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November 2022 Surgery Buddies
NP_WIP replied to Crystal Leifheit's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
Hope everyone is doing well! I finished my 1 month training program, start a 2 month one on Monday. My weight loss has been slow, I was going to say non existent but then realized I still lost almost 10 lbs this month. I knew starting weights was going to change the way I weight myself since muscle uses water to heal, but there were some weeks were I was loosing a pound. Once I upped the water, which I hit now 78-84 oz easily and my protein is on point, I started to loose again. But can't complain, really haven't had any stalls and if this can count as one, I'm grateful for it. Exercise made me hungry, like crazy hungry. There was a day where I was snacking on cookies, quest chips etc and realized I needed to stop before it became an issue, so I'm doing 3 meals and a protein shake split into 2 snacks. I'm also thinking of doing a few days of shakes only, if I see my weight not moving much this month. I want to be in onederland by 6 months. -
BARELY any weight loss in first two weeks??
BrandiBird replied to MaameWata's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
I'm in this boat, as well. I lost a good amount of weight from pre-op diet and from my first two weeks post-op, but since then the scale has barely moved for me. I am back onto solid foods now that I'm more than three weeks post-op, and I'm tracking everything I eat and even walking/moving more than pre-op. I've started some very light resistance training because I'm afraid of losing muscle instead of fat. But I was hoping to see a faster weight loss than what I'm currently seeing. I think because so many people tell you it'll happen fast, but in the moment it seems so slow. How are you since you last updated? I hope you're well. -
You dont need to get back in the game. This is the game you signed up to. Your weight loss is great. Your body is just having a moment to adjust. Continue to do the right things and you will find that the scales will begin to move again. Your metabolism had likely changed by now so the weight loss may be slower. Try changing the exercises you are doing to help.
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It's the worst. I'm not big on drinking water and if I do like to gulp or chug it to get over with it. But lately, I am trying to time myself, like I have to drink the 8oz in 1 hour and continue from there. My coach said don't drink from plastic bottles, buy tin or glass. She's "noticed" the toxicant from bottles has delayed weight loss in some of the patients. Also organic fruits only, including coffee. Yet, No Bananas or Mangos.
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Feeling frustrated and demoralized
Sleeve_Me_Alone replied to Yahoo's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
Looking at some of your other posts, it looks like you had surgery 3/20, is that correct? Regardless, as others have said, its far too early for you to have significant loss post-op and you may need to reassess your expectations. Those first few weeks immediately after surgery your body is putting all its energy into healing from major surgery. You need to be patient and consistent above all else. The right will come off in its own time. I know its frustrating - we have all struggled with the "hurry up and wait" of weight loss - but truly, this is a marathon not a sprint. Stick to your plan and give it time. -
Feeling frustrated and demoralized
mcipanda replied to Yahoo's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
If I did the math right, you went into surgery weighing 190. I’m not sure what your expectations are regarding the speed of weight loss after surgery, but it’s safe to say they might be a bit unrealistic. Your anatomy was just rearranged, your body is in shock trying to heal and all of this is happening while taking in very few calories. The hospital will pump you full of fluids that can take a days to release, plus you’re inflamed and probably haven’t had a decent bowel movement yet if it’s only been three days. Take a step back, breathe and remember that surgery isn’t a switch that turns on fat release. It’s much more complicated than that. This entire process is life altering, so take it one day at a time and read up on the posts provided by @GreenTealael. It’s gonna be okay! You WILL lose the weight because it sounds like you’re following the program. Just give your mind and body more time. 🧬 -
Complications 11 yrs after surgery
Lawman replied to Mia2515's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
I am 11 years out of Bypass surgery as well. And yes I have had many complications and struggles as well. My mind set going in was I would do exactly what my surgeon told me to the T. No if and are buts. I guess me being a retired Military Guy we tend to do those things. Well my 1st 8 months went perfect. I went from over 300lbs to 190. Feeling like a million bucks. Woke up one day with intense paid in my abdomen and off to the ER. Internal Hernia. My intestines poked thought the sac that holds them. Well 2 months later another. Im still losing weight following directions. Another 5 months had another repaired. Well in 2016 all heck breaks loose and I think here we go again. But this time it was way worse. All of our intestines ect float around in internal fat ect. Well when you lose a lot of weight you lose that as well. I was down to around 168 lbs in the best shape of my life but my intestines/colon had gotten twisted this time in a bad way. So by the grace of god the surgeon on call that night had seen this before with people that had weight loss surgery done laparoscopically. He went in and took 2 feet of my colon and was able to save them and re-attached. He basically said when a surgeon can get his hand on things and tighten them back up like they should be he see these things. He advice was to put weight on and get the internal fat back in so my intestines could float as they are supposed to. And he was right. I was so focused on hitting my goal and finishing 1st I guess I didnt understand or wasent told body physiology. I am back up to around 225 and all of my problems for the most part have gone away except post-op depression still after 11 years. I was fortunate he was on call that night and we have become friends and he had educated me so much from a surgeons point of view that corrects these things. He is a bariatric surgeon but fixes the problems associated with it as well. I hope that gives you a little incite that yes problems happen. You cant go back in time but if I could I would still have had the surgery but wouldnt have done it laparoscopically and let them cut me . But Im here and healthy and living life and try not to dwell on it. I hope this helps you even if for 5 minutes reading my story. -
Feeling frustrated and demoralized
GreenTealael replied to Yahoo's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
It’s so soon after surgery that you are surely still feeling the effects of fluid retention and inflammation. Also weight loss will be the easiest the the first 12 months post op (not the first 3 days) so don’t lose hope. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/weight-gain-after-surgery https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/main-reasons-for-weight-gain-after-surgery/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5389231/ -
Here is my story. I spent years stuck at 210 (I am 5’2) and thousands of dollars on personal trainers, nutritionists etc. watched and recorded everything I ate to no avail and of coarse the only scale movement would be I ate a cookie and gained two pounds. Meanwhile I began collecting every co morbidity - sleep apnea, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes , sever scaring on my liver. After two seperate per ate unsuccessful medically supervised diets I was advised gastric bypass was my best bet. I lot 10 lbs in the lead up (5 days a week of boot camp and strength training and keto diet). I lost another 20 lbs on the per-op liquid diet. Had surgery on March 29th. Lost 5 lbs in the first two days and have had no movement since. Walking 3 times a day at 30 minutes each. Drinking 70 oz of water and at least 90 g of protein plus all of the supplements. I know there is a three week stall but I am on a 3 day stall (at the time when weight loss is suppose to be the easiest). This was my last hope and I am starting to feel hopeless.
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DR Mayortena or Dr Pablo Fok Russell?
Sigh replied to Sigh's topic in Mexico & Self-Pay Weight Loss Surgery
I went with Mayortena vs Fok because he specialized- I like specialist that focused on one type of surgery, vs a variety of different surgeries (ie hair loss), so I think its personal based on your perspective. If my heart is having issues, I’m going to a heart specialist. Decide what you are comfortable with. -
I'm getting so frustrated, 7 months out and almost 2 months stalled
Arabesque replied to SuziDavis's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
May be have a chat with your dietician & see if they have any ideas. Stalls are your body’s response to the stress of your weight loss & adjusting to the changes. I wonder if doing short fasts, increasing/decreasing calories & changing calorie sources may be adding to the stress. 🤷🏻♀️ I’ve read that stalls are an important part of weight loss as they allow your body to reset your hunger hormones & metabolism to what you need at a lower weight. -
Stalls happen. You just have to stick to your plan & wait them out for the 1-3 weeks they usually last. It will break when your body is ready. Not sure how much you were hoping to lose but you could be in maintenance or just experiencing the extremely slow weight loss many of us face when we’re almost at our final weight. Congrats on your weight loss. 91lbs is amazing.
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Weight-Loss Journey
ohsnapitsjonny added images to a gallery album in Before and After Gastric Sleeve Photos
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New Here - 1 week post-op
Yahoo replied to ReinventingRuben's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
We had surgery on the same day!! My weight loss has been less than I hoped for the first week but getting my liquids, protein and walks in. I am not having any issues holding down liquids (and while I am not pushing it - I feel like I would not have issues handling more liquids) -
Welcome! Congratulations on your surgery date. What are you looking most forward to with your weight loss?
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I started my journey in January 2022, between all the appointments and getting approved for insurance my surgery date was August 2, 2022. The 2-week liquid diet wasn't too difficult up until day 10 ish I started to get a little over it, especially on the day of my birthday. I drank a lot of protein shakes (fair-life chocolate is still my favorite to this day) and ate a lot of applesauce, berries, sugar-free pudding, and Panera soup broth along with V8 & grilled veggie kabobs. I lost about 13 lbs on the liquid diet but aside from weight loss, the main goal is to shrink your liver. Day of Surgery I was scheduled to be there at 7 am and surgery at 9 am. I didn't go back till about 2 pm. My hospital stay wasn't bad at all. I actually was able to get around just fine with very little pain the entire stay. Getting in liquids was quite difficult but when you have nothing else to do watching the clock and drinking your liquids wasn't really that bad in the grand scheme of things. I only stayed one night and was discharged by 11 am the next day. First week home I was completely drained, and starving. Especially those first couple of days. I basically stuck to everything I had on my liquid diet aside from the berries and veggies. I got around just fine with very little help from my daughter. I was down about another 10 lbs in the first 2 weeks. 3 months out I was "only" 30lbs down from my surgery weight. I was really disappointed at the time but now looking back Averaging 10 lbs a month is pretty healthy. By that time I was eating pretty normally in the sense I wasn't as restricted. Exercising regularly. Had taken a week's trip to Disney World and had my energy back. On the downside, I got sick often. Meat of any kind never sat well with me or anything tomato based. I would end up purging often. I also had a lot of issues with constipation. I became slightly reliant on ducolax (would take every other day to avoid being bound up). I was very reliant on protein shakes, water, and v8. I remember thinking at one point if I knew it would be that bad Idk if I would have gone through with the surgery because I was so miserable (but so glad I did). 6 months out I was 45.9 lbs down from my surgery weight. I was low on iron and high on copper (pretty abnormal about the copper and they think there was a possibility that was inaccurate). I was completely drained and was blaming it on the cold and the weather, not really thinking my Iron was a possibility for how I was feeling. I didn't talk to my doctors about it sooner and I wish I would have. I was still sick often. Meat of any kind still not sitting well with me or anything tomato based. The doctors were kind of unhelpful and just kept encouraging me to keep trying, which was kind of frustrating because I felt like I wasn't being heard for the first time. My issues with constipation weren't as often and was only taking ducolax about 1 or twice a week compared to the months before. I became a lot less reliant on liquids. 8 months out I'm 55lbs down from my surgery weight. 83 lbs down from my highest. I work out 5 times a week and my eating has been dang near spot on, with a few occasional indulgences. If I feel drained I know it's because I missed a few nights in a row of my iron. I can eat pretty normal without the sick feeling but it still happens every once in a while. Constipation is super rare I feel like I hit a lot more stalls than probably most. Eating and physical activity def. go hand in hand and It can be really frustrating. Consistency is your best friend. Between logging your meals, protein & water intake & some sort of physical activity you'll get where you want. I don't think you will ever be fully prepared for what's ahead of you after surgery. I did the research for months to prepare myself and feel like it still wasn't enough. I feel so much more confident now, Clothes fit great. No worries about fitting into booths at restaurants or seats on roller coasters or seat belts on airplanes. I love to put on clothes that once couldn't fit and now are way too big on me. It helps me remember how far I've come even if the scale is disappointing. The biggest compliment I love to get these days isn't how great I look, but how happy I look. I get being nervous, we were all in the same storm as you just different boats. But rolling into that surgery room was the best decision I could have made. I feel like I got my life back.
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California Medi-cal Allameda Alliance for health
FaiAye posted a topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Hello I have been referred by my pcp for weight loss surgery. I have a consultation with the surgeoun in about 2 weeks. I wanted to know if anyone had any experience with wait times and requirements dealing with California Medi-cal specifically Alameda alliance for health. Thank you -
I'm getting so frustrated, 7 months out and almost 2 months stalled
omrhsn replied to SuziDavis's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
I can totally relate. I've been on an extended stall for almost 3 months now. The weight loss is minimal to none at all. But I read somewhere that the rate of weight loss will decrease as you get closer to target. I noticed that I've started to lose weight again after I started fasting since last week. I hope it is not just water loss. I'm targeting to come out at least 5 kg less after the end of the fasting month. It can be frustrating but our bodies have their own way to adjust. Have you noticed any changes on the sizes? My measurements have gone down despite not losing weight. -
Hiatal Hernia surgery before Gastric Bypass?
learn2cook replied to AmandaD.'s topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
My HH was large and had to wait an additional 6 months for all the meds to heal up the GERD sores and they kept checking for cancer. In the end I waited 8 months for healing before the double surgery of HH repair and RNY. If they had had a better picture, my surgeon said he would have separated it. The HH was up into my larynx. My recovery time seemed to be longer. I stayed in the liquid and all stages 3-4 weeks each due to the throat soreness.My surgery time total was 7 hours. And I accept that it’s not perfect. There’s still 1cm HH and some light GERD but I’m so grateful for being able to sing again. I stay on top of it with Omeprazole. I used the long wait to have surgery as a super weight loss time that RNY “locked” into place. That 73 initial loss isn’t coming back! -
I'm getting so frustrated, 7 months out and almost 2 months stalled
learn2cook replied to SuziDavis's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
We all go through them and yes they are frustrating! I keep trying new things, tracking, more veggies, less exercise, heavier weights. My last stall busted because I started higher iron supplements. Another stall busted because I needed more sleep. One stall busted when I went to Great Wolf lodge and had fish and went swimming. Only you can crack the code. It takes patience and weight loss is a massive head game. Just keep tracking and doing what your center says. A quarter cup of dry cheerios to snack set me back. Keep measuring and moving, you will get there. You’ve moved past the honeymoon stage and it’s hard work, but weigh loss still happens up to 2 years out! -
9 out of 12 supervised weight loss visits done sleep study done Abdominal ultrasound done H. Pylori test done nutrition class done nutrition class follow up done Now I have 3 more weigh ins and an endoscopy left to do. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that my insurance will approve this swiftly & I can get the May date I want.
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Well this weight loss journey has been never ending for me. I blamed Covid but really it’s been my lack of discipline. I’m down from 212.2 to 174. Dedicated to not giving up. Hoping to lose to 164 by next month.
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10 months post gastric not lossing
Arabesque replied to chulamex831's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
What does your surgeon & dietician say? You may have reached your new set point (the weight your body is happiest at) & as @catwoman7 said it is harder to lose & maintain at a lower weight if where you are now is your set point. Remember not everyone reaches their goal weight. Generally, eating 1000 calories should result in a loss. I’m only an inch taller than you, am not really active, & can maintain at my lower weight consuming about 1400 calories. Though we are all different & our bodies have different needs. The pouch reset isn’t a physical reset but a mental reset. If you’re already following your plan re calorie intake,food choices, & meeting protein, fluid & macro goals you are doing all the right things. Mashed potatoes & scrambled eggs are in the plan for many people from the third week. What you are then only affects you then. It doesn’t affect what is happening now. I agree with @summerseeker. Give your team a call @Sammy C & see if you can negotiate moving to al, or maybe some purées. Being in liquids only for 6+ weeks seems excessive but your surgeon may have a reason for it. -
@UnderTheCaliSun congratulations on your weightloss journey and finding a way to keep it off. I just had a Revision done of TORe and I’m just now hearing about Wegovy, Semaglutide and Mounjaro. I’m looking to get prescribed semaglutide to go along with my revision to ensure I hit my weight loss goal and help regulate my glucose and cholesterol.
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Bariatric Surgery Patients and the Benefits of One Per Day Multivitamin Capsules
Alex Brecher posted a topic in Protein, Vitamins, and Supplements
Introduction Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obesity and obesity-related health conditions, including diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension [1]. With this transformative procedure comes a new way of life that often requires significant adjustments to dietary habits. One essential aspect of post-bariatric surgery care is ensuring patients receive adequate vitamins and minerals to support their overall health. This article will discuss the importance of using a one-per-day multivitamin capsule for bariatric surgery patients, address the misconception that these patients have difficulties swallowing capsules, and review relevant medical studies. The Importance of Multivitamin Capsules for Bariatric Surgery Patients Essential nutrient absorption: Bariatric surgery can lead to reduced absorption of essential nutrients due to changes in the gastrointestinal tract [2]. A one-per-day multivitamin capsule ensures that patients receive the vitamins and minerals they need in a single, convenient dose. A study published in the journal Obesity Surgery found that multivitamin supplementation significantly improved nutrient deficiencies in post-bariatric surgery patients [3]. Compliance and ease of use: A one-per-day multivitamin capsule is easier for patients to incorporate into their daily routine compared to multiple doses. This can lead to improved compliance and better long-term health outcomes. Research conducted by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) supports the use of single daily doses to promote adherence to supplementation protocols [4]. Reduced risk of deficiencies: Post-bariatric surgery patients are at an increased risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies, particularly in iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins [5]. A one-per-day multivitamin capsule helps to prevent these deficiencies and supports overall well-being. A systematic review published in the journal Clinical Nutrition found that multivitamin supplementation was associated with a reduced risk of micronutrient deficiencies following bariatric surgery [6]. Debunking the Myth: Bariatric Surgery Patients and Capsule Swallowing There is a misconception that bariatric surgery patients have difficulties swallowing capsules. However, no medical evidence supports this belief. Capsules are designed to dissolve as soon as they get wet, making them an ideal choice for bariatric surgery patients. Rapid dissolution: Capsules dissolve quickly in the presence of moisture, ensuring that they do not cause any issues with swallowing or digestion for bariatric surgery patients. A study published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutics found that capsules typically disintegrate within a few minutes of coming into contact with moisture [7]. Easier on the stomach: Capsules tend to be gentler on the stomach compared to tablets, as they do not contain binders or fillers that can irritate the stomach lining. This is particularly beneficial for bariatric surgery patients, who may experience increased sensitivity in their gastrointestinal tract. Enhanced absorption: Some vitamins and minerals are better absorbed in a liquid or capsule form rather than a tablet, ensuring bariatric surgery patients receive the maximum benefit from their supplementation. Research published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements has shown that certain nutrients, such as vitamin D, have improved bioavailability in capsule form [8]. Conclusion For bariatric surgery patients, a one-per-day multivitamin capsule offers numerous benefits, including convenience, compliance, and reduced risk of nutrient deficiencies. Contrary to popular belief, there is no medical evidence to suggest that bariatric surgery patients have difficulties swallowing capsules. In fact, capsules dissolve quickly and are easier on the stomach, making them an ideal choice for post-bariatric surgery care. Encouraging patients to adopt a one-per-day multivitamin capsule regimen can support their long-term health and well-being after undergoing bariatric surgery. Medical studies have demonstrated the benefits of multivitamin supplementation in preventing nutrient deficiencies, promoting adherence to supplementation protocols, and enhancing the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. Bariatric surgery patients can feel confident in their choice of a one-per-day multivitamin capsule to support their journey toward improved health and quality of life. Empower Yourself: A Personal Testimony As a bariatric surgery patient and a knowledgeable expert in the field, I have personally experienced the transformative effects of incorporating a one-per-day multivitamin capsule into my daily routine. Throughout my journey, I have learned that self-care and attentiveness to my nutritional needs are vital for long-term success and well-being. The adoption of a one-per-day multivitamin capsule has provided me with the assurance that I am receiving the essential nutrients required to thrive in my post-bariatric surgery life. The Power of Community It's important to remember that we are not alone on this journey. As bariatric surgery patients, we are part of a supportive community united by a common goal: to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle. By sharing our experiences, challenges, and successes, we can inspire and empower each other to make informed choices about our nutritional health. I encourage you to connect with others who have undergone bariatric surgery, exchange stories, and discuss the benefits of incorporating a one-per-day multivitamin capsule into your daily routine. By learning from each other and sharing our knowledge, we can collectively overcome the challenges of post-surgery life and experience the unparalleled benefits of one per day multivitamin capsules. Stay Informed, Stay Healthy The world of bariatric surgery and nutrition is constantly evolving. To ensure that you are equipped with the latest information and best practices, it's crucial to stay informed and up-to-date with recent scientific studies, guidelines, and recommendations. Continually educate yourself on the benefits and best practices surrounding one-per-day multivitamin capsules and other nutritional supplements. By staying informed, you can make the best decisions for your health and well-being, ensuring that you are providing your body with the essential nutrients it needs to thrive. References: [1] Mingrone, G., Panunzi, S., De Gaetano, A., et al. (2012). Bariatric Surgery versus Conventional Medical Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine, 366(17), 1577-1585. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa1200111 [2] Mechanick, J. I., Youdim, A., Jones, D. B., et al. (2013). Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Perioperative Nutritional, Metabolic, and Nonsurgical Support of the Bariatric Surgery Patient—2013 Update: Cosponsored by American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, the Obesity Society, and American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery. Obesity, 21(S1), S1-S27. https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.20461 [3] Aills, L., Blankenship, J., Buffington, C., Furtado, M., & Parrott, J. (2008). ASMBS Allied Health Nutritional Guidelines for the Surgical Weight Loss Patient. Obesity Surgery, 18(10), 1140-1142. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11695-008-9631-1 [4] Mechanick, J. I., Youdim, A., Jones, D. B., et al. (2013). Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Perioperative Nutritional, Metabolic, and Nonsurgical Support of the Bariatric Surgery Patient —2013 Update: Cosponsored by American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, the Obesity Society, and American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery. Obesity, 21(S1), S1-S27. https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.20461 [5] Parrott, J., Frank, L., Rabena, R., Craggs-Dino, L., Isom, K. A., & Greiman, L. (2017). American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Integrated Health Nutritional Guidelines for the Surgical Weight Loss Patient 2016 Update: Micronutrients. Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases, 13(5), 727-741. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soard.2016.12.018 [6] Ernst, B., Thurnheer, M., & Schmid, S. M. (2013). Evidence for the Necessity to Systematically Assess Micronutrient Status Prior to Bariatric Surgery. Clinical Nutrition, 32(1), 66-72. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2012.07.012 [7] Podczeck, F., & Jones, B. E. (2004). The In Vitro Disintegration of Hard Gelatin Capsules Exposed to Different Conditions of Temperature and Relative Humidity. International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 280(1-2), 197-206. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpharm.2004.04.018 [8] Traub, M. L., Finnell, J. S., Bhandiwad, A., Ochoa, G., Sasson, N., & Kotsopoulos, J. (2014). Impact of Vitamin D3 and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations in a Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 11(3), 324-334. https://doi.org/10.3109/19390211.2014.921849 By continuing to learn from one another, staying informed about the latest research, and making informed decisions about our health, we can support each other in our shared goal of a healthier, happier life after bariatric surgery. The use of a one-per-day multivitamin capsule plays a critical role in this journey, providing essential nutrients, promoting adherence to supplementation protocols, and minimizing the risk of deficiencies. Embrace the power of community and knowledge as you embark on your new life and make the most of the benefits that a one-per-day multivitamin capsule can offer.