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I'm feeling pretty good. I did set a water reminder on the baritastic app, but I'm pretty good a sipping throughout the day. I have a long way to go on liquids and was not tolerating protein shakes very well, so I've switched to Carnation no added sugar added to 1 cup skim milk and I add a scoop of Genepro to it to make it a protein bomb. It isn't as sweet or thick as my protein shakes. I have also added Genepro to thinned soups and yogurt, so it helps me to meet my protein goal of 70 grams. I have a few teaspoons of this a few times a day. It's nice to feel like I'm eating real food.

I saw this on another forum and thought it worthy to share as it has all the great information and advice we all need for the journey! it is written by Mellissa Gangi and what I had wished I had been told from the very beginning. Sleeve Tips: I'm 10 months post op today and along this journey, so far, I've seen a lot of the same questions or concerns from many. I thought these tips could help! 1. Take preop photos... you'll want them! 2. Protein shakes...I used isopure protein powder and scooped it into 2 oz. of water (u can add ice and blend too) to drink in my immediate postop period. It was much less to drink at a sitting and you still got in your protein. It would take me over an hour to drink each one, but way easier to me. Plus, isopure has multiple flavors and it was reasonably priced. I bought off Amazon. Also, Genepro is an unflavored protein powder that is very popular. It can be added to pretty much anything. The scoop is tiny and it gives 30g of protein per scoop. I use it daily in my morning coffee but if adding it to hot liquids you have to add creamer 1st to cool it down or it will clump up or dissolve in a little warm water 1st then add... the directions are on the bag. It is not completely unflavored and it has a smell to it, but most of us get used to it quickly. Your body can only absorb up to 30g of protein per serving, so anything more than that at once will be wasted and it doesn't count towards your daily goals! 3. STALLS happen...stick to your plan and the scale will move again! You most likely will be losing inches during that time. They can last a few weeks...especially the 3 week stall. The further you are out they may even last longer and at that point you may have to shake things up a bit, maybe a day or 2 most increase your carbs then go back to your plan. Don't get discouraged and try to just be patient. 4. No NSAIDS (aspirin, ibuprofen, aleve, motrin, etc...) they can cause ulcers...tylenol products are ok and Excedrin Tension is ok (great for headaches) it has tylenol and caffeine in it, no aspirin like the other excedrin products. Also, peppermint oil rubbed on your temples help for headaches. 5. Fluid intake...atleast 64 oz of non caffeinated, non carbonated, sugar free fluids but the rule of thumb is drink half of your body weight in ounces. 6. Caffeine and alcohol...follow your surgeons orders. They both can dehydrate you and cause ulcers in the beginning of your journey. And alcohol may affect you differently postop, so be careful. Absorbtion changes postop. 7. Transfer addictions...a lot of bariatric patients give up food for other addictions like shopping and alcohol. Be mindful. 8. Increased chance of pregnancy after surgery. You can be much more fertile. Even if you had problems with it preop. 9. Increased divorce rates postop...I have looked into this because I was curious as to why. I have found that it does indeed increase, but the majority of the couples that do have had issues preop and the spouse that had surgery loses the weight, increases their self esteem and simply won't stand for the same behavior anymore. 10. Sugar/Carbs...1st and foremost, follow your plan. There are reasons why your surgeon and/or nutritionist gives you one, especially while healing and it takes approximately 6 weeks for your tummy to heal. After you are advanced to a "regular" diet, usually about 2 month postop, yes you can eat some sweets or carbs but in moderation. Always try to get your protein in 1st, though. I have chosen to stay away from sugar and certain carbs. I don't crave them, so why reintroduce them. I know me, and moderation is hard for me. 11. Everyone's weightloss journey is different. Try not to compare yourself to the next person. It's hard not to, I know! But their weight, height, sex, medical history all plays a part of it. If you do what you should be doing, you'll lose! 12. Dumping and The Foamies... Dumping occurs when your new tummy just doesn't agree with something you consumed. Dumping occurs more in bypass patients but it can occur with sleeves, also. Symptoms can include sudden vomiting, diarrhea, and increased heart rate and last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. The Foamies... you'll know what this is if you get it. It's a lot of phlegm that is produced in your esophagus all of a sudden. It can happen if you eat or drink too fast, or take in too much, or drink right after eating...wait to drink atleast 30 minutes after eating. Plus, if you drink with eating or too close afterwards you flush the food through your belly too fast and you're not absorbing nutrients. 13. Take your vitamins and get in your protein daily! This will not only help your weightloss and prevent vitamin deficiency but it will help with the sunken in look when you lose weight. I was told 60-90g of protein daily, but follow your drs orders. I take 2 flintstones with iron chewables a day because I couldn't tolerate the prescribed multivitamin, in addition to calcium with d3, and magnesium and b12. 14. Gas ex chewables, heating pads, and walking help big time for your gas pains. When I woke up from this surgery I thought I was having a heart attack because the gas was causing chest pains. Also, use the incentive spirometry in the immediate postop period. Anesthesia affects your lungs and it takes 72 hours to completely wear off so the breathing exercises help strengthen them and prevent pneumonia. 15. Heartburn...omeprazole works so well for me. My surgeon prescribed it from day 1 and I love it. 16. Postop hormones... your body almost goes into shock in the 1st 6 weeks or so after surgery from the major changes to it. You may feel different mentally...it does get better but if it's bad talk to your dr about it. 17. Medications... your body can change postop. The same medications you were on preop may be absorbed differently postop so if you notice changes talk to your dr. They may need to be adjusted. And extended release meds may not work as well. 18. Tracking your intake keeps you honest. I love the baritastic app. It also has recipes for all the stages and reminders. 19. Head hunger vs real hunger. This is a lifestyle change, your body needs much less calories postop but you have to retrain your brain. It may take time and that's normal. If you fall off the wagon one day...oh well...get back on it the next. We are all human. Don't get discouraged. Just pick yourself back up. 20. Complications can happen. If your body starts feeling different...new onset pains, nausea, vomiting, passing out, food feeling stuck in esophagus, etc...call your surgeon. You're always better safe than sorry. 21. Abbreviations... HW your highest weight SW what you weighed on your surgery day GW your goal weight CW what you weigh currently NSV non scale victory Nut nutritionist VSG vertical sleeve gastrectomy (sleeve surgery) RNY roux-en-Y (gastric bypass) DS duodenal switch surgery 22. Hair loss or thinning happens. But, it will grow back. I thinned starting at about 4 months. It can last months. Many take biotin supplements for it, I didn't. 23. Get ready to be cold! You're body is changing, it's almost in shock so invest in a Comfy, like me, or electric blanket to keep warm lol. 24. What to bring to the hospital for your surgery stay...a long phone charger, chapstick, your phone, comfy pjs, slippers, a robe, earbuds, and a list of your medical history, surgeries, allergies, and medications with dosages. Others add gas ex chewables but I'm an RN and don't recommend taking any meds from home without the nurses or drs knowledge. Some also say a heating pad to help with gas pains, but walking is best. Also, remember to hug a pillow if you cough or sneeze. It will help! 25. Constipation! It is a part of this journey, unfortunately. The only thing that helps me, and this is not conventional, is sugar free hard candies. A few of those babies (no more than 5 or you'll hate me) and you'll be going within 12 hours. The sugar alcohols do it for me. But, more conventional approaches are benefiber packets, smooth move tea, or miralax. And there's diarrhea in the beginning...liquids in, liquids out. But your 1st bowel movement may take awhile...its all normal. 26. Ketosis...when you cut out sugar and go low carb you're body goes into a state of ketosis. This is a metabolic state that now uses fat for energy, instead of carbs. It aids in weightloss, but has some side effects like bad breath, body odor, bowel changes, fatigue at 1st but then increased energy the longer you're in it, and insomnia. Those side effects will decrease over time so just invest in mouthwash for the meantime! I know this is a lot, but hopefully it helps! If I missed anything, feel free to chime in. Best of luck to everyone!

Wow I’m sorry to hear you are going through a rough spot! Please know this though, It will get better eventually! I gad some rough spots too so I know you can do this! I’m a year out now and even with the rough spots would NEVER go back. What saved me was the no taste protein powder that I could add to broth, juice, water whatever I wanted. There are a few out there but I used one called genepro that you buy at GNC stores. It’s a smaller scoop and dissolved really good into anything. I remember struggling to get in enough liquids and this stuff saved me. I usually don’t post much anymore since I’m doing good now, but your post touched me because your having a rough time like I did. Good luck and keep thinking about where you will be in one short year 😀

Genepro un flavor add to your hot coffee

Hey All! I know that topic has come up a lot and I’ve tried searching but I was wondering what unflavored high protein powder you guys are using that has low calories. I’m just a week out of my sleeve surgery and I want to make sure I’m getting lots of my protein. I’m not liking the pre-made drinks or some HMR stuff that I have, so I’m hoping you guys know. I heard Genepro has high protein but had some lawsuits and might not be that actual high so looking for other options, maybe Isopure? Thanks!

Ironically the Premier Protein is my favorite too. I like the vanilla and caramel. Also, Genepro daily in my coffee.

I am 8 days out of pre-op and below is my experience Things I bought pre-op or immediately after that I use frequently Wedge pillow for when you get home. I ordered the day I got home because I couldn't sleep flat anymore sugar free popsicles benefiber biotene mouth spray, used that in the hospital and for a few days out, saved me. carmex lip balm 5 oz anchor measuring cup water bottle with measurements on it. Torini sugar free syrups...for decaf coffee ice cube tray - for freezing broth popsicle trays - for making your own as store bought have more carbs and calories than you realize store bought bone broths for in a pinch. Not chicken stock, Bone Broth Blender - I had this but I use this 2 x a day for the protein shakes Make sure you have extra protein like genepro to blend in to help you meet your protein goals Silly, but a basket, notepad, designated for all of your post up meds plenty of loose flowey dresses beach coverups - lucky i had a bunch but you won't want to wear a lot of clothes Loose panties subscription to myfitness pal or a good old notebook to document your liquids and proteins and everything I hate water so I need water enhancers, I used publix brand or great value brand orange soy milk - i discovered the lactose doesn't agree with me so I had to buy soy milk get your mani/pedi before because you will be wearing flip flops and not feel like bending over for sneakers Things I bought that I didn't use. I bought a kitchen scale then realized my program does not want me to use a food scale, only measuring cups 100 1.5 oz medicine cups - never used them..I thought I would track my fluid intake this way...ummm..no.. almond creamer, just don't like it Miralax..didn't need it, the colace and benefiber helps me "go"

Thanks for your suggestions. I have been soooo tempted to eat eggs for the same reason - weakness and malnutrition. But I have ordered some Unjury protein powder which I’ve heard is easy to mix and I will try the injury soups as well. Glad I’m not alone in this aversion! Thank you for the suggestion! I have a few things I need to order on amazon so I will add Genepro to my cart.

I am four weeks Post Op - almost immediately I just could not stomach the Protein Shakes. I hate artificial sweeteners now. I have moved on to the Genepro Protein powder. You can get a two serving sample from Amazon to try. I know Amazon and GNC sell it. Its tasteless and dissolves so you have no idea it in whatever you choose to add it to. I add it to Crystal Light Lemonade. I know there are some that add it to soups and potatoes, and all sorts of things.

I'm still figuring it out.. like the wonderslim ones...basically a cheaper version of medifast. bariatric pal has them too. They get branded several ways and are all made by the Rolbard corporation If you find a box that comes with 7 shake packets and it's a pudding and/or a shake you know you have the right ones. Love them. you can spend anywhere between $11 for the box I've seen it for $18. for just 7 shakes but they are good and can be mixed with water. Add a scoop of unflavored GenePro powder then well on the way to hitting 60 gram protein goal.

I was throwing up or getting very nauseous with almost every shake and powder I tried -- Premier, etc. Then for two months, I drank Isopure Apple Melon protein drink (40 g. of protein) and loved it. But it was too expensive to maintain -- $43 for 12 drinks. I've now switched to unflavored Genepro, at the recommendation of my nutritionist. I will be adding it to flavored water.

This actually has what I call a 'small scoop'. It is from a small bag of Genepro unflavored/medical grade protein powder that I THINK i got from BP, but I may have gotten from Amazon. Will have to check. I'll attach pictures showing the scoop next to a Premier Protein shake so you can get an idea of size. A 'scoop' (small scooper) is 7.2 grams which is roughly equal to a little over 2 tsps so you can see that it is a LOT of protein (30 grams) for a small amount of "powder" although I still calculate all of the calories, etc. that come from it. Sometimes I don't need an entire '30 grams' as it is = 58.7 calories. Sometimes I do a 1/2 scoop or roughly..a little of 1 tsp. It all depends on where my calories are at for the day. However, if I am not hitting my protein or need a boost, then I don't worry about the extra 58.7 calories. There were days when I was having an issue getting any 'real food' in and then I added this stuff to diced peaches, yogurt, you name it. However, my calories were very low so the addition of the extra 58.7 calories didn't matter. For 1 scoop if you use entire amount - besides 58.7 calories, there is .3 grams of fat (negligible to me), 0.6 gms of carbs (negligible to me). 0.6 sugars (negligible to me) and 30 gms of protein. Here are the pics of the nutrition info and the baby scooper next to my premier protein drink (I do NOT add anything to the premier protein drinks as they already have 30 grams of protein..lol).

Hi @SassyTwin I am very new to all of this as I had a sleeve done on Aug 12th and an emergency bypass done a week later, so I hadn't read much on the bypass as that isn't what I went in for lol So, even though it had to be done nobody filled me in on the differences or the info I needed regarding the bypass. So you may well know most of these but I will share my questions and ponderings with you anyway. Take extra sleepwear/underwear just in case you end up in there longer than anticipated. Take basic toiletries Take some feminine hygiene products just in case, the sudden change in hormones from surgery and drastic weight loss so quickly caused a release of oestrogen from the fat cells which meant I needed some products, even though I am perimenopausal with a coil and haven't needed any for a while! (that was a shocker!) I wish I had taken a good body lotion in with me as I became very dry all over, my skin looked like it had aged 10 years everywhere I wish I had taken my own v-shaped pillow in as I found the hospital pillows really thin and pointless. (I got it in there in the end!) If you are on medication before you go in, find out about getting all of them in liquid form if possible. Take a heat pack and an instant ice pack or 2 You will be uncomfortable lying on your back if you are usually a side sleeper, so be mentally prepared Have a good protein powder ready at home that is a small scoop (genepro) rather than the one I currently have which is a large scoop and froths up too much. Have a good supply of savoury high protein soups ready at home because those of us with a Bypass don't seem to be able to tolerate the sweet one's post-op. Learn what you can about dumping syndrome so you can try and prevent it happening to you Learn what you can about being lactose intolerant post-op too, I didn't know this was a thing with bypass Read read read what you can on here, so much fantastic info, advice and support GOOD LUCK

I like genepro protein powder. It’s unflavored and is a small scoop for 30g protein. I mix it with water and crystal light powder and cannot tell its even in there. You can buy it at GNC or on Amazon.

Hi Try unflavored protein powder (Genepro & Isopure) Protein water (Premier, Protein 2o), Protein juice style powders (Syntrax), protein shots and protein soup. The BP store here has a lot of different types. Also try whey Isolate not concentrate (Isopure) & vegan protein (Ghost) Good Luck 💜

I bought unflavored protein powder and add it to soups, yogurt, purées. That had been helping tremendously in trying to achieve my daily goals. I went to GNC and bought Genepro. They were very nice and helpful to find the right protein that would work for me.

Ok my surgery date is August 27th and I'm trying a new pureed recipe I found under this site - ricotta bake! My grand daughter helped and she loved it too! I used 4 oz glass containers but once in this stage, I wouldn't use the full container - only half. I also added 1 scoop of genepro to add more protein. Anyone tried anything else that was good? Share pictures!

The BariatricPal Store carries a huge selection of Bariatric friendly Protein drinks at https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders. Here are some popular options: BariatricPal Protein ONE: MultiVitamin, Calcium, Iron, Fiber & Meal Replacement Single Serving Packet - 9 Flavor Variety Pack from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/bariatricpal-protein-one-multivitamin-calcium-iron-fiber-meal-replacement-single-serving-packet-9-flavor-variety-pack Syntrax Nectar Protein Powder Sampler Variety Bag - All 17 Flavors! from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/syntrax-nectar-protein-powder-sampler-variety-bag-all-17-flavors GENEPRO Medical Grade Unflavored 30g Protein Powder - 2nd Generation! from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/genepro-medical-grade-unflavored-30g-protein-powder-2nd-generation Bariatric Advantage HPMR High Protein Meal Replacement - Available in 8 Flavors! from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/bariatric-advantage-high-protein-meal-replacement Single-Serving Protein Powder Packets - Super Jumbo "60 Flavor" Sampler Pack from https://store.bariatricpal.com/collections/protein-powders/products/single-serving-protein-powder-packets-super-jumbo-60-flavor-sampler-pack

get unflavored protein and add it to your food. Genepro is a good one.

Hi All, So in due diligence, I've been researching protein shakes and drinks. I haven't had surgery yet, but I'm trying to start training myself to drink consistently throughout the day and to start steering away from not eating most days until 2 PM or later. While at Target this weekend, I noticed that they had the Protein 2o in mixed berry and picked some up. They're not half bad actually. They do seem to make my mouth dry when I first take a sip, but I think that's just a matter of getting used to it and I actually enjoy the overall flavor. Back when I had my lapband sx in 2007 pretty much all I had available to me were the milky, overly sweet type of protein shakes and I loathed them after being on liquids for so many weeks pre/post-surgery. So, I am quite encouraged by the juice type drinks. Which leads me to my question. Given that the protein shake market has gotten so much more expansive in the past 12 years, I'm confused by what seems to be 2 different labeled shakes. Some say Protein "meal replacement" like the Bariatricpal protein One and others like Genepro and Syntrax just say protein powder. I've tried reading the labels and I don't see much difference in the two types. Although I will say that I thought it was rather shady of Syntrax to advertise that their protein individual pack will provide 23 grams of protein, only to read the label and see that a serving size is 1/4 of a packet, so you have to multiply everything by 4 to get to 1. the amount of protein they advertise and 2. the actual calories in each pack. So that's my questions Bariatricpal world: is there a difference in meal replacement shakes and the ones just labeled protein powder Which do you use? Also, since you're here, if you've had bypass and you're greater than say 5 months out, how many of you are still drinking protein shakes as a regular part of your diet, even if just one meal, say breakfast. Thanks for your help!

It's the main ingredient in products like Metamucil. I had problems with constipation after surgery and started using the Costco sugar free version with a scoop of Genepro protein powder and that fixed me right up. I knew right away that I didn't want to experience that traffic jam again!

At least they aren't being too fraudulent, as they state on the label that it doesn't count toward your RDA of protein, so at least they are a half step above Genepro on the honesty scale. Considering the other fadish stuff they sell on that site, I would walk away quickly. Supplement Facts Serving Size: 2 Scoops/5 Tbsp (24g) Serving Per Container: about 21 Amount Per Serving Calories 90 % Daily Value* Protein 22g 0%1 Sodium 75mg 3% Hydrolyzed Collagen 24g ** * Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. ** Daily Value not established. 1 Collagen Protein does not count toward the FDA recommended Percent Daily Value for protein because it lacks one essential amino acid: tryptophan.

I am 11 days post-op. I cannot tolerate Protein substitutes. I’ve tried everything and all of it makes me sick. Even Genepro... I can smell it, taste it, it gives me horrible gas & makes me nauseous. I’ve only averaged around 30g of protein a day since surgery. Yesterday I had to get IV fluids for dehydration because the protein makes me so sick. I can drink Water just fine until I start trying to get my protein in. Staying hydrated needs to be my priority right now & the protein is affecting my ability to do that. So what are the consequences of not getting enough protein at this point? I’m starting soft foods next week & I feel like it will be easier to get my protein from food as time goes on. Other than the protein issue I’m starting to feel semi-normal again. Most of my pain has subsided & I feel like I have a lot of energy today.

Mushies get pretty boring so I made tuna with dill and Buffalo chicken (canned chicken). For veg I made sweet potato, spinach artichoke dip, beans and salsa all with added genepro. Then I portioned everything into 2 ounce containers to make sure not to overeat. Hope this helps!

In my case, I firmly believe the Omeprazole therapy, in my case it IS NOT GASTROPROTECTIVE! Told them so before surgery , did they listen? Nope, just like spitting into the wind, not a satisfying conclusion! Both my Grandfather and my late husband's Grandfather had the same motto, 2 different languages, but exactly same meaning THEM WHO DON'T LISTEN, GOT TO FEEL! The difference- they didn't listen, I was the one having to feel the pain. And , oh yes, it does hurt! Spasms and when not actively spasming , an abiding ache, internally where you cannot rub it to make it better! Soups, vary the broth , vary the tastes if you can, season it a little if your tummy tolerates. Can't find. a taste you enjoy in commercial soups, construct and blend your own. Had 3 months of TPN myself, November 2018 through February 2019. Never been able to turn my back on Protein shakes, find a taste you like, I do Strawberry Ensure High Protein, the one with only 160 calories. Go back to plain broths if necessary, found after 9 months of Monkey- doodling I am beginning to loathe chick broths, so I do need or Wal-Mart Vegetable , not that expensive. I enrich all things not protein high with Genepro powder, not necessarily the best but I got a very good deal on it, had a coupon for it and Body Fortress both. And I'm almost always around here, 9 and 1/2months, lost 120+ pounds since surgery, story still being told, not sure what next chapters are going to be like, but I hold out optimism!