for the job. This decision took me 10 yrs and then when I decided I wanted to do this, I did the digging and I reached out got any info I needed, took like another year to do all the research. I am glad I did it, because in the end and after the surgery I had ZERO pain and my incisions are healing very nicely.
Again, good luck on your journey, it's a wonderful journey as long as you do the homework for the procedure.
Take Care,
Deb
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I am trying to start the process. I have started a doctor supervised weight loss program and have faxed in the paperwork to the doctor I want to see. My husband and I are planning to go to a seminar December 1st. I am so ready to do this.
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I'd do it if I had the resources!
I came, I saw, I conquered.
Veni, Vidi, Vici---Julius Caesar
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I see.
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I am truly sorry to hear of your problem. They may view things differently at some time in the future. For now, there are so many other adventures to have now that you are new and improved! I hope you enjoy as many of them as possible!
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That is such a shame! I can't believe your friend's family would treat you both so poorly when all your friend did was improve her health so she can be around for them a little longer. I have found that heavier people get jealous/resentful of my weight loss. I guess it is true that misery loves company. All I can really recommend is for you or Anna to remind the family that this was something she felt she needed to do to improve her health so she can live a longer happier life. My family, while very supportive, was worried about things like what they are going to do for Thanksgiving now that I had the surgery. I have found it helpful to tell friends and family I don't want them to change their habits because this was my life improving decision and not theirs. That seems to help when I get into that uncomfortable situation where people don't want to eat in front of me, plan parties involving food, etc. I hope this helps somewhat. -Nikki
| current weight: 185.5 |
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MRSARK
SparkPoints: (286)
Fitness Minutes: (70)
Posts:
13
10/27/11 8:17 P
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Hi Nikki,
Congrats! I am so happy for you. WOW, I hope I will be as lucky as you not vomiting and not getting sick. I will take your advice on walking and using the tiles as a gauge is an excellent idea. My surgery is at 7:30am, so I think I will be in my room by 1pm perhaps and I will try my best to get up and move. My husband works nights which is great and he will be there at the hospital to help me.
When you are taking in your protein shakes, are you able to get in 30 grams of the protein? Are you on pureed foods yet or still liquid? OMGoodness, I have sooo many questions. I go and see my doctor and have a nutrition class and do some tests. I hope they do not stick nothing down me or up me LOL!!! Hope they only take blood. Nov 1 the day before surgery. They actually have my entire day planned from 8am -4pm.
I can tell some people at work are like not liking me because I will not be fat anymore. You would think they would be happy for me and not jealous of me. I am not going to stop that from making me healthy and happy, I suppose misery loves company and I will not join them for sure! I am so happy Nikki that I am finally having this wonderful surgery. A co-worker who does photography as a hobby is "building" a picture book of my journey. When she took pics of me front, side, front and back and I actually seen those pics, I cried. I had no idea I was that BIG!!! I guess you get so used to seeing yourself each and everyday that you do not notice the largeness of yourself. I have on my phone calendar to remind me of my 2 week post-op, 4 week post-op and then 8 week post op and so on for an entire year. I want to weigh myself (have to buy a scale first) every 2 weeks and measure my limbs, torso and neck.
Do you exercise alot now? I love to walk. I walk like 1/4 mile 3x a day. I know I will not be able to walk that far right after the surgery. I hope to increase that to 3 miles per day when I can. I have never ever jogged in my life. That is one of my goals, just to jog even if it's only a few feet, at least I can say, "Hey I did it!!"
I'm so excited Nikki, I am excited for you too. I hope we can keep in touch and become WLS buddies.
Thank you so much for sharing, I really appreciate you and your post makes me even feel so much more confident that things will go awesomely fantastic.
Take Care,
Deb
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Hi Deb, I am so excited for you! I had the surgery on October 4, 2011 so I am only a few weeks ahead of you. I know I am only 3 1/2 weeks post surgery but I can already say it is the best decision I ever made. I can already see and feel the differences in my energy levels and have already gone off 2 of my meds and I have lost 22 pounds in 24 days! Just keep up that momentum and excitement you have now throughout the surgery and remember this is you doing something just for you. People rarely have the chance to do that. My results were better than I ever could have imagined - very little pain, no vomitting and I was back to work in 2 1/2 weeks. The best advice I can give (which I am sure your doctor has already told you) is to walk, walk, walk! Get out of bed as soon after the surgery as you can (within hours after you get out of recovery) and push yourself to get down that hospital hall. The hospital I was in had white floors but every 10 or so tiles was green. My goal was that evertime I walked I would make it to the next green tile from where I was during the last walk. By the time I left the hospital I was walking around the whole hallway. Getting your mobility back will help you feel less "sick" and keep you moving in the right direction. Also, if your husband is available to be with you at the hospital, I felt much more comfortable having a family member help me out of bed and around the halls. I always felt guilty using up the nurses' time just to take me for a walk and the nurses don't always let you go at the best pace for you because they are eager to get back to what they are doing. Best of luck Deb and if you have any questions about those first few weeks, I am happy to help. -Nikki
| current weight: 185.5 |
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Good luck to all who undergo this and other procedures to help in getting weight off..I am neither for nor against what is right for each individual and although I did not elect to do this, I know many Sparkers who have done well by combining the surgery with encouragement and support from this site.
Hugs Always,
Nan
It's a marathon, not a sprint! Join me in being a lifetime Sparker!
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Hi Deb!
Sounds like you are enjoying it all! It even gets better if you can imagine it! Hope you will keep us posted on how you are doing.
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