Search the Community

Yeah, I'm in several community groups and social clubs whose night/evening meetings are at hotels (as in bars) and bistros/cafes. People are going to wonder, indeed, when I don't order food or alcohol or soft-drinks in future.

It's my understanding that some Vitamins can interfere with the absorption of calcium. In addition to other meds/vitamins, Calcium needs an acidic stomach to fully breakdown for absorption in the intestines. Since most of us are taking a PPI, our stomach acid is decreased. I found contradicting articles on Prilosec interfering with calcium citrate absoprtion, one article said yes it can/does, the other said no it doesn't. So, I take my calcium mid-afternoon and right before bed. I take my Prilosec first thing in the morning. Iron and zinc are listed in this article: How to Best Absorb Calcium Supplements | eHow.com Step 1 Take Vitamin C at the same time you take a calcium supplement. Or eat a food rich in Vitamin C, such as an orange. This helps with the absorption of calcium. <LI id=jsArticleStep2 itxtvisited="1">Step 2 Eat foods high in the amino acid lysine, which is needed for calcium absorption. These include eggs, fish, lima Beans and soy products. <LI id=jsArticleStep3 itxtvisited="1">Step 3 Take a sunbath without sunscreen for 15 minutes, three times a week. Sunshine is the easiest way to get Vitamin D, which is essential for proper absorption of calcium. Stay out of the sun when the rays are strongest, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. <LI id=jsArticleStep4 itxtvisited="1">Step 4 Divide up your doses of calcium. It appears to work more effectively if taken in smaller doses spread out over the day, rather than a large dose all at once. <LI id=jsArticleStep5 itxtvisited="1">Step 5 Combine calcium with magnesium in a 2-1 ratio - two parts calcium to one part magnesium. <LI id=jsArticleStep6 itxtvisited="1">Step 6 Avoid taking iron and calcium together. It reduces the efficacy of both minerals. <LI id=jsArticleStep7 itxtvisited="1">Step 7 Avoid taking large doses of zinc with calcium. At high doses, zinc can interfere with calcium absorption. <LI id=jsArticleStep8 itxtvisited="1">Step 8 Decrease or eliminate soft drinks from your diet. They are high in phosphorus, which can cause you to lose calcium. High phosphorus intake can lead to calcium excretion in your urine. <LI id=jsArticleStep9 itxtvisited="1">Step 9 Decrease or eliminate animal-based products in your diet. High intake of animal-based Proteins causes increased amounts of calcium to be excreted in your urine. A high intake of sodium is another culprit. <LI id=jsArticleStep10 itxtvisited="1">Step 10 Cut down on junk foods, alcohol, caffeine and white flour. All of these lead to an excessive loss of calcium from your body and a decreased rate of absorption. <LI id=jsArticleStep11 itxtvisited="1">Step 11 Eat foods containing oxalic acid in moderation. Oxalic acid interferes with calcium absorption. Foods containing oxalic acid include almonds, beet greens, cashews, chard, kale, rhubarb and spinach. <LI id=jsArticleStep12 itxtvisited="1">Step 12 Use wheat bran in moderation. Excessive amounts can interfere with calcium absorption. <LI id=jsArticleStep13 itxtvisited="1">Step 13 Check your prescription medications. Some, such as glucocorticoids, can interfere with calcium absorption. Discuss supplementation with your doctor.

I was about to ask how in the world you got WC to pay for bariatric surgery to begin with, but then re-read what you wrote and now I get it. That's an interesting scenario, and I can definitely see why they'd fight having to pay for a sleeve, but I can also tell you that, having worked at the WC center for General Motors at one time, probably 95% of all lawsuits brought against the company by the employee are won, and that includes completely ridiculous ones like "I can't work because I'm an alcoholic because my job made me that way," or "I can't work because of the mental problems caused by my job..." yeah, totally serious. I'd say if the job caused removal of the band, and now you can't have another band, you'd stand an excellent chance of having your WC pay for a sleeve, maybe even without much threat from a lawyer (although you may still have to initiate that process). Hmmmm, interesting. Keep us updated!

So I had my first cocktail 1.5 months out from surgery. My husband and I both had GB within one week of another. We are now 4 months out and we have a cocktail regularly (not excessive by any means), but the usual weekend socializer. Now, everyone has stated that alcohol will hit you faster and harder than before. Well, well....not the case for me. I have had a couple glasses of wine a time or even a couple rather stout cocktails at a time - and well....NOPE - no tipsy, no nothing. I have a feeling it goes right through me now. In the past a couple drinks I would be feeling a little happy. So not sure what is different for me. I wonder if anyone else has experienced this...??

It sounds like you are doing great. I am in the US and I did gasp when I read your NUT recommended you drink carbonation and alcohol, especially so early post-op. My insurance didn't cover my surgery, but my surgeon is excellent and has performed thousands of successful surgeries. You didn't mention Protein at all. My primary focus was and is getting AT LEAST 100 grams protein and 64 oz of (non carbonated, no caffeinated, and nonalcoholic) liquid a day. on my next appt we are discussing counting protein ☺Great! According to my surgeon getting enough protein is critical: for healing and for weight loss. I have found that getting in my protein is a major success factor. My dietician has said its important, but I've also made sure I've aimed for high protein because of what I've read on this forum ☺ I find that it satiates my hunger and helps me to not overeat.

Yes I did. I had been doubting this for weeks. During the pre op diet I had been a good girl. (not a shake diet but i chose weight watchers, half portions) Everyone asked what my last real meal would be and up to half an hour before I took it, I was convinced I would just eat regular food. But then my husband asked if I wanted fries with shoarma (spicy fried meat pieces) I took it, at half a small portion and enjoyed it very much. And you know what? No guilt, for I had been working to lose several kilo's before the operation, my liver would forgive me. I am 3 months out now and haven't had that meal since, and don't crave it. So my advice, yes take a last cheat meal but do not go overboard. Like I said, take half of a small portion. And I would advice against taking alcohol the day before operation, it might linger in your body too long? Anyway, good luck either way

I hate to burst your bubble, but soda and carbonation are not allowed ever again. It can stretch your pouch. I feel for you, I really do. The #1 thing I find hardest to even think of giving up is soda. However, after all I've gone through to get to this point, I cannot for a second consider doing something that might undermine my surgery. So no soda for me. I've already incorporated a new drink into my daily regimen, and cut back my soda from 3-4 a day to 1. But what I'm going to do is continue to drink my favorite diet soda, after it's sat long enough for most of the fizz to be gone. I mean, come on ... first, I had to give up alcohol, then I had to give up cigarettes, now I have to give up candy and most/all desserts. It's sadistic to add soda to the list. But ... c'est la vie ... what will be, will be. Good luck to you.

Shoulder slowly improving. Weird. I went to the movies yesterday with friends and reeeeaaaallllyy wanted the free popcorn I had a coupon for. Well I didn't really want that small free popcorn. I wanted the giant tub of it. And I didn't really want the lousy crapcorn that movies have nowadays. I wanted the old real oil popped corn from my youth. And I didn't want the butter flavored chemical concoction they offer now. I wanted real butter. And even though I was truly slightly hungry, nothing healthy would satisfy my "wants". So I just watched the movie. When I got home later I was truly hungry, so I had 10 almonds and went to bed. I read somewhere to do an apple test to figure out if you are actually hungry or head hungry. Think, "Would one crisp apple satisfy me completely right now?" If yes, have one crisp apple. If no, it's not stomach hunger so figure something else out instead of eating. I'm on track and deliberately didn't go out with my friends for drinks after the movie. First of all I had taken a pain pill for my shoulder so alcohol is a no-no. Secondly, my Saturday night outings have no doubt slowed my weight loss. Wine has calories, and I'm not losing as fast by having it every weekend. So last night I passed. Tomorrow is my weigh-in followed by a rigorous outdoor day of walking (about three hours) with two other friends. So close to Onederland. Maybe tomorrow!?

Sorry, it posted too soon! Lol. I ment to say I am lactose intolerant as well and I use almond milk add an alternative. It has tons of calcium. Start by replacing one or two meals with a protein shake. Get rid of the carbonated beverages and alcohol. That would be a great start! I am Nov 13 surgery so I'm right there with you. Sent from my SM-G935P using BariatricPal mobile app

check what you are eating for sugar alcohol sweeteners.. they can cause diarrhea issues (if you need a laugh, google for reviews of haribo sugar free gummy bears… lol) Erythritol Maltitol Mannitol sorbitol Xylitol Hydrogenated starch hydrolysates (HSH) Isomalt

I told my family. Most of my family is overweight and has diabetes. I told them to tell them they have a choice to make their lives healthier. They all told me how much better and healthier I look. They really don't want to make the change and give up their love for food and alcohol. That is their choice. I have done this for me. I want to live a healthier lifestyle to me a role model for my two children. My daughter is 26 and my son is 20. They are so very proud of me. I guess it depends. I have always had a huge family and we have always gotten along well and loved each other. I thank god for my moms support as well. I just wish my dad would get the surgery. But he won't make the lifestyle change. I am so glad I have made that change.

Welcome. I was considering the band when I went to my first seminar. I never considered the sleeve as my insurance did not allow for it at that time. When I went in for my first consultation, he recommended the sleeved as insurance had just approved the procedure. I freaked all the way home and did some major research. The more and more I read, I knew it was the right decision for me. My husband was very supportive and he is now going through his requirements and we hope to have him sleeve in the spring. My family history has both maternal grandparents on multiple diabetic shots daily, my mother on pills. Strokes and heart attacks on both side, knee replacement, back issues, I have mild breathing issues and non alcoholic liver disease (fatty liver disease). Since surgery, I have already stopped my diabetic pills and will have my cholestral medication reviewed in a few months. This was the best decision, I ever did. Good luck. You will be so happy you did it.

Each doctor has their own opinion about this subject. Here is the information I was given... In addition to meeting with my nutritionist for an hour appointment, I had to attend a 2 hour class which discussed nutrition post surgery. We were told to avoid alcohol at all costs for the first year of losing weight. Not only does it lower your tolerance to alcohol but also puts your liver at increased risks for liver toxicity, cancer and other liver diseases. It can also contribute to hypoglycemia. ulcers and malnutrition. It was explained that your liver is not only working overtime burning fat from your body but if it has to process alcohol then it's giving it a double wammy for having to work that it's defenses are at higher risks for getting sick.

@@LowBMISleever "My comment was for the OP, but I don't take anything I said back. If it offends you that alcoholic beverages are empty calories that cause weight gain, then there's not a lot I can say. It's factual information. On a side note, I rescue dogs and your name implies you do too. I support that :)" You were complaining about the entire conversation and it not being 'supportive' to you. I know alcoholic beverages are empty calories and that's not something that's 'offensive' to me...I'm just not a huge believer in demonizing something that is allowed on our plans (most everyone here is allowed alcohol at some point) and something that I know is going to become a part of my long-term life. I don't like being nannied by strangers, and it seems I particularly dislike it when that stranger is calling people out for being non-supportive of HER dislike of alcohol use in a thread titled 'alcohol'. That's all. And yes, I'm a big rescue supporter and I'm glad you are, too. I've got two awful little rescues running around right now, barking their fool heads off and making my heart feel full <3 All of us have something in common at the end of all of our differences, don't we? Peace

Use an alcohol pad before you apply if you moisturize so they stick well! Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G935A using the BariatricPal App

I know they make alcohol drinks I didn't know they started making protein drinks Sent from my LG-H901 using the BariatricPal App

You need to sit down and have an honest conversation about it with her, because drastic changes (like quitting smoking/drugs & Alcohol, other major life changes) can cause a rift that can eventually end the relationship. So as long as she is aware of the changes (we don't eat together anymore , the stuff can't come in the house, I need your help with this , but that doesn't mean I don't like you, we have other things in common still etc.) and is OK with it and doesn't try to sabotage you (try to eat around you when that was the agreed to change, still brings foods in, nonchalant about your health,etc.) you guys should be fine... BUT SHE NEEDS TO KNOW WHAT YOU NEED FROM HER AND you may be one of he lucky ones after surgery that does not care about it at all (my family and friends can eat what ever they want, idk but healthy food is stocked in the house so the are making mostly good choices by default around me) VSG2017 HW 249 SW 238 CW 167

Lemme guess...your nut was like my nut....about 10% body fat. I mean don't former alcoholics lead the group at AA? Shouldn't people like us be NUTs for WLS patients? Those forever skinny people have no clue what it's like.

I am 57 and working on improving health, so didn't really drink much before surgery either. First alcoholic drink was a wine glass of (still/non-bubbly) hard cider - very similar to white wine, at about 4 months. Maybe 8oz at the most. It was good tho, and I had no ill effects :-)

I was cleared to drink alcohol at 3 months post-op which was right on July 4th. I made a mix of sugar free Cranberry juice and a shot of vodka. Tasted good, didn't make me drunk, sick or passed out. But made sure I ate something beforehand and drank very slowly. Have fun!!

I was told a year, but I sipped a beer at about 6 weeks, hated the taste and still do 8 months post op. Had my first official drink 8 weeks post op, a margarita with lots of ice to dilute the drink. It will hit you fast, 2 sips in and I started to feel a tingling sensation in my nape, that's how I still know I'm getting tipsy. I did notice that even though it hits faster, it also metabolizes faster. I tasted wine about 4 months post op, prefer not to do it, cheap wine its not the way to go, my palate separates the alcohol and it taste like a sip of juice, followed by a sip of alcohol. Since then, I had done a skinny mojito twice. I do try to limit the amount of alcohol I'm consuming because of the empty calories, and because I do not want to go back to bad habits, socially I think is fine.

Too early I think! I was allowed a little at 1mo., and he is more relaxed about alcohol than a lot of surgeons.

When I was 5-6 months out, my plan called for: 3 meals per day of no more than 3 ounces each, no snacks other than protein shakes None of the following: grains, starchy veg (potatoes, sweet potatoes, peas, corn), refined sugar/sweets, alcohol No more than 850 calories per day, no more than 60 grams of carbs per day minimum 64 oz of fluids per day minimum 75 grams of protein per day Track all meals, snacks, vitamins & supplements on a logging program or app (I used myfitnesspal and still use it).

Thanks to everyone (Well, some)! I'm only asking because I want to know what other people have done. I understand that everyone's plan is different, but I don't understand why. If your plan says alcohol after 4 weeks, why does mine say no alcohol for the rest of my life? There has to be a reason your plan says 4 weeks. So I think it's okay to veer to someone else's plan for a second. Cheers to that. I'm having wine at the wedding tonight. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Enjoy your alcohol. It definitely makes a ton of sense for morbidly obese adults trying to lose weight to drink empty calories that additionally impairs their judgement. cheers! I liked this app because everyone was so supportive pre-op and answered my questions honestly. Not sure I belong here anymore. I understand why the veterans don't stay. @@ShelterDog64 My final thought, we have all allowed ourselves to eat and drink ourselves obese - it's gluttony and addiction. That's why we are here. We deserve to be scolded when we go off plan, just like anyone else with an addiction would be scolded for going back to their drug of choice (mine is Pasta & wine). I understand that YOU are not going off plan for YOUR program. My comment was for the OP, but I don't take anything I said back. If it offends you that alcoholic beverages are empty calories that cause weight gain, then there's not a lot I can say. It's factual information. On a side note, I rescue dogs and your name implies you do too. I support that Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App