Inner Surfer Girl

Definitely talk to your NUT about your specific requirements. For my pre-op diet I was supposed to completely avoid starches but fats were ok. Every surgeon is different.

I started wearing a long-sleeved rashguard. It helps keep my arms and shoulders warm. I even wear my swim cap in Water aerobics class to keep my head warm.

This is one recommended by the person who did my psych clearance. I read it before surgery and includes stories of different people's experiences. The Success Habits of Weight Loss Surgery Patients 3rd Edition by Colleen Cook http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008MOKSOO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_udp_awd_rwL1wbZDJHDEJ

I haven't read this one yet, but it might be what you are looking for. (From an article in our local paper this weekend.) http://www.kentucky.com/news/local/news-columns-blogs/tom-eblen/article62909642.html

Probably. It will get easier.

Here is the label from the Mr. cheese O's (cheddar flavor). I don't see soy.

Instead of thinking about all the things you will have to change, try focusing on one thing at a time. For instance, focus on increasing your Water consumption this week, eating slowly next week, etc. Over time enforce surgery I: Increased my water to at least 64 oz of water; Weaned myself off of carbonation; Weaned myself off of caffeine; Tracked my food; Practiced mindful eating; Etc. As others have mentioned you may also want to work with a therapist and/or a 12-step recovery group like OA. Marshall all the help you can get. I also recommend reading a lot. Eat it Up! by Connie Stapelton is a good book to start with. You can do this!

Instead of thinking about all the things you will have to change, try focusing on one thing at a time. For instance, focus on increasing your Water consumption this week, eating slowly next week, etc. Over time enforce surgery I: Increased my water to at least 64 oz of water; Weaned myself off of carbonation; Weaned myself off of caffeine; Tracked my food; Practiced mindful eating; Etc. As others have mentioned you may also want to work with a therapist and/or a 12-step recovery group like OA. Marshall all the help you can get. I also recommend reading a lot. Eat it Up! by Connie Stapelton is a good book to start with. You can do this!

I can't wait to hear about your experience.

It will. Just be patient, follow your program, and stay off the scale. Embrace the Stall! http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/351046-Embrace-the-Stall

I was sleeved in April 2015 and didn't even consider a lap band. My cousin had a lapband and was really happy with her results, but when I asked her about it she said that if she did it today she would choose the sleeve. I don't think my surgeon even does the lapband anymore.

See if you can do it in deep Water and/or let the instructor know about your joint issues. I LOVE water exercise, but still need to make sure it's low impact so I only do deep water. If I wind up in a shallow water class I have to be really careful.

@@proudgrammy rocks! I am so glad you spotlighted her.

I haven't but this sounds like the kind of question you should be asking your surgeon. Anytime you experience sharp or unusual pain you need to talk to your physician. We are not doctors.

I was sleeved and haven't been taking probiotics but I eat a lot of yogurt. Your research sounds interesting. I would suggest that you talk with a variety of bariatric program nutritionists. They would be a great resource for anecdotal experience.

I didn't have a stress test but I did have an ultrasound.

Congratulations!

Pre-op I was told to take D3, a Multivitamin, and iron (because I was anemic). I personally don't think biotin will make a difference pre-op. Most hair loss is due to the shock of surgery/anesthesia, and too little Protein. I think you would be better off just making sure you take the vitamins your surgeon/NUT and PCP recommend and focus on getting in enough protein.

Congratulations! I understand that not tracking seems to be working well for you, but how do you know whether or not you are getting enough Protein? Just curious.

I started eating quinoa pre-op. I made it in my rice cooker and used it in place of rice. Try Pinterest for some recipe ideas. I haven't made any yet post-op but there is quinoa in the Mr. Cheese O's snack that I like.

There is a serving size? Who knew!

How far along are you? Can you eat meatballs?

Yes, it was my first surgery ever so I had no idea what it would be like. It turned out great. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

Congratulations!

I recently got a bag of Brussels Sprouts. I cut a handful in half, sprinkled with olive oil and a little bit of roasted vegetable seasoning, and roasted them in my toaster oven. I served them with a splash of Newman's Own lite balsamic dressing. Delish, What is your favorite, easy way to prepare Brussels Sprouts?