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Alex Brecher

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Everything posted by Alex Brecher

  1. Alex Brecher

    Pre Op Intubation Question

    It's great that you are taking the time to consider any potential issues before your gastric sleeve surgery. Narrow airways can indeed be a concern during anesthesia, but it's important to note that this is a relatively uncommon issue and can often be managed effectively by your healthcare team. In many cases, the anesthesia team will use alternative methods for intubation such as a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) or a fiberoptic scope to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Additionally, some patients may be managed with a combination of intravenous and inhaled anesthesia, which can also be effective. It's important to discuss any concerns you have with your anesthesia provider and surgeon before your surgery. They will be able to provide you with more information about your specific situation and determine the best course of action for you. Good luck with your surgery!
  2. Alex Brecher

    Getting gastric sleeve tomorrow

    I hope you're feeling better! Here are a few last-minute tips that may help: Follow your surgeon's pre-op instructions carefully, including any dietary restrictions or fasting requirements. Pack a bag with comfortable clothes, toiletries, and any other essentials you may need during your recovery. Get plenty of rest the night before your surgery. Have a trusted friend or family member accompany you to the hospital and be prepared to stay overnight. After your surgery, be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions for post-op care, including taking any prescribed medications, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding strenuous activity. Stay positive and focus on your goals. Remember, you're making this change for your health and well-being. Good luck with your surgery, and feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or concerns.
  3. It's not recommended to chew and spit out solid foods, even if it's just for the flavor, as this can disrupt the healing process and negatively impact your weight loss progress after bariatric surgery. It's important to stick to a clear liquid diet for the first few weeks post-op and then slowly transition to pureed and soft foods as recommended by your doctor or dietitian. It's important to follow their guidelines and avoid any foods that may not be suitable for your specific type of surgery.
  4. Losing a large amount of weight can result in loose skin, especially in areas such as the midsection. While exercise and skin tightening exercises can help improve the appearance of loose skin a little, they will not eliminate it. However, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can help improve skin elasticity and strengthen the underlying muscles. In most cases, surgery will be necessary to remove excess skin.
  5. Alex Brecher

    Dumb questions

    No questions are dumb! Dyeing hair/roots: You can dye your hair before surgery, but it's important to avoid harsh chemicals and hair treatments close to the surgery date as they can affect the healing process. Walking post-surgery: If your doctor recommends it, you can use walking sticks to assist you in walking. Non-weight bearing exercises: It's best to consult with your doctor to know what kind of exercises are safe for you after surgery. COVID, flu, tetanus: It's important to follow the recommended guidelines and get vaccinated for COVID-19, flu, and tetanus if you have not done so. Kitchen things: A hand blender can be used for puréeing food.
  6. Alex Brecher

    Grazing, is this normal?

    It's not uncommon for some people to continue to have the habit of snacking, even after weight loss surgery. However, it's important to make sure that the snacks you choose are in line with your bariatric diet and do not sabotage your weight loss goals. You can try to determine if the snacking is related to hunger or if it's a habit or emotional response. If you feel it's the latter, you may want to consider seeking the help of a therapist or counselor to work through any underlying emotional issues. Additionally, finding new activities to occupy your time, such as exercise or hobbies, can help reduce the urge to snack. The BariatricPal Store carries a huge selection of Bariatric friendly Protein Snacks & Desserts at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/bariatric-high-protein-low-calorie-snacks-and-desserts Here are some other bariatric-friendly ideas as well: Chips and Crunchy Snacks: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-chips-and-crunchy-protein-snacks Chocolate Bars & Candies: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/bariatric-friendly-chocolate-bars-chocolate-candies Cakes, Cookies & Wafers: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/cookies-wafers Sugar-Free Candy: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/sugar-free-candy Cheese Snacks: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/cheese-snacks Meat & Jerky Snacks: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/meat-snacks Fish Snacks: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/fish-snacks Protein Bars: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-bars Pretzels: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/pretzels Nuts: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/nut-snacks
  7. Alex Brecher

    Migraines and Pre-Op Diet

    Migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, including diet, stress, changes in sleep patterns, and hormonal changes. It's not uncommon for people to experience an increase in migraines during a change in diet or lifestyle, such as the pre-op diet for bariatric surgery. If you're experiencing an increase in migraines, it's important to discuss this with your doctor, who can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment options. In some cases, they may also recommend keeping a food diary to help identify any specific triggers.
  8. Alex Brecher

    Liquid diet

    As a diabetic, it's important to closely monitor your blood sugar levels and work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively. Avoiding sugar-sweetened beverages and drinking water can help prevent sudden drops in blood sugar. Premier Protein, although it's not the best quality protein, offers several protein drink options that are free from caffeine, including their shakes in Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry flavors. Additionally, it may be helpful to eat small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day to maintain stable blood sugar levels. It's important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a plan that works best for you.
  9. Alex Brecher

    Documenting your journey

    There are many ways you can document your weight loss journey after gastric sleeve surgery. Here are a few suggestions: Monthly Photos: Take a photo of yourself in the same spot and clothing every month, just like you mentioned. This will give you a visual representation of your progress and can be motivating. Journal: Keeping a journal can be helpful in tracking your thoughts, feelings, and experiences throughout your journey. You can write about your challenges, successes, and what you have learned. Food Diary: Document what you eat, how much, and how you feel after each meal. This can help you identify patterns and make changes to your diet as needed. Video Diary: Consider recording a short video each week or month to document your progress and share your story. Remember, this journey is about you and your health, and it's important to find what works best for you in terms of documenting and tracking your progress.
  10. Here are some tips that might help you manage this change: Listen to your body: Pay attention to the signals your body is sending you, such as hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly: Chew your food well and take small bites to allow your brain to catch up with your stomach. Stop eating when you're full: Don't try to eat more just because you're used to feeling full in the past. Avoid high-volume, low-nutrient foods: Foods that are high in sugar or empty calories can be tempting, but they won't fill you up and may contribute to overeating. Drink water regularly: Staying hydrated can help you feel full and prevent overeating. Keep a food journal: Writing down what you eat and when you eat it can help you identify patterns and prevent overeating. Remember, everyone's journey is different, and it may take some time to adjust to the changes in your body. Be patient with yourself and stay focused on your goals.
  11. Alex Brecher

    Bruising and dizziness/hot flashes

    It's not uncommon to experience some bruising and swelling after gastric bypass surgery, but it's always best to check with your surgeon if you have any concerns. The bruise on your stomach could be due to the placement of the incisions or the handling of the tissues during the procedure. Regarding the dizziness and hot flashes, it's possible that they could be related to low blood pressure, which can occur after surgery. This is because the body needs time to adjust to the changes in fluid and electrolyte levels. It's also possible that you could be feeling fatigued or experiencing some dehydration, which can contribute to these symptoms. It's important to follow your surgeon's instructions for post-operative care and to report any concerns to them as soon as possible. They will be able to evaluate your symptoms and determine the best course of action. In the meantime, make sure to drink plenty of fluids and rest as much as possible to help your body recover from the surgery.
  12. Alex Brecher

    I hate myself for going through with WLS

    I understand that you are feeling overwhelmed and regretful after your weight loss surgery. It sounds like you went through a difficult and confusing time both before and after the surgery, and it's understandable that you are feeling frustrated and sad about the experience. You mentioned several points in your message, and I'd like to address each one: Pre-surgery preparation: It sounds like you did not feel fully prepared for the surgery, both in terms of understanding the prerequisites and the potential physical and emotional effects of the surgery. This can be a common experience for people who undergo bariatric surgery, as the process can be complex and confusing. Hospital experience: The experience you had in the hospital sounds particularly challenging, with language barriers, physical discomfort, and a lack of support from the medical staff. This can be difficult to manage and can impact one's recovery and overall feelings about the surgery. Eating habits and diet: The changes in your eating habits and diet can be a significant adjustment, especially when combined with the physical side effects of the surgery. It's understandable that you are feeling frustrated with having to eat smaller portions and chew food thoroughly, as well as the headaches and nausea that come with eating. Mental and emotional impact: Your mention of having a history of eating disorders is important, as bariatric surgery can bring up old thoughts and feelings related to self-harm and negative self-talk. It's important to have a support system in place and to reach out for help if you need it. Overall, it's clear that you are going through a difficult time and that your experience with bariatric surgery has not been what you expected or hoped for. I would encourage you to reach out to your bariatric surgeon or a mental health professional for support and guidance. They can help you understand the physical and emotional changes you are experiencing and provide you with tools to manage them.
  13. Alex Brecher

    Sams Club Bariatric buys?

    Here are some additional items you might consider adding to your monthly order list: Greek yogurt: A good source of protein and calcium. Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and other nuts are a healthy snack that can help you meet your protein needs. Hard-boiled eggs: A convenient and portable source of protein. Berries: Fresh or frozen berries are a healthy and low-calorie snack. Vegetables: Carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, and other vegetables are a healthy and low-calorie snack. Low-fat cheese: A good source of calcium and protein. Deli turkey or chicken breast: A low-fat source of protein that can be used in salads or sandwiches. Nut butters: Almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter can be used as a spread or added to smoothies. Whole grain crackers or rice cakes: A low-calorie snack that can be topped with nut butter, cheese, or avocado. Meal replacement bars: A convenient option for when you're on the go and need a quick and balanced meal. Also, check out The BariatricPal Store! They carry over 7,500 Bariatric friendly products for pre and post-op! Check them out at https://Store.BariatricPal.com.
  14. Alex Brecher

    A lot of scary information

    Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing procedure for many people and can lead to significant weight loss and improved health. However, like any major surgery, it also comes with its own set of risks and challenges. It's understandable to have concerns and feel overwhelmed by the information you're reading online. However, it's important to keep in mind that not all experiences are the same and that many people have had positive outcomes from bariatric surgery. It's best to discuss your concerns with your bariatric surgeon and to ask questions about the procedure, the risks, and the recovery process. Your surgeon can provide you with personalized information and guidance based on your individual needs and medical history. Ultimately, the decision to have bariatric surgery is a personal one and should be based on a careful consideration of the benefits and risks, as well as a thorough discussion with your doctor. With the right support and preparation, many people are able to achieve their weight loss goals and improve their overall health.
  15. Alex Brecher

    Working in an office...

    It can be challenging to work in an environment with a lot of junk food, especially when you're trying to change your eating habits. However, there are some steps you can take to make it easier: Plan ahead: Pack healthy meals and snacks to bring to work with you. This way, you'll have healthy options readily available when you feel hungry. Surround yourself with positive influences: Try to seek out coworkers who have similar goals and interests in healthy eating. Joining a weight loss support group or finding an accountability partner can also be helpful. Practice mindful eating: Take the time to sit down and enjoy your meals, rather than eating at your desk or on the go. Pay attention to the flavors, textures, and smells of your food, and savor each bite. Be prepared to say no: It's okay to decline junk food offerings from coworkers. Be polite but firm in your resolve to stick to your healthy eating plan. Avoid temptation: If there's a particular junk food item that you find especially tempting, try to avoid it altogether or limit your exposure to it. Stay positive: Remember why you're making these changes and focus on the benefits you'll experience, both in terms of your health and your weight loss goals. By making small changes and being proactive about your health, you can overcome the challenges of working in an environment with a lot of junk food and achieve your weight loss goals. Good luck!
  16. Alex Brecher

    Endoscopy questions

    It's good that you're taking a proactive approach to your health and seeking clarification from both your endoscopy doctor and your bariatric surgeon. Intestinal metaplasia is a condition in which normal cells in the stomach lining are replaced with cells that resemble those found in the small intestine. It can be a risk factor for developing stomach cancer, and it's important to monitor it closely. If your endoscopy doctor has recommended another endoscopy, it's a good idea to follow through with it. The procedure will allow your doctor to get a better look at your stomach lining and determine if there have been any changes since the previous endoscopy. In terms of bariatric surgery, it's important to discuss your specific case with your bariatric surgeon, who can provide you with the best guidance for your individual situation. They can also answer any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure and help you make an informed decision. If you have intestinal metaplasia, your bariatric surgeon may recommend a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RNY) instead of a sleeve gastrectomy. The RNY procedure involves rerouting the small intestine to a small pouch created from the stomach, which can help reduce the risk of developing stomach cancer. It's important to follow your doctor's recommendations and to discuss any concerns you may have with them. With the right care and support, you can achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health.
  17. Alex Brecher

    Weight Stall

    Weight stalls after bariatric surgery can be a common concern for some patients. The length of a weight stall can vary depending on several factors, including the type of bariatric procedure, the patient's diet and exercise habits, and individual metabolism. It's not uncommon for patients to experience a weight stall for a few weeks or even a few months after surgery. However, if you have been consistently following your post-operative diet and exercise plan and are still experiencing a weight stall, it may be helpful to speak with your bariatric team for further evaluation and guidance. Your bariatric team can help determine the cause of your weight stall and provide you with personalized recommendations to help get you back on track. This may include adjusting your diet, increasing physical activity, or making other changes to your lifestyle. Remember, weight loss after bariatric surgery is a gradual process, and it's important to be patient and persistent in your efforts to achieve your goals. With the right support and guidance, you can overcome any obstacles and reach your target weight.
  18. Alex Brecher

    Joining the Ranks

    Congratulations on your upcoming bariatric surgery! It's completely normal to have mixed emotions about the procedure, but it's important to remember that you are taking a positive step towards improving your health and reaching your goals. It's great that you have done your research and found a supportive community to help you through this process. Remember to take things one day at a time, and don't hesitate to reach out for support from family, friends, and your bariatric team. Be sure to follow your surgeon's pre-operative instructions carefully, and make sure to get plenty of rest and follow a balanced diet in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Taking care of yourself both physically and mentally will help ensure that you have the best outcome possible. Good luck on your journey, and know that you are not alone in this. The support and encouragement from this community, as well as your bariatric team, will be with you every step of the way.
  19. Alex Brecher

    Questions to ask my surgeon (post op)

    It's great that you have a post-operative appointment with your bariatric surgeon! Here are some questions that you may find helpful to ask during your appointment: How is my recovery progressing? What can I expect in terms of weight loss in the next few months? Are there any specific foods or supplements I should be avoiding? How often do I need to return for follow-up appointments? What signs should I look out for to indicate a complication? Can you explain the long-term effects of the procedure? How can I manage any potential nutrient deficiencies? Are there any physical activities or exercises I should avoid at this time? How can I manage or prevent any potential long-term side effects? Can you provide any additional resources or support groups for post-operative patients? It's important to take the time to ask your surgeon any questions or concerns you may have, as they are the best source of information for your specific situation. Don't hesitate to bring a list of questions with you to your appointment to ensure that you don't forget anything.
  20. Alex Brecher

    Decreased Libido - 2 months post-op

    It's possible for changes in libido to occur after weight loss surgery, as the body is undergoing significant physical changes and adjusting to new dietary habits. It's not uncommon for patients to experience changes in hormones and energy levels during this time. If you are concerned about this issue, it's best to speak with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions and discuss potential solutions.
  21. Alex Brecher

    So tired - 2 months post op

    It's normal to experience fatigue after bariatric surgery, especially in the first few months as your body adjusts to the changes. The amount of rest and sleep you need may change, and you may feel more tired than usual. However, it's important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. It's possible that your energy levels may improve as you continue to heal and recover from surgery. It's also important to make sure you are getting enough protein and other essential nutrients, and to stay hydrated. Talk to your doctor or dietitian if you have concerns about your energy levels or nutrition.
  22. Alex Brecher

    Weight loss stalling?

    Stalls in weight loss after bariatric surgery are common and can occur for a variety of reasons, including changes in diet, hormonal imbalances, or the body adapting to the weight loss. It's important to consult with your surgeon and/or dietitian to determine the cause and address it appropriately. They may suggest adjusting your diet or increasing physical activity. Additionally, it's important to remember that weight loss is not always linear and can fluctuate over time. Keep track of other health markers, such as body measurements, energy levels, and overall health, to gauge progress and ensure that you are on track.
  23. Alex Brecher

    Liquid Diet Struggles

    It can be challenging to stick to a liquid diet, especially when you are surrounded by tempting food aromas. You are doing great by trying to drink more water to help combat your cravings. You can also try distracting yourself with activities you enjoy, such as reading, exercise, or spending time with friends and family. Regarding bowel movements, a liquid diet can lead to changes in bowel habits, including softer and more frequent stools. This is because the liquid diet does not provide the same bulk and fiber as a regular diet. It is important to stay hydrated and speak with your doctor if you have any concerns.
  24. It's possible that the sneezing and vomiting could be a result of a food allergy or intolerance. However, it's also important to keep in mind that post-bariatric surgery, the digestive system is altered, and some people experience changes in the way their body reacts to food. Additionally, hot flashes could be a symptom of a larger issue such as a hormonal imbalance, and it's recommended to speak to your doctor about your symptoms. They will be able to give you a better understanding of what's causing your symptoms and provide proper treatment.
  25. The BariatricPal Store carries a huge amount of bariatric friendly Unflavored protein options at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/flavor_unflavored Some popular options are: GENEPRO Gen3 Medical Grade Unflavored Protein Powder - 3rd Generation! at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/genepro/products/genepro-medical-grade-unflavored-protein-powder-3rd-generation You can get samples of GENEPRO at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/genepro/products/genepro-gen3-unflavored-protein-powder-single-serving-sample-packs Bariatric Advantage HPMR High Protein Meal Replacement Unflavored at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/bariatric-advantage-high-protein-meal-replacement?variant=17894360065 Isopure Unflavored Zero Carb Protein Powder: https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/natures-best at https://store.bariatricpal.com/products/isopure-protein-page?variant=41747900203190 Syntrax Nectar 1lb Protein Powder Bottle - Medical Unflavored at https://store.bariatricpal.com/products/syntrax-nectar-1lb-protein-powder-bottle-medical-unflavored ProCel Whey Protein at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/procel-whey-protein-flavors Super Collagen Unflavored Protein Powder by Obvi at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/super-collagen-protein-powder-by-obvi-unflavored OvaEasy Egg White Protein - Unflavored (24g Protein, 0 Carbs & 0 Fat) at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/ovaeasy-egg-white-protein-unflavored-24-g-protein-0-carbs-0-fat

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