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Sojourner

Gastric Bypass Patients
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Everything posted by Sojourner

  1. Sojourner

    Berries

    I'm not certain how you would be able to eat berries and not eat the seeds...but berries of all sorts were on my surgeon's list of allowed foods. I initially post band did avoid eating the skins of fruits such as apples and grapes, however I am able to tolerate them now with 9+ months post op. I've continued to eat berries often, and have not experienced any adverse effects from either the berries or the seeds. As with all questions which concern you related to health and well being, it's always best to discuss this with your surgeon or their medical team. Remember, each one of us is an individual, and we will not have identical tolerances for foods. I wouldn't worry about the berries, especially if no seeds were visible.
  2. Sojourner

    GOAL REACHED! YESSSS!

    Congratulations!! I love reading success stories...so inspiring.
  3. Sojourner

    slippage

    Most likely you will not feel any significant restriction from your band until you have had at least a couple of fills...and you are definitely still in the healing stage. I did have some degree of restriction from day 1 without my band being primed with any Fluid. Over time, you will get to "know" your band and what it feels like when it is working as it should. When a band slips, you usually will experience a feeling of either excessive restriction and/or will not be able to keep anything, even fluids in your stomach/pouch. That said, everyone is different...so to get a clarification on your question it would be helpful for you to discuss this with your medical team.
  4. Sojourner

    Sort of have a concern

    I began to loose my hair at around 3 months post op, and it continued for around 2 months. My stylist of 20+ years estimated that I lost 10% of my hair, which is fine and I was depressed about the loss. About 6 weeks ago my hair began to grow back, and I have not noticed any additional hair loss. I attribute to most of my hair loss to the shock your body goes through post op with adapting to a new diet and level of nutrients. Following my surgeon's advice, I now take 5000 mcg of Biotin daily.
  5. Sojourner

    feel like a tart for asking this...

    Chez is correct...walking post op not only helps with getting rid of the gas, but also lowers your risks for developing DVT. I did not find that Gas-X helped, but the walking certainly did. This problem only lasts for a short while...you'll be fine!
  6. Sojourner

    The new kid

    Welcome to the forum... Best wishes on your journey to a healthier and more physically fit new you!
  7. Sojourner

    Gum?

    I was advised by my medical team "NO gum". If accidentally swallowed,likely it could contribute to a stuck episode, and would not be easy to digest. I subscribe to the philosophy of minimizing risks...why risk creating a possible problem when it is so easy to avoid? Sugarless gum was not difficult for me to quit using...and I don't miss it at all.
  8. Sojourner

    Protein shakes vs slimfast

    The type of Protein and amount of protein a shake/drink has makes all the difference. As a bariatric patient, you have special protein needs which can't be properly met by things like Carnation "Instant Breakfast" or event a shake like "Atkins Advantage" shakes. Whey Isolate protein is considered to be a complete protein which contains all of the amino acids for proper nutrition and absorption. My surgeon advised that I needed to only have whey protein, and I have followed his instructions. Whey protein powders are a bit more expensive, but your health and well being is also important. I encourage you to ask your medical team questions, and also become a "label reader"...not just for Protein Shakes but for everything you eat. GNC has a number of whey protein choices...and my protein shakes when mixed with 1% milk provide 37g of protein. The nice thing about GNC products is that they come with a refund guarantee. Likely you will have to try several types of shakes before you find one or two you like. It's an important part of a bandster life. Best wishes...
  9. Sojourner

    Swelling after surgery

    The first weeks post op are for healing, and you can't hurry that. Swelling is totally normal, and gradually it will be gone. No two bandsters will have identical journeys...take a day at a time and follow the instructions you were given by your surgeon.
  10. Sojourner

    What Motivates You?

    I don't know where you live, but there are laws which mandate employers to provide both breaks and a longer lunch break if you are working full time (40 hours). My signature quote is my mantra - "Do or do not, there is no try", and I live by it. I'm married, raised 3 sons, and for several years of my life worked full time, did the usual "mom things" with son's homework, was in school at the graduate level, completed a practicum which lasted for a year, and still managed to incorporate exercise into my schedule on a regular basis...Why??? Because it helped keep my sanity and my thoughts centered. Exercise energizes you if you give it a chance. If you are serious about wanting to be successful with long term weight loss, regular exercise is in that equation.
  11. Sojourner

    To Fill Or Unfill That Is The Question?

    As others have shared, stress does tend to play a role in a band feeling tighter. You could jeopardize your well being if you are unable to have the proper amount of fluids and nutrition you need. I was recently sick, and tried for 2 weeks to cope with my band which did feel too tight, which it had not previously to being ill. I went in for a small unfill and it has made a world of difference. I'm able to drink the fluids I need, which was a definite concern for me. Definitely discuss this with your surgeon or other staff and let them know what is going on. They should address your concerns and will make a recommendation to you.
  12. Sojourner

    Advice Wanted

    It's totally normal for someone about to make major life changes to feel nervous about their surgery. You most likely know more about what you need to do than you give yourself credit for. When you begin to feel nervous, get back in touch with your reasons for wanting to become healthier. If you have not already done so, create some goals for yourself, and begin to plan on what you need to do to accomplish them. Most, if not all of us have had similar experiences...so come back often and receive positive feedback and encouragement. There are many supportive and knowledgeable members on this forum who will be here for you! Best wishes for a successful journey...
  13. Sojourner

    Why The 'tude Dude?

    I agree that no one, unless they have the proper credentials, should be giving medical advice to others on this forum, or any other venue. We all have been on the "learning curve" at some point on our journey to become a healthier individual, however there is a difference between general advice and questions which a qualified professional needs to answer. I'm unclear as to which individuals you are referring to that "bash" others...I don't condone that. However if you have been on this forum for some time and read some of the posts it does make me wonder if the poster has had any pre-op education. Sometimes when people ask for advice, if you respond in an honest way they get offended. If you don't want an answer, then don't ask the question. I don't know of anyone I have encountered on this site that has malicious intent to be negative towards others. I am a licensed therapist and a certified addictions professional. I understand that there are immense differences between instructions a surgeon would give their patients and I respect that. I encourage posters to follow the instructions they have been given by their medical team, and if they don't understand them, ask their team of medical professionals for clarification...that's why you are paying them. I understand that the motivation for success has to come from within the individual. I also understand that even a professional within the scope of their practice cannot "save" everyone. Sometimes it is appropriate to tell it like it is and not coddle an individual, but always in an appropriate way. Ultimately we owe it to ourselves to be informed, to be motivated, and feel that we can reach out for support, as well as be successful on our journey. It's really not necessary to have an attitude if your interpretation of a post is different from the intent in which it was offered. And because interpretation is a "subjective" measurement, it helps to clarify the intent before you "cop the attitude"... Best wishes for your continued success...
  14. Sojourner

    Clear Luquids

    Clear liquids are just that...you can see through them. The one exception I can think of is chicken or vegetable broth... I drank alot of Water, both plain and flavored. This is acceptable if the liquid is both SF and FF. Crystal Light, SF popcicles, and I'm told by others, though I have never tried it are the "Mio" drops to flavor plain water. Check with your WLS office or the NUT who works with the surgeon's practice about drinking any fruit juice. I was advised that drinking fruit juice was like drinking sugar water as there are many calories and little or no nutritional value.
  15. Sojourner

    Clear Luquids

    Better check with the dietitian...I was advised that drinking fruit juice was like drinking sugar water...something we need to avoid as it is "empty" calories (little or no nutritional value).
  16. Sojourner

    Old Habits Are Hard To Break

    You most likely did not harm yourself with your big bite, and this is a learning process. I know I once forgot and took all of my medication (6 pills) in one swallow like I used to, and though I felt some discomfort, nothing long term happened. You most likely will not feel any significant restriction with your first fill. And neither fills or your band will keep you from drinking during meals. To keep myself from doing that I make certain to be properly hydrated prior to my meal, and not have anything available to drink within my reach during my meal. Psychology and behavior modification play major roles as you do change those old habits...and being in what is commonly referred to as "bandster hell", when you have little or no restriction in your band and are limiting your portion sizes is one of the more challenging phases of the weight loss journey. I found it was easier for me to manage my hunger by using distraction (projects around the house, exercise), and sipping Water on a fairly constant basis between meals. You need to learn effective ways to manage "head hunger", and the band does nothing to assist with that. Best wishes...
  17. Sojourner

    Hair Loss

    From my experience, hair loss is fairly common. My stylist estimated that by around 5 months post op I had lost about 10% of my hair. It began to grow back about a month ago. Through it all, I continued to have my highlights done without any adverse effects. I would never attempt to color my hair myself though. I'm not certain if that would make any difference.
  18. Sojourner

    Not Losing - What's Up?

    I was advised to limit my meals to 5 oz by volume; 3 of lean Protein and 2 of a healthy Fiber carb choice. Until you have some restriction, you will likely have to be creative with identifying ways to manage your hunger between meals. For me sipping Water to reach my daily goal of 60 Fluid oz a day helped immensely...along with distracting myself with projects around the house or exercise. The band is only a tool; you have to learn how to use it properly and understand the unique relationship you will have with your band. Just because you can eat more than a cup of healthy foods does not mean you should. Until you have restriction you will be able to eat just about anything you want to...however again, just because you can doesn't mean that you should. Your weight loss success will be directly tied to how completely you embrace and follow the "bandster" way of life of strict adherence to portion control, healthy food choices and regular exercise. 1200 calories a day does seem to be high for weight loss. For those of you who feel that your weight loss has stalled, look at what and how much you are eating. Through my own experiences, I have identified 3 reasons why I won't loose weight; not enough calories, not enough exercise and not enough protein. The band, being the tool that it is provides for a slower rate of weight loss, which in my opinion is a healthier way to loose weight. I've had to learn to become patient. The reality is that you did not become obese quickly, nor will you loose weight rapidly. Take a day and a pound at a time...and stay focused on your goals. Everyday there are choices to make...make yours healthy ones to be successful. Best wishes for everyone's weight loss success...
  19. Sojourner

    Itchy!!

    I don't know what a "scopes sites" is, however if this means your incision sites, it means that your incisions are healing...
  20. Sojourner

    This Isnt How I Thought Id Feel!

    Everyone who has posted on this thread has shared some valid, important, and inspiring insights. In my journey, I have discovered how I have finally learned to use the life skill of patience. I did not become obese overnight, it will be a journey and not an event which will get me to my goal weight. I realize how far behind our sense of self is behind our body...it has taken me months to finally realize that my weight number no longer begins with a 2. I've had setbacks along the way, but it helps to stay focused on the person you will be when you reach your goal. So much of the success one experiences with weight loss is closely tied to psychology. Somewhere on this forum I wrote about the "Psychology of Size". It took months, and physical intervention from my sister for me to quit going to the plus size department, not to mention my tendency to want to purchase the same item in a plus size "just in case I gain weight again". Pay attention to the many small "aha" moments to help you gain a more accurate insight into how far you have come with your weight loss. For me a major one was to be able to get into my car and not to have to adjust the seat before driving. I knew that at my former weight, that would have been impossible. Another was when I was at a restaurant with my husband and realized how far the table was from me. The booth had not changed, but I certainly had. Small events like these help to validate your progress. Not many people have commented to me on my weight loss, however I am totally alright with this. What is important is that I am aware and feeling better about myself. I validate myself for my progress, and don't care what others notice or fail to notice. Remember this is a process and not an event! You have made some excellent progress to date...keep your eye on the prize of a healthier you. You're well on your way... Best wishes for your success...
  21. Sojourner

    No Excercise 10 Wks In

    Just as other aspects of embracing a healthier lifestyle, exercise is one of the core values which come with that health. I raised 3 sons, worked full time, and for 3.5 years was also in school full time at the graduate level, all at the same time. Yet I still scheduled daily exercise into my day/evening and made it a priority. Why??? Because it helped to keep me sane through it all...exercise tends to energize you as it creates the "feel good" neurotransmitters referred to as endorphins. I previously used a treadmill, then after a serious car accident changed to a recumbent stationary exercise bike. Now I have orthopedic issues which temporarily don't allow for me to pedal the bike, so I add extra steps in the house. I intentionally make extra trips from the laundry room to the bedrooms. If carrying groceries into the kitchen from the garage, I make additional trips by carrying only one bag at a time. I'm not happy with my current physical limitations, and I'm diligently working to have them resolved surgically. The point I'm trying to make is that if you choose to accept exercise is a high priority for you, then you will make the time for it...it's a wonderful way to keep both your body and mind healthy and happy. Scheduling 30 minutes a day for 4-5 days a week should not be difficult. Best wishes for your success...
  22. Sojourner

    The Doctor

    I'm a strong advocate for each of us to be proactive to address our health concerns...that said, it is really your right to know the answers to legitimate questions you pose to your surgeon about your LB status. I may be different from others, but I have seen too many examples of how inexact a science medicine can be. My knowledge and understanding of my personal medical history has adverted more than one potentially serious medical error. Even doctors can make mistakes. If a patient asks a question, you deserve an honest and prompt response. IMHO...
  23. Sojourner

    New Fear Of Ever Throwing Up Again

    Two weeks ago I experienced a stomach virus, and have not felt the same since vomiting twice. My band has been feeling more restricted, and even sipping liquids has been difficult at times. I went back onto liquids for 2 days post illness, and have been extra careful to choose foods which I know don't get stuck since then. I will definitely call my surgeon next week, as it does seem that I will need to have some Fluid removed. I hoped that given some time, the inflammation would calm. It seems that will not be the solution...
  24. Sojourner

    Who Is Correct Here?

    The brain needs carbs for energy to run on...so we need some carbs. We just need to make them healthy carbs. My surgeon allows some fruits and steamed vegetables, and low fat Protein choices. I do eat fruit and vegetables daily, though in only small amounts. The key is to stay away from processed foods with additives. Simple is better...
  25. Sojourner

    Your Last Supper......

    An excellent topic...and when I thought about my "last meal", I honestly cannot remember what it was. I only recall that we went out for dinner at the small restaurant we like located on the other side of the lake that we live on. I guess that's a confirmation for me of how your beliefs about food change when you make the choice to live a "bandster" lifestyle. As a self confessed "Chocoholic", I've discovered that chocolate no longer has the appeal for me that it once did. I'd have to say that both physically and emotionally, I'm in a much healthier place now!

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