TomCruzMomShoes

I took off 7 working days (Thurs and Fri, then the whole next week). Honestly, working a desk job, you can go back after a few days BUT:

- you will be tired, whether you work or not. Most people I speak to or read about say they have low energy for a few weeks. Not like low energy, but like "LOW, I need to lay the hell down wherever I am" energy LOL. Doesn't matter how non-strenuous the job is, staying awake may be an issue.

- I personally had some soft stool issues the first few days (not comfortable dealing with that at work). Other people say they had the opposite in the first week or 2 post op

My recommendation? At minimum, take off a few more days. Maybe go back to work mid-week like Wed or Thurs if you can. Or maybe do shorter days if you can work that out? That tired-ness is really annoying!

8 hours ago, JMW said:

I know - trust the process

I am tracking every bite and all Water - getting Protein and h20 (eating under 800/day)

At 4 weeks only have 18 lb loss - very frustrated - and can not poop.

geez seriously - I know this will work - but I am seriously frustrated

I had/have the poop issue, it really sucks and am still managing it. My surgeon recommended Colace daily, and I also take a probiotic which was recommended by someone like 5 years out of their surgery. A few times I realize I haven't gone in a while, I take a Smooth Move tea to help move things along. I've done pretty well with that combo so far. Hydration is also a HUGE part of it, the more you drink the easier you will go. Good luck, and congrats on your AMAZING success so far (don't sell those 18lbs short!).

10 hours ago, magpie26 said:

Ok people have talked about this before, but I wanted to share or put my 2 cents and my experience in. I'm past 8 months, 253 days post op to be exact. I wasn't a huge drinker but when I drank it was usually more than 2 drinks, so the long and short of it was I always got a hefty buzz or drunk, but I never drank unless I went out so I didn't see it as a "problem". But it was classic binge drinking when I did drink.

Post surgery- after my ok to drink , I had some wine, first glass I didn't get drunk any faster, halfway through second I could be good but since we can't eat AND drink then why ruin my buzz, right? I eat well, I drink my Water, I quit smoking, so I'd have some wine on the weekends (not normal for me) weekends turned into many days of the week, then every night. I've lost 104 now, I was still losing when I drank because I ate very little and I only drank wine. (I'm NOT glorifying any of this) With bariatric surgery I don't think there's a ok 2 glasses and I'm ok (as in not too drunk/tipsy, etc) . Pour that third glass and I was zero to 💯 and for me I would be drunk a lot longer.

Alcoholism is huge in my family, why I thought having a few glasses of wine all the time was a good idea, maybe it filled the void. I tried to rationalize it with myself that because I couldn't eat and couldn't smoke anymore that having a few glasses was ok. I've been in therapy for food addiction, he said this isn't really transfer addiction because I didn't really have true food addiction.

I guess I'm posting this for anyone who asks about drinking and if you have a history of any addiction or alcoholism in the family I would be cautious of alcohol. I should've known, thought about it more, but now I carry a chip from AA in my pocket everyday. I had a problem binge drinking before surgery, and yes you can be an alcoholic even if you don't drink that much, with me I drank to be buzzed or to get drunk.

Im not posting this to be policed about the calories in wine or how it halts weight loss or to be bullied for making a poor choice. I'm posting this in the hopes that someone may read it who may be like me and start drinking a lot, or if someone is in recovery and wants to talk. If you do decide drink, be careful, it stayed in my bloodstream for a long time.

Thanks for sharing, takes some bravery considering some of the police I've seen on these forums. Congrats on your sobriety as well!

21 hours ago, Swanton_Bomb said:

I'm actually a little worried that I seem to be tolerating almost everything well. The only time I almost threw up was when I tried to switch from chewable vitamins to the big pills. Tonight (6 weeks out) I tried broiled shrimp, and while it filled me up quickly, it went down fine. I can only eat a tiny bit but most foods feel just fine, and I worry that I may be able to eat too many things too soon.

You and I had surgery the same day. I am 100% allowed to try red meat, so not sure what the issue is with the dude that had some steak.

Like you, I haven't had any issues tolerating anything, although I haven't tried steak or pork yet. Any chicken/seafood/turkey etc goes down really easily. I can only eat about 3oz of Protein at a time before I get full (lump in throat, burp, or sneeze are my signs).

My surgeon said not to worry, it's GOOD that we can tolerate stuff without issues, we just gotta stay on plan. (I still do the chewables, I HATE big pills lol)

19 hours ago, HannahRB said:

So my specific doctor/nutritionist has told me to be on clear liquid diet (no Protein powders) for a whole 7 days after my surgery. Im on day 5 and slowly the hunger is eating at me. My diet is pretty much a f*ck ton of sugar free crystal light, Jello, and the occasional strained chicken and noodle Soup. (and water) tonight its finally getting to me. Ive experienced mild dumping after the strained chicken and noodle Soup, but honestly im willing to risk the dumping for at least a sip of my favorite Atkins Protein Drink. Any tips? (btw i cannot stomach broth it makes me wanna vomit)

My surgeon has his patients do a 14 day post op clear liquid diet (do not miss it at all). SF Popsicles, Jello, tea, and Protein Water (I did Isopure, get it on Amazon) is pretty much what I lived on. As far as broth, I did something "weird" that worked for me - I bought really inexpensive chicken/meat pieces, seasoned them and cooked them in a broth with onion, garlic etc. like a soup then strained the broth out and threw out the solids. Tasted WAAAY better than store bought broth. It can get expensive and wasteful, which is why I would bought the cheapest chicken pieces I could find (a small amount will do), but it added "something" to the plain broth that made it more palatable, maybe some fat content or something, not sure. You can do a pretty large batch at one time.

All of this aside, you will be weak no matter what, and likely will be for a few weeks. It will pass, the first few weeks are the worst. I am only 6 weeks out and around 3 weeks I got a HUGE boost of energy, so just fight through it for now. If you feel horrible at any point, make sure you speak to your surgeon, and always follow his plan, no matter how much you wanna do your own thing! Good luck!

On 12/13/2018 at 6:14 PM, BlueCrush said:

My input would be that it's not possible to build muscle during that extreme of a deficit, but that shouldn't be your goal right now. Lifting weights while getting at least 60-80g of Protein will help you prevent a losing the muscle mass you already have hidden underneath the fat as you lose weight. It will help you lose fat weight instead of muscle weight as you drop pounds. Believe me, you have more muscle underneath the fat than you think. Think of how hard your muscles have to work to carry around all that extra weight on a daily basis for years.

Awesome! So I'm already pretty much on my way. Getting back to lifting has been great, although I do feel (understandably) weak. Not in a "I feel like I'm going to fall over sense", more in the "****, this 15lbs I used to lift like nothing is heavy as hell!" LOL

On 12/6/2018 at 11:21 PM, BlueCrush said:

Progress pics:

Awesome job dude! You look great!

I JUST started hitting the weights yesterday after being cleared by my surgeon (only 5 weeks post-op). I've been in the gym 7 days a week for 3 weeks now doing cardio, and yesterday I did a few back exercises for the 1st time (lat pull downs, rows, cable stuff, etc). I planned to do back and bis but I didn't manage my time enough and just ended up doing back. For now, my plan is Mon chest and tris / Wed back and bis / Fri legs and shoulders +30 minutes of cardio, and 45-60 minutes of cardio on the non-weight days (perhaps taking Sundays off, not 100% sure yet).

My concern, which I brought up to my surgeon, was the caloric intake. I only eat 600-800 calories at this point, and I understand I won't be able to build muscle as if I ate 2000+ calories, but I WOULD like to tone up while I lose AND not pass out (lol). He said to take it light while I heal, and not to worry about passing out. I guess we'll see...

Sorry for the long ass response....

I am 40 and am 5 weeks post-op. No complications so far (besides, like everyone else, trying to pass a stone where you shouldn't). Just had my 1 month post op appt earlier today and doc says I'm doing well, I feel excellent, energetic, and have had tons of NSV's in a really short period of time.

To the original poster - my 1 week post op appt was a post surgery class that included about 10 other people that were also 1 week post op- I would say at least 7 or 8 out of those 11 people were 40+. I wouldn't worry too much about the age thing.

Just now, TomCruzMomShoes said:

Go all-in and change your screenname to Buffalodude...

Come to think of it, then everyone would just think you're from Buffalo lol

12 hours ago, Geodude said:

Actually that sounds awesome to me. It's like a Shepard's pie puree. I will be eating this soon. Except I'll have to add buffalo sauce to keep with my current trend.

Sent from my Nexus 6P using BariatricPal mobile app

Go all-in and change your screenname to Buffalodude...

4 hours ago, LadySin said:

https://www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/shellys-baked-ricotta-324036

That's the Ricotta Bake - it's SUPER simple, enjoy!

4 hours ago, LadySin said:

May I have those recipes? They both sound smashing!

I did Riccotta Bake. I'm on week 2 of puree and it's still my go-to meal.

8 hours ago, BlueCrush said:

I have a thread going about this very topic over in the fitness and exercise forum (link below).

I have personally been focusing ONLY on weight training since about 3 months post op. My goal was to fill out muscle to prevent the empty bag loose skin look. LOL. I absolutely think weight training is the way to go and would recommend starting ASAP.

Awesome! I'm following the post and see you're killing it. I guess I'll start light and work my way up.

38 minutes ago, disco stu said:

Although I personally love working out - especially weights - I sometime fear that it's counter productive. The issue is that it makes me incredibly hungry afterward, which often leads to over eating\not sticking to the plan. Just something to watch out for.

Remember: Abs are made in the kitchen.

I'll certainly keep that in mind!

Hey dudes, I'm 3 weeks post op at the moment and anticipate being cleared to start lifting weights in the next week (hopefully) or few weeks. I've been going to the gym and just doing walking for now, but mostly getting my body adjusted to getting up and actually going to the gym before work. SO my questions:

1. What is the best type of weight training post op or what has been successful for any guys in here? I've worked out in the past and am familiar with several styles of working out like alternating muscle groups (i.e. back and bi's, chest and tri's, etc.). I'm also familiar with full body workouts a few days a week, compound exercises, light weights higher reps, lower reps with higher weights, etc. Basically I have a basic understanding of HOW to workout, just not sure WHAT to focus on, especially considering the limited calories?

2. Speaking of calories, I've been recording my macros, getting between 60 and 80 grams of Protein, and around 600-800 calories. I'm sure I need to push that up a bit once I start eating regular foods, but what would be a good goal to aim for in the future? I am currently 265, 5'8", 40 years old.

3. Should I be focusing on weights AT ALL? Or should my efforts be focused on cardio, then weight training later?

I should probably mention my goals: obviously to lose weight, and just "get healthy". I'm not trying to get super bulky or win a strongman competition, but I certainly wanna develop SOME muscle tone as I lose the weight. Thanks in advance!

6 hours ago, Ivydarling said:

Ok great. That means some walking or elliptical time would be ok. Thank you

I'm 3 weeks post op and my program cleared me for "exercise" at 2 weeks post-op. The surgeon suggests AND recommends just doing brisk walking or elliptical, but nothing too strenuous until 4-6 weeks. Remember your calorie intake is pretty low and your body probably not used to it yet so don't go crazy. I walk 45 to 60 minutes on the treadmill every morning and I've done well with that until he tells me I can do more.

BUT....I would call the surgeon's office and ask anyways, just to be sure.

10 hours ago, starrystarstarr said:

Sleeved today and recovering nice and slow!!! Keeping you all in my prayers and sending out healing vibes.

Sent from my SM-J737P using BariatricPal mobile app

Congrats!

10 hours ago, Puppycat said:

I got it!!!!! Just got out of hospital a couple hours ago. Pain after I woke up was pretty bad since the whole opioids blocker thing but that passed and nausea was an issue but got that under control last night. I was so worried they would find some reason I couldn't get the surgery but everything went well! I got some gnarly scars but it's not like I didn't already have a marked up belly, and a small price to pay. I am so happy I still can't believe it's real. Thankyou for the support guys I really am greatful for y'all

Congrats and good luck!

15 minutes ago, sarahe said:

@TomCruzMomShoes, Yes, great minds think alike. Amazon is currently working on sending me the fusion bariatric unflavored Protein Powder. If I remember correctly theirs was 27g per scoop so in 2-3 business days, I will be on that gravy train with you. Is it truly unflavored or do you get a little after taste? I wanted to add it to some of the food too like refried Beans or hummus. They were recommended to me but have very little Protein in them so I was going to give them a boost.

I start the puree stage on Monday and I am ready but also nervous bc I REALLY don't want to fall back into any bad habits. But I am trying to stay positive and keep working at it. I am 25 days post op but my Doctor had me on 2 weeks of liquid then 2 weeks of full liquid (protein shakes/powder) so I am beyond ready for texture back into my life!

Thanks for the tip! I really appreciate the advise.

IF there's an aftertaste or some sort of taste, the Crystal Light drowns it out. I did try half a scoop in a guacamole mini cup and did taste the Protein a bit. But either way it doesn't bother me.

3 hours ago, sarahe said:

@Jazzy1125, Thank you so much! I know this might sound silly but there is comfort in numbers. Glad I am not the only one still working on it lol. I didn't even think about spreading it out more, I need to do that. And the whole not drinking for 30 mins before and after is going to take some adjusting for sure! Last night I ordered some unflavored Protein Powder that will hopefully help during the pureed stage. After a month of liquids I am getting really excited about a change to the menu. This is so helpful, thank you again. I will continue to trial and error until I find my groove. Good luck on your journey!

So I think someone on Instagram helped me with this - they suggested and I bought unflavored Protein (I bought Unjury brand but there's tons) and I add it to my water bottle with a packet of crystal light. That way I am getting in protein and liquid simultaneously. Since I started doing that, I haven't had a problem hitting my protein goal of 60-70 grams per day. One scoop is 21 grams, I normally just do one scoop per day, 1/2 scoop in 2 bottles of Water. That 21 grams is HUGE, since I already get 30 from a Protein Shake then the rest from whatever foods I eat.

FYI I am 19 days post-op, on day 5 of my 2 week puree diet, and I personally do not have any issues getting my fluids in as I drink pretty much all day. There's literally a 32 ounce water bottle not 6 inches from my hand as I type this. Hope things get easier!

59 minutes ago, Matt Z said:

No. You are not drinking too much, you cannot compare yourself to others as each surgery is 100% unique from the next. Even twins having the exact same surgery by the exact same doctor on the exact same day would not experience the same post-op "issues".

You sound like you are doing good, why does everyone get concerned when they are doing good?

I had the same concerns. It's not so much "concerned when they are doing good". For me, it was HAMMERED into me that I'd struggle with liquids and day one I was drinking Water in amounts I could before surgery. So the questions become "Am I doing well or am I missing restriction I'm supposed to have."

1 hour ago, CristinHope said:

I am on puréed presently, as well. A really easy thing is to purée some chunkier Soups. Those give you some Protein and veggies. Low-fat small-curd cottage cheese, low-fat ricotta cheese, mashed cauliflower, thin grits or oatmeal, oven-roasted butternut squash, baby food (you laugh but it’s convenient!)....That’s about all I’ve got, as far as suggestions!

All of these! Also Greek yogurt has a ton of Protein as far as bang for your buck. I bought protein pudding off Amazon, the brand is MHP and they are pretty good to snack on. A bit expensive but worth it. You can scramble 2 eggs with one tablespoon of milk and throw that in a food processor to puree as well, it makes 2 servings but if you miss eggs it's ok (consistency is weird but I enjoyed them). Add cheese if you'd like. Refried Beans are good. And my favorite meal has been the Ricotta Bake. Do yourself a favor and make this in a cupcake pan and they are a great 4oz meals with good protein and tastes great.

I'm currently 4 days into my 2 week puree phase so lemme know if you have any questions! Pinterest has TONS of ideas for pureed meals as well.

@Yessican

Agreed that Baritastic is awesome. So many positives including it syncs with Fitbit, and your surgeon MAY have a code which when used, puts their entire specific program right in the app. My surgeon has a code and I can look up my entire program. I attached what it looks like for me when I wanna look up info or even contact my nutritionist directly. It has recipes and everything.

It's literally a one stop app for weight, exercise, macros, etc.

P.S. no, I don't own stock in the app lol

1 hour ago, KentuckySteve said:

hey i am using the unflavored Protein genpro and mix it with Water and a crystal light packet i drink 3 bottles of that a day. Anything i get from food right now is just a bonus for me. yeah i cant eat very much either just a coupe bites anf i feel like that is too much sometimes

Ah gotcha - yea I bought Unjury unflavored but haven't tried it yet. I've been getting about 50 the past 3 days, but 30 of that is from a premier shake. I can't eat too much either - I guess I'll start putting the Protein Powder to use. Thanks for the feedback!

19 minutes ago, KentuckySteve said:

checking in to see how my 11/6 peeps r doing its been almost 3 weeks im down 24 pounds since the surgery and a total of 65 since June getting about 80-100 oz of Water in a day and about 90 grams of Protein in a day.. Still have no hunger feeling i just eat something when i figure i should, usually its a half a banana with some PB and maybe a couple spoons of re fried Beans later in the day its crazy how thats all I need now. cant wait to get these last 3 weeks of weight restrictions off so i can start playing with my 2 yea old and go to the gym for some workouts....i hope everyone had a good thanksgiving....

Hey @KentuckySteve Glad youre doing well. I was sleeved on 11/7 and just started my puree diet this Thursday. I'm curious how you're getting so much Protein in, I do a shake daily but I can seem to get enough from foods. Are you adding protein powder? I did buy an unflavored one to start mixing into foods but haven't started yet. Water isn't an issue at all but I cant seem to eat more than 2 to 3 ounces at a time and it limits my calories and protein.