KesselRunnerU12P

(I have not been on for a while and had changed accounts which is why this is posted twice) I've been a huge fan of Premier Protein shakes for the past 3.5 years. Only 1-2 carbs/sugars and to me the best tasting. I've tried nearly every flavor, from your classic chocolate/vanilla/strawberry, to Cookies n Creme; Apple Cinnamon and Oats (which tastes great heated), and one of my favorites chocolate Peanut Butter. You'd think I had stock in the company! (I don't) but I highly recommend. Another change of pace is to try Bone Broth. Swanson makes sipping broths in different flavors which you can just pop in the microwave for a warm and savory (protein) alternative. Lastly, I discovered this late, sugar-free Popsicles and Gelatin (Jell-o) for both pre and post op (and beyond). Post-op, this will get you some hydration, sooth your insides, and a flavorful treat. Hope this helps. The first few days are the hardest. You will do just fine!

Wrong reasons? Are you plotting world domination and/or unfriendly rudeness to small puppies, kittens, or other small critters, etc.? If your reasons are for 'assistance' with your personal health then you are likely on the right track. If you are seeking a "cure", "quick-fix", or any other "set-it-and-forget-it" type of solution, then you may not get the results you are looking for. (my opinion) As many say, surgery is a "tool". After being at this game of life for 40+ years, and going up, down (and sometimes side-to-side), I found short term successes and many things I just couldn't maintain. After trial and error, and error, and... (you get it), I learned simply: "if I really wanted to change my Life, I had to change my Life". Even with changing my lifestyle, I realized could really benefit from an added "tool" to help me maintain my progress and help keep me on track. I've been at this too long to revert and this "tool" would really help give me an added platform to back me up (even 'when' I slip.. and we do still slip from time-to-time). It won't work on it's own though. You have to be willing to put in the work. If you've made it this far in the process, then you are seemingly ready for the commitment to improve your health. It is not a cop-out, short-cut, or easy fix. I hope this helps a bit - or at least encourage some reflection. Best of luck!

I'm a guy but hope this helps. This came up as one of those "memories" timeline photos - MAY 2019 vs MAY 2020 on the same day. Surgery is a helpful tool, but you have to put in work as well! (VSG not bypass - but same concept)

Encouragement! 38lbs is a great accomplishment. When you say you feel no restriction, it sounds like you may actually be unconsciously testing your limits at the same time. You may unknowingly (or maybe knowingly) trying to see how much you can eat. There was a few times I remember doing this as well when I was first able to eat a bit more. May I suggest trying trying my old trick... If it is not time for you to eat: (1) If you 'think' you are hungry or need/want a snack - drink a bottle (16oz) of water/hydration and wait 10-15 mins (2) After 10-15 mins, if you still feel the urge, drink another 16oz (3) After that, if you are still hungry: Eat Something! This will help you stay hydrated, aid satiety, and keep you busy stretching time between meals and grazing. I suggest planning, preparing your snacks in advance. Having set portions already ready to go helps keep you on track with what you should consume and keeps you away from snacking based on sight. Last one for now - protein and hydration. Proteins (low/no sugar or carbs) like shakes, bars and powders help get you the nutrition you need and curb your hungry. And you can never get too much hydration! I'm just over one year post VSG - down 150+ from start of my journey and am just getting back to the forums. teh best advice I've found is from 'my' Dr. and peers on this same journey. Wish well - keep on the path!

Haha... sounds about right! More width gave the illusion of much more height... Now with less width... Sent from my HD1925 using BariatricPal mobile app

Anyone else experiencing this?: Emerging after the holidays, Post-OP, and seeing folks I have not seen in quite some time. Aside from awesome WL reactions, I keep getting the unexpected reply, "Did you get shorter?". At first I thought it was just a reaction to me being an overall smaller human (I was always a big guy, 6ft peaking @350lbs in DEC 2018 just before starting my WL journey), however, even folks I haven't seen in years are saying the same thing. I haven't checked with my Dr. yet but wanted to see if this is just a common reaction based on perspective or a real physical change. If anything, I thought I might seem a bit taller; walking more upright, slouching less, and much more active. (my first topic posted!!!)

Howdy all - Excited to have now crossed over to post-op. Had VGS 18DEC with the incredible Dr. Joseph Greene, Maryland Bariatrics. You can read and read and read, but still not know what to expect. I have to say, 2 days post and I am getting along better than anticipated. A bit achey but will prepared. Excited about the next leg of my journey. Glad to have a home to share, learn, support and get supported! Only drawback... couldn't go see SWIX on opening day [emoji19] [emoji3] KesselRunnerU12P -Out Sent from my SM-G935T using BariatricPal mobile app

(18DEC) Guess I was pre-op up to this morning! Now I'm offically post-op! Sent from my SM-T817T using BariatricPal mobile app