Deckard

PB2 is a Peanut Butter powder that you can usually get at the nut butter section of regular supermarkets. You can also try adding a tsp of unsweetened cocoa powder to the regular vanilla Protein powders. In my opinion, the Protein shakes are horrible when prepared with Water. When made with a non-fat milk, the difference is night and day. You can also try adding a dollop of non-fat Greek yogurt and mixing it in to the shake Sent from my iPad using the BariatricPal App

After rinsing with mild soap and lukewarm Water, I'd cover that with a small gauze sponge bandage or a bandaid for a week or two. You should be careful not to get it infected while it's still healing Sent from my iPad using the BariatricPal App

Today is Day 30! My story so far: I went back to work for two days during the second week. Then back full time at start of the third. Been on high Protein, low-carb, low-fat solids since Day 12. Enjoying the ground meats (chicken, Beef and Turkey) prepared in a crock pot with veggies. Broiled salmon steaks are another favorite, and cold cuts and cottage cheese have been staples for Breakfast. I stick rigorously to the no liquid 30 mins before and after eating (so nerdy I have a phone app timer) and usually take about 30-45 mins to eat 4oz meals. Getting used to the feeling of restriction on the amount I can eat, but can manage 80g of protein per day fairly regularly. Haven’t used shakes to supplement my protein count for several days, though I quite like them. I use a Celebrate vanilla prepared with Lactose-Fat-Free milk and a spoonful of non-sweetened cocoa powder. Shaken, not blended ? They’re pretty good. No real issues, but constipation has been the only discomfort, so been adding soluble Fiber to my liquids, and a dose or Mirlax in the mornings. I also love the Bariatric Advantage Chewy Bite calcium citrate supplements. Very enjoyable. I find them almost a treat after my afternoon and early evening meals. Been walking a lot, and do 3 to 4 miles a day, but not every day. I do take a few days off. Feeling positive, BP and blood sugar numbers all very encouraging, and down 30lb since surgery. Best to all of you, and congratulations - keep at it, keep focused, and be healthy... Sent from my iPad using the BariatricPal App

I'm Day 4 also following VSG and a hernia repair. Experiences vary form patient to patient, and for me, I experience no pain when swallowing. I take very small sips, and I'm always "drinking" (have a drink by my side) although very slowly. I take about three sips in a row, each a teaspoon size, and swallow for each, and set my cup down for a few moments. It takes about 40 mins to get through 8oz. I experienced slight cramping to begin with, and your new pouch will be gurgling a bit. My main discomfort is from flatulence, and pressure build up from gas. Keep on top of the pain and other prescribed meds for the first few days at least, walk, and take it slow. Best of luck to you, and to Kmori, I do hope this is a turnaround for you. Be well Sent from my iPad using the BariatricPal App

Hi, I am a newbie on this site, but also a 5/16/16 patient. I was released yesterday early afternoon, and I'm at home. Like several on this thread, my main issue is discomfort from gas and bloating, and periodic stomach cramps. I'm able to walk pretty good, and yesterday was able to climb a flight of stairs to get to my pharmacy and stock up on my post-op meds. This morning, I plan to do a slow lap of the small local park to hopefully release remaining gas. I don't have issues with any liquids I've taken so far, but my new pouch is extremely 'chatty' - I'm sipping very slowly (takes me almost an hour on a Protein drink) but there is still a lot of rumbling going on. Since I'm on pain meds, I've decided not to set a goal of getting back to work as soon as possible, but to give it the two weeks recommended by my Doctor I wish all of you the very best on this vital step you have taken in you health journey. You will get through this post-op discomfort and/or pain, and soon will be enjoying the summer feeling rejuvenated.