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Thank you. I understand the reasoning for it, it just threw me off when she said it was forever. I even had to ask because I thought I misunderstood her, but nope, she confirmed they’re asking us to avoid the 4 c’s of drinking and to eat deconstructed, protein first. That makes perfect sense to follow the plan while losing and hopefully through that time, build a better relationship with food and learn to choose healthier options along the way. I appreciate the feedback and advice.

possibly or also some people have high blood pressure that is purely genetic I mean if it’s not diet or weight related maybe the surgery doesn’t make it go away?? I imagine that reducing weight and changing diet would have to help some, but maybe it doesn’t cure it entirely. Good you are back on it though for now if you need it.

So I get very very very hungry right before my period and the first few days of my cycle. It is so intense that I feel that there is a hole in my stomach where the food disappears 10 minutes after I’ve eaten. It is so weird and I have never experienced this pre WLS. I have clocked 1750 calories for 4 days straight and a whopping 120 grams of protein because I can’t seem to get full. Then I just lose interest in eating for the rest of my cycle, anyone else experience this? Things I’ve eaten the past few days: Galore of burgers. Double smashed cheeseburgers, a classic burger, and a spicy crispy chicken burger. Maple buffalo shrimps Up close and personal on the spicy chicken burger. So hubby was quite taken aback at how much I ordered (knowing he’ll have to eat most of it, teaser: he did) I got excited to try everything (teaser: I didn’t). I hade around 3/4 of one half of the smash cheeseburger, and a bite of the spicy chicken burger which was soooo good but then I felt so sick and regretted eating that. Hubby ate most of the shrimps, his whole burger and my half. The rest was put in the fridge. There was also a large portion of fries which I didn’t taste.

Not that uncommon and comparatively not more strict. There are variations between surgeons and surgeries with many of these things. Sometimes it’s also related to you, your health, how much weight you have to lose, your relationship with food, etc, Not being allowed carbonated drinks is common. The differences arise in length of time of this avoidance and then whether you can tolerate it. Also you may be allowed sparkling water that you let go flat a bit but not sodas. Same with alcohol avoidance but there are three main reasons often behind this. One is concern for addiction transfer which can occur after weight loss surgery. Secondly, alcohol is calorie dense and offers no nutrients which are vital while we are losing and eating small portions and lastly it will slow your metabolism & dehydrate you. Again some surgeons just put a time frame on it but it does depend on your surgery too. Caffeine is another thing that is allowed by some surgeons and not by others and again there can be differences in for how long you should avoid it. Deconstructing meals is not a forever thing. Certainly while losing, focussing on eating the protein component of your meal first is very important. If you are able after you’ve eaten the protein in your meal. you then can eat your vegetables then any carbs you are allowed. (There were many times I could only eat my protein at a meal and nothing else.) This is because of the small portions we can eat initially & the necessity of getting that protein in to meet your protein goals. It does make tracking your food much easier too. When you near your goal, and are eating larger portions, it’s not as important to eat your protein first but you must continue to hit your protein goals forever so it will be something of which you are aware when you’re eating. In saying that I often ate soups, stews & casserole type dishes, omelettes, etc. which combined protein & vegetables while losing but not every meal and not every day. Actually not allowing protein shakes is also not uncommon. For example, in the UK, many aren’t allowed protein shakes in the pre surgery diet (they drink milk instead). Protein shakes aren’t the sole source of protein & nutrients in that first stage after surgery. Bone broths, consommés and cream soups are also options. Thank goodness too because after surgery those protein shakes can be disgusting. I found them unpleasantly grainy and crazy sweet & struggled to drink one a day. Best advice is to follow your plan while you are losing.However, if you find it difficult to tolerate your food options or to reach your goals ask for alternatives that will allow you to still meet protein goals & other nutrient requirements within any calorie guidelines you are given. How and what you eat once your weight has stabilised is up to you, what you’ve learnt about your eating and relationship with food and if it allows you to maintain a lower and healthier weight & lifestyle.

I get why you're feeling frustrated—it's tough when you're ready to move to the next stage and don't have the plan you were expecting. It's great that you've already started with things like hard-boiled eggs, lentil soup, and canned tuna/chicken. Those are solid choices! While you're waiting for your next appointment, you could try some soft foods like mashed avocado, Greek yogurt, or even well-cooked veggies. Just take it slow and pay attention to how your body reacts. You’re doing awesome, and your dietitian will have you back on track soon enough!

How are your iron levels? Are they low? If they’re low, then you may need a supplement but if they’re okay, you don’t need anything. My iron levels were great & still are so I never took any iron after my surgery. Many people, women especially of all ages, experience anemia and it seems there are many more cases now days than years ago. For some its lifestyle and dietary choices, for others there can be medical reasons behind it. If you are anaemic, ensure your doctor rules out any medical cause first. If there isn’t any medical reason, check your dietary intake. Ensure you’re eating a lot of iron rich red meats, green leafy vegetables, etc. Avoid caffeine when consuming food especially iron rich foods. Caffeine reduces your body’s ability to absorb iron by 60+%. Also your body doesn’t absorb iron from fortified foods (like breads, cereals, oat milks & other milk alternatives., etc.) as well either. Iron supplements can cause constipation. Don’t take your iron supplements with calcium or iron with zinc. Your body can’t absorb these in combination so take say the calcium and zinc in the morning and your iron at night. Remember too, excess iron isn’t good for you so avoid taking iron supplements if you don’t need them. Haemochromatosis can damage your liver, heart, pancreas & joints. Symptoms can include lethargy, weight loss, mood swings, depression, brain fog, irregular or no periods & joint pain. Interestingly, many of these symptoms are the same as with anaemia.

Had mine sept 18th just over two weeks and I feel great minus the nausea here and there I’m learning to do better with my food choices

Omg same the smells of chicken and French fries and all the bad food that tasted sooo gooood my heart breaks for it but I have to be strong if I wanna come up on top of my health

I had my gastric bypass in June of 2020. It was a revision from a sleeve due to GERD. I did really good after surgery as I went from 260 to 220 and than As of the past week I have went from 214 to 202lbs in a week. I have been soooo sick, throwing up everything I eat, I’m crazy restless and my chest feels tight. I feel like something might be wrong but I was in the hospital overnight and they couldn’t find anything other than some levels that were low but I’m still really sick, to be honest it is about as bad as when I first had my bypass. I would love to hear if anyone else has had this after 4 years or if you have any advice on how to get food and nutrients in me. I am getting kinda scared and desperate.

My NP said anything you can easily cut with the side of your fork is soft. Avoid fibrous veggies and stuff with skins which are harder to cut with the side of your fork so that should be a given. Add sauces and gravies to meats if they don’t go down well. Just chew chew chew and try a couple of bites and wait a bit then go back if you’re not sure. Try one new food at a time so if something doesn’t agree with you it’s easy to pinpoint the issue. Cut things into tiny pieces too.

I’m really frustrated and need some help. My dietitian was sick this week when we were supposed to have our appt (not frustrated at her, people get sick). What I’m frustrated about is that my appt was on Tuesday and Wednesday was my 5 week out mark, so we were already pretty much a week behind. I want to start on soft foods and have tried a few, but I’m also nervous because usually the dietitian usually gives me a food plan and foods I should and should not eat. What did you guys start soft foods with so I can feel more confident trying a few more things until our next appt on next Tuesday? I have tried hard boiled eggs, lentil soup, and tuna/chicken from a can.

@JamieLogical are you counting steps daily or going for distance? I need to go back to the basics of eating after surgery. I’m like you and can’t eat a lot of food for a meal and count that as a blessing. I’m recently dealing with a strained groin and doing pt for it. I’m getting frustrated because I’m starting to gain my weight back. There is always an obstacle for me to go through on this journey. Hoping and praying to get motivated soon!

It’s great to hear about the positive changes you’ve experienced since switching to a plant-based diet! Staying hydrated through water-rich vegetables like cucumbers is a fantastic benefit. Craving cucumbers and apple cider vinegar also shows your body might be responding well to these healthy foods. It’s interesting that after hitting your goal, fresh fruits and vegetables have become more appealing. Surgery and lifestyle changes can sometimes alter taste preferences, making healthier options more satisfying. Does anyone else have similar experiences with cravings or new food preferences post-surgery?

I am 88 years old and am thinking of getting my band removed. My band was installed on 8/2008. In the beginning no problems but now I wind up in ER for removal of stuck food. I think the band has shifted over the years as I just completed an upper GI series, and my esophagus looked okay. Now wondering about the risk at my age. I will discuss with my cardiologist. So sorry to hear so many have had problems with the band. that is why they no longer recommend it. If you can have it removed to avoid trips to the ER All the best to you all. Herb

Wow girlie this looks good! I wanted some ideas to do something with cantaloupes that was different! Almost 6 months out and some days I do not feel like eating and I don't. I no longer force food down some days I can fast all day for multiple days at a time, some days it's just protein shakes. This I will try soon! Without the food noise I can now listen to my body!

I have that worry too. I’m pretty good at taking small bites, chewing a lot, and setting down my utensils in between bites but sometimes that still doesn’t take me 30 minutes (I’m also only on soft foods). I feel the most rushed at breakfast when I’m trying to slow down to eat but still rush out the door for work. I think it’s just trying to be mindful and slow down as much as you can. If your body feels okay, it’s probably okay.

oh no I live in CA, the most expensive state UGH! I do Whole Foods sometimes and Trader Joes. I go to the neighborhood Walmart and Costco. Ill have to start couponing for sure

Did you tell your team about the changes in your stool. It sounds like they are trying to help with the nausea and the constipation but that sounds like something they should be aware of. Especially if it’s more than once. It could be something simple like one of the meds you are taking causing it but the doctor will know. If you are able to eat some foods, what about high protein yogurts or unflavored protein powder added to things? Also, if you are not getting enough fluids it could actually be causing your nausea. It’s sort of a catch 22. The more nausea you feel the less you drink but the more dehydrated you get the more nauseous. Do you have other signs of dehydration like darker urine? And have to talked to the Doctor or NP or just the front desk. Maybe schedule an appointment if not and just be sure that the medical team is getting all of the details because sometimes when trying to type it out in an email or whatever things get left out. It’s okay to be the squeaky wheel right now, you are struggling. Their job is not just to chop you up and put your back together. It’s to get you through the healing process too. That includes getting you back to being able to eat and function normally. You will get there. ❤️

Hi all, I had revision from sleeve to bypass on August 26th (5 weeks ago), the surgery itself went well, no complications or issues (so far - touch wood!), but I do have a few side effects that I'm concerned about. I had the revision to fix the severe acid reflux/GERD that I was dealing with from the sleeve and to repair a hiatal hernia - the acid is gone!! (I'm so happy about that!) - but, in its place I am now dealing with constipation (with crippling pain), constant stomach cramping (and gurgling, so much gurgling!), and terrible nausea (making it hard to consume anything, but especially hard to drink any protein drinks or zero sugar drinks). Per my surgeon I am taking a stool softener 3 times per day, plus drinking Smooth Move tea at night before bed, and they have me on Zofran to help with the nausea. TMI - my stools went from an olive green, almost clay-like consistency, to a pale beige that floats (in a matter of a few days - keep in mind that in the last 5 weeks I've had maybe 4 or 5 bowel movements). I can eat some food (I'm on week 2 of the soft portion of the post-op diet) without needing Zofran, but if I want to have any protein drinks I HAVE to have the Zofran. I feel so disheartened. I feel like I traded one problem for another, even though I know in my heart and my head that things will get better and I will find a good balance, I'm really struggling. I started back to work yesterday and I find myself disinterested in being out in the workforce anymore (I'm 53, way too early to retire), I just want to be at home in my bed cuddling my pets in an almost constant state of near-crying. I am on antidepressants, I don't feel like the surgery has affected the medications in anyway, overall I feel good mentally, I'm just not used to struggling this much physically and I'm at a loss as to what to do. I've been in near-daily contact with the surgeon's office and they are super supportive and have been trying to work with me, but I don't want to become "that patient" that sucks up all of their time and patience because "my tummy doesn't feel good". LOL You know what I mean? Anyway - not sure if I'm just looking to vent or looking for suggestions or what, I think I just needed to be able to say it all out loud because I can't have these convos with my family or friends without sounding like a constant whiner. LOL Thanks, Christine

Oh my god that sounds amazing 🤤I have so been craving cake lately 😂 I've ordered some things from the Skinny Food Company, and they have a muffin & mini doughnuts that are high protein & really low sugar so I am excited 😂 Glad to hear you had such a lovely time ❤️ That is very true! I am gonna try and wait as long as I can, but I am in dire need of some work clothes! I will be going this week I think! My boyfriend shouldn't need my car after today so I will be able to get there safely as I don't want to be walking in the dark!

Hey everyone! I wanted to share a few updates as I approach my 2-month post-op milestone. I missed my period in September, but I think it’s finally here today. It’s still a bit uncertain, but I’m starting to wonder if this is connected to my weight loss journey. Yesterday, I did my first aerobics class—LBT (legs, bum, and tums)! It was a fantastic workout, even though I was the slowest in the class. The trainer was super supportive, giving me different modifications to make things manageable. My knees were definitely feeling it, but I can't wait for the day I can work out without pain. Today, I'm planning to try aqua aerobics unless my period decides to make a dramatic appearance (fingers crossed it doesn’t!). I’m really excited for my 2-month post-op appointment at the obesity center. I’ve been taking pictures of all my meals, and I’m looking forward to getting some feedback on my food choices and progress. Thanks for reading, and let’s keep pushing forward! 😊

I wish more people had it. It’s a great tool for me. However, if you have a Whole Foods there’s a QR code in your Amazon app that lets you save more in their store on certain items. Trader Joe’s is also a great option as well as local international stores for certain things. Im guessing by the user name you live in FL. If you have a publix check out their weekly ads and shop based on that and digital coupons. I know Kroger sends me coupons for stuff I buy often as does Meijer (Michigan, Ohio, Indiana based) which is mostly free or cheap produce or meat now so I’m sure other stores do the same.

Thank you so much!! I do think about pre WLS and there are so many times where I would shove my face at work then go home and eat dinner and just not work out because I "will start next week" I do not do that. I track all my food, I will have nibbles here and there and then the weekend I indulge but I work out on Saturdays and stay active on Sundays. Ugh this journey is so weird! I have never been in maintenance so I know its going to take some getting used to. Again thank you for words! they mean alot!

also ok, one last over the top food order as my road trip has come to an end and i *thought* i was starving and everything sounded so good. the side garden salad that automatically came with the entree. i had just one forkful cuz i wanted to conserve stomach space. french onion soup. this was probably the best tasting broth of a french onion soup i ever had omg. but it was a little oily from the cheese and lardons (! never had lardons in an FOS before and i didn't hate it). drank maybe 1/2 of the broth, with a small bite of a cheese covered crouton and a 2-3 lardon pieces. a burger and with a side of mushrooms. I did not even try the burger because the height of it put me off and the bread looked like i would be picking pieces out of my braces for days. the mushrooms however were so yum, had maybe 5 of them. i also ordered an "extra" side of bone marrow...i ate one with a bit of the bread (maybe 1" square?), as again, i wanted to save stomach space. luckily, i ordered beef tartare with sweet potato fries with the intention to share with the table. since i didn't want the burger, this became my entree. tartare was delicious, ate maybe 2/3 of what is shown here, plus 4-5 sweet potato fries dipped in the the spicy mayo. ....and yes, not to worry, my meal companions ate almost all of what i didn't. i can always count on them! i have no idea the calorie count, i did not track anything i ate the past few days. tomorrow morning i'll see if all this food tracking abandon made a diff on the scale....

Y’all over here posting lavish dishes and I’m excited my groceries cost $82US this week. 😂 oh and also the meal plan for this week which we’ve already veered from and made pudding pies and angel food cake. 🤷‍♀️