JerseyGirl68

It is my understanding that this is a Collagen based protein, not giving us what we need. Here is one conversation that touches on this. http://www.verticalsleevetalk.com/topic/65810-i-just-cant-do-the-protien-shakes-help/page__st__40#entry646614 I would do a search, I know some Vets have gone into detail about these Protein Shots. Good luck .

STUNNING! Congrats to both of you!! and thanks for the inspiration.

I was advised not to do too much more than my recumbent bike and walking until my 6 week followup, which happens to be tomorrow.

Hello fellow Jersey Girls! I also have HBCBS NJ, for my sleeve they covered 80%, after my $2500 deductible. They also let me know when I was approved that they don't cover costs to remove the excess skin. There are other procedures that are sometimes covered, but its a struggle.

Try increasing your protein. Fruits are important, but we need to really get our protein in. If you're on soft foods, you can have canned tuna, other grilled fish. Ground turkey, etc. Did your Nutritionist recommend specific things for this stage?

First, Congratulations on such great sleeve success!! I had gallstones prior to my sleeve surgery, but mine were not a constant issue. I would have flareups where the pain was just about unbearable, typically at night. the pain started under my right ribcage and radiated up and back to my shoulder. Gallstones can occur in anyone really, but a big weight loss in a short period of time definitely can bring them on. Nexium won't help gallstones at all. You were most likely given that for stomach acid. On the positive side, the surgery to remove your gallbladder is very similar to the sleeve as far as recovery goes. My surgeon used the same incision sites. I was in the hospital overnight, released on a Wednesday and back to my office job on Monday. You're already on a low fat diet, so that won't be an issue. Good luck, I hope it is nothing too serious.

Hi Jessica: It can be overwhelming to find out things you didn't know were an issue. But on the positive side, you are finding out everything Before having surgery. The h pylori, they can treat. It was found that I had SVT (SupraVentricular Tachycardia) in the middle of my first surgical attempt. NOT FUN. I had a rapid heartbeat on occasion and could attribute it to exercise, anxiety or a miriad of other excuses. I woke from surgery still intubated and scared out of my mind to find they "shocked" me and had to stop half way through. Again, the good thing is they found out. And when I went back a month later, they knew how to treat it with meds. Had you been checked for these things prior to starting your prep for surgery? I am sure you'll be fine and equally sure you'll get some feedback from others who had medical issues similar to yours prior to being sleeved. Best of luck to you!!

Best of luck to you!!

LOVE this product. It really does have a great, rich flavor.

Congratulations!! Glad you are having a smooth recovery!

LOVE this post, Thanks so much Cheri. It really does strike a chord and gives some much needed peace of mind for those of us whose expectations may not be living up to "ideal" in our minds. I recently sent direct messages to some Vets to get their feedback on my own perceived "slow loss". As I expected, their responses were encouraging, spot on and consistent with your mentality. Thanks for your many thoughtful, direct and inspired posts!

Here is a link to one of the many discussions on these protein shots. http://www.verticalsleevetalk.com/topic/64983-wonder-slim-products/page__hl__+protein%20+shots#entry632087 Good luck!

Good Luck!!!

Congratulations!! Best of luck for a perfect surgery and smooth recovery!

Good luck for a perfect surgery and smooth recovery!!

Try this Ricotta Bake too. That was a very yummy meal for that stage too. Its from the website theworldaccordingtoeggface.com Baked ricotta 8oz ricotta 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese 1t. Italian seasoning 1lg egg Salt and pepper 1/2 cup marinara sauce (I used 1/2 cup sun dried tomato alfrado sauce 1/2 cup low fat mozzarella cheese Mix ricotta cheese,parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and seasonings together. Place in oven dish pour sauce over top then top with mozzarella cheese. Bake 450 for 20-25 min. 6 servings 88 cal. 4 fat. 3.3 carbs and 9.2 Protein Like This Quote MultiQuote

Prior to surgery, I was also told I was Vitamin D deficient, not uncommon for overweight people. Fat Cells draw Vit. D and leave you deficient and could make weight loss more difficult. . I have been taking 10,000 a day for about 4 months. I was also informed that it would take at least 3 months for any change in my bloodwork. I went this morning for my followup bloodwork and will be interested in seeing if the weight loss plus supplements have done the trick. Good luck!

Pre surgery I enjoyed PUre Protein brand bars and Atkins Chocolate peanut butter bar. Enjoyed both and plan on keeping some around when I get cleared for all foods.

I pureed chicken salad and had it with a small bit of cranberry sauce. I did the same with crabmeat added a little egg and seasoning and made some mini crab cakes that were very good too. Puree some chili. I never had baby food, and the time I was actually on purees went pretty quickly. Good luck!

For your own sake, talk with your surgeon about all possibilities before your surgery. If no one is at the hospital with you, you want to make sure someone knows what your wishes are in all eventualities. I had a bunch of friends and family available when I was at home, but I was fine alone, I was able to really rest when I got home. I stayed one night in the hospital and like you, had everything ready to go at home. Be mindful of lifting things. I brought trash out in small bags (got me walking too) Same with laundry. Don't over do it. Even if they are not at your side, have someone check in on you via phone, and don't be afraid to seek out help if you need it. Get the number of a local nursing service/home health aid from the hospital to have ready in case the need arises. Be as prepared as you can. Best of luck to you!!

Do you like to cook? Or are you looking for pre-made options? Check out theworldaccordingtoeggface.com She's got a bunch of recipes that are yummy and very helpful.

SWEET!!!

SWEEET! Congratulations!

AWESOME!!! Congratulations!!

HI John! Congratulations on your surgery!! Your post made me remember the first weekend I was home after surgery. It seemed all there was on TV was food commercials. I thought to myself it was funny since I don't remember noticing them before. I think it is a head game we play with ourselves. If the TV is bothering you, DVR your shows and fast forward through the commercials until you are a little further out, watch a movie with no commercials for a while. The beauty of the sleeve is once we are all healed, there are no "never haves" in our lives, just what we choose to have to promote our weight loss and continued good health. I love that I'm not craving sugar or carbs and that I can find satisfaction in healthy choices. If you need distractions, start a list of sleeve friendly recipes you want to try when you're on mushies and beyond. When you are physically ready, have healthy alternatives handy so you don't feel the need to snack on foods that will compromise your progress. These first few weeks will go quickly. Going to the mall to walk around is a good choice, window shop for all the new items you'll be purchasing when your current clothes no longer fit! Good luck!!