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I just choked down not quite half of an acai berry one, and I had to dilute it with water and put it on ice. Then I read the reviews on Amazon that said these things don't have the right kind of protein in them, that collagen protein isn't absorbed like whey is. I had bought three vials, but I'm taking the other two back.

I had my surgery on the 10th as well. Spent two nights in the hospital, came home the 12th. I started on full liquids on the 14th. So far, so good. I'm just really tired and I have these giant bruises from the shots of anti-coagulants they gave me. My incisions are also sore, and one of them (I'm assuming the main one) is the worst, especially as it's directly next to one of those giant bruises. Here's a trick with the protein - it's easier once you start on the full liquids. Make everything with "double strength milk" - skim milk mixed with nonfat dry milk. That boosts the protein content considerably. Make your shakes, your puddings, your cream of wheat, etc. with that. When you make cream soups, sprinkle a teaspoon of the dry milk or unflavored protein powder in with that. When you make cream of wheat, mix in a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon protein powder - yummmy!!!! Just remember, this is a new phase in your life. Your tastes are going to have to adjust. Protein shakes are not going to taste like pizza and donuts, and this is GOING to be a rough ride for a little while. But don't skimp on the protein, because you absolutely need it to heal properly. I'm lucky enought to have health insurance and to be able to take a month off with pay through my disability insurance, so I'm doing exactly what the doctor ordered and I'm resting, resting, resting. I get up and walk whenever I can, five minutes at a time, stretch my legs, etc. This is very important to avoid clots. For those looking for a good protein powder, I recommend Synergy's Bariatric Fusion, which you can buy online. It has 27 grams of protein in one scoop and comes in a million different flavors (if you're a coffee fan the cappuccino flavor is really delicious if you blend it with ice). If you want something less expensive, the Pure Protein that you can buy in the store isn't too bad, and it's very high in protein as well. Stay away from Muscle Milk. The regular has too much sugar, and the light version tastes like liquid plastic. Super nasty. Happy healing!!

Ah, PERFECT!!! That's exactly what I was looking for, and our posts crossed. THANK YOU!

I work part-time in a coffee shop, so when I work I usually fill a large cup with water and then mark off when I finish, but even that's a flawed system, since I don't always finish. And on days when I don't work or when I'm working in my office or from home, that's what I'm most concerned. I need to figure out a system where I can remind myself to drink, because I'm really bad about that. If there was an app that would send me a notification when it's time to drink more liquid, or that would warn me at a certain point that I'm not up to par on my requirement, I think that would be super helpful.

I started my LRD today. First of ten days (VSG scheduled for April 10). I have to drink three to four shakes plus 64+ ounces of liquid. I was wondering if anyone knows of an app I could use that would track my liquid intake so that I know how much I'm taking in (I want to make sure it's enough). I could be old-fashioned and just write it down, but apps make life easier, which is why we use them, right? :-)

Oh, I've gone totally public with my surgery. I have a blog and everything, and I keep everyone updated on Facebook, too. I know that there's a chance I could fail at this, so in my mind if I have people cheering me on and really rooting for me, then I'm less likely to slink back into old habits. I have immense support, but I just wish my mom were more supportive. My aunt will be at the hospital all day with me on Sleeve Day, and my sister will be here with me my first night at home, and I have a ton of friends who've offered to come by and help, keep me company, feed my pets, etc. But I feel like a big old brat because "I want my mommy," and she is resisting this thing. Tell your friends, and if they ask questions? Educate them. That's what I do. Or start a blog with a "FAQ" section. I did that, too. I'm not shy about talking about this, and I feel like the more people know what I'm doing and going through, the more they'll understand. You shouldn't do this alone, Lory.

I don't have a husband or a boyfriend, and I usually like to travel alone but this time I need people. I'm lucky that I have the support of most of my friends and family, but I'm a little heartbroken that my mom wants nothing to do with it. I asked her if she'd be here for my surgery (she lives 90 minutes away) and she said, "Oh, that's a Wednesday? I probably have to work that day." SHE WORKS FOR MY BROTHER IN LAW, who would be MORE than willing to give her time off to come and be with me. Ugh.

Thanks, Oregondaisy. I figured there was probably a really extensive thread on the topic, but I couldn't find it right off the bat so I got impatient, LOL!

Hey all, I'm having my sleeve done on April 10th and I start my pre-op liver-reduction diet on the 31st (Happy Easter! LOL). I bought some fusion from my clinic, but I'm wondering if there are other alternatives. I mean, I know there are a ton of Protein powders and shakes out there, but at nearly $40 a tub I'm looking for something a little more economical. However, I don't want to sacrifice quality. Post-surgery I know some people who've been drinking the Muscle Milk light shakes, and there are a couple other low-calorie/low-carb shakes out there, too. Just wondering what everyone else has used and if you have any recommendations. Oh, also...I have a blog about my experience. Is it okay to post the link here for others to read? <3

We are the same day!!!

Hi! I'm April 10th - five weeks from today! This is my first post, but I've been lurking a bit here and there. I plan to hang out here a little more as it gets closer, though. I'm really glad I found this forum!