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Hi all - thanks for replying! I found the culprit - my period started today! No one was more surprised than me! Me?? A perfect 28 day cycle?? It had been pretty regular at 35 days for the last couple of years, but before that it could be anywhere from 18 to 100+ days. I have no doubts that the surgery is working on my hormones and metabolism. I feel better today - cramps and achey back, but energy level good. My B12 levels were off the chart high at my 6 week follow up - my dr and I actually laughed about it. D and iron a little low, but higher than they used to be. Thanks for the heads-up about Genepro. I'm not using it as my main source and try to make sure that I get 60g a day outside of it. But I'll keeping looking for good supplements.

I am so sorry you're feeling this. I did as well. I'm not a vegetarian or vegan and ate meats. But on testing, they did find that I had deficiencies in some of my B vitamins. You might see if you can get your vitamins tested and do a chemistry panel? Also, I'm told that Genepro isn't the best protein source out there...that their actual protein counts are suspect and it may not be the right types of amino acids/proteins? Just food for thought!

Try the clear protein drinks if you can. Good one is Premier Protein Clear, have also done protein 2 0 and even Ensure has a clear ones a little less protein but passable. Also try cutting your shakes half-strength with skim milk, sure it make take longer,but we all use these tricks if necessary. Sir protein powder in your protein fluids, add it where you can. For a shor5 while I even drank skim milk with a scoo0 of Genepro in it.And you wIll make it through.

I will always recommend the Genepro brand of protein - it's flavorless, and I literally don't even notice it when I add it in with my Crystal Light. Super easy way to get in that protein!

I am almost 8 weeks post OP and everything you're dealing with, I am as well... it's been tough. I found that I like the premier caramel flavor the most and what I do is I get some decaf hazelnut coffee (I have a keurig) and I make 6 ounces of it, put a chocolate premier shake in a blender with the coffee and some ice and it's like a light milkshake...a lot lighter on the stomach for me. I personally am still having a hard time getting my water and protein but am trying my best like you. One other option someone recommended to me is the GENEPRO Protein Powder. It literally has NO taste at all which I love because literally anything can make me nauseous at this point....and that protein powder packs 30 grams of protein in one tablespoon scoop...which is so helpful. Sent from my SM-G965U using BariatricPal mobile app

Yes. I have been using Genepro to break a weight loss stall that began about 8-9 weeks post-op and continued through to 11 weeks. I'd still be in it had I not changed what I was doing. I came up with the solution described below to break my stall/slowed down weight loss as I was thinking about the days right after my surgery. My surgeon has her patients on clear liquids for 14, yes, 14 days!!!!! following surgery. No protein, no vitamins.....ONLY CLEAR LIQUIDS and medications for 14 days. I lost a pound or two a day on the regimen. Since my weight loss had drastically slowed, I was significantly behind on the amount of weight I am expected to lose by my next surgeon appointment and decided I would go back to post-surgery basics, but with protein, meds and vitamins added. I began this regimen on Thursday, March 14th, weighing 219lb. Today, I weighed in at 210 pounds. Here is what I do: I take three 16 ounce bottles of water and to them I add 1 scoop Genepro, which is flavorless, 30g protein and only 60 calories. You can drink it plain or flavor it however you,d like, just don't add calories more than 20, perhaps, with whatever you choose. I add sugar free decaffeinated ice tea powder to mine. These three bottles become my "meals" for the day, breakfast, lunch, supper, giving me 90g protein for the day and only 180 calories. In between these "meals" I drink another 16 ounce bottle of water, giving me a total 96 oz water for the day. Additionally, I take all my meds and vitamins as I am supposed to throughout the day. Once I reach 209 pounds I will be at the bare minimum of where my surgeon expects her patients to be at 3 months post-op, which puts me at the 50th percentile. I plan on continuing this regimen for the entire 14 days in order to get as near to 201 by the end on March, early April, which will put me in the 75th percentile, which is a MUCH better place to be. Anything below the 50th percentile is considered to be a weight loss surgery patient failure. This info is taken from a Duke University study conducted to discover early weight loss predictors for success or failure among weight loss surgery patients. I explain this study and provide links in the video I've posted here in my status update on Bariatric Pal. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. :-)

My old standby at work, I get a cup of hot water out of the Keurig, plop a Wyler’s bouillon cube in there, add my Genepro protein and I have a yummy chicken soup for lunch. 😆

I use Genepro, it has 30 g of protein in a pretty small scoop! I found it easier to get my protein in after surgery with this vs others with only 10g/scoop. 👍🏼

I mix in Genepro and Crystal Light with my water, and I cannot even taste the protein. I would high recommend the Genepro, it is amazing!

I am 5 days post op and my stomach hurts some times when I drink too. like it is stuck at the opening. then goes away. I'm hungry most of the time which concerns me, but the pain is managed well with Tylenol and Advil. It just takes so long to take all the pills. . . an hour to get it all in (Tylenol is liquid, but the Advil is not). I've been averaging 80+grams of Protein a day thanks to genpro ( https://smile.amazon.com/GENEPRO-Musclegen-Research-Flavorless-Certified/dp/B00K6OSDYA/ref=sr_1_5?_encoding=UTF8&hvadid=174268468981&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9033569&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=14981272652004684345&hvtargid=kwd-12063637423&keywords=genpro&qid=1552331291&s=gateway&sr=8-5&tag=googhydr-20&th=1 ) But i'm still hungry. Also using GenPro with shakes from Optavia which have 11 - 14 grams of protein and are 8 oz has really been a great solution... they taste great and the variety provides some great options.

Congratulations!!! So glad everything is going well. Now just rest and take it slow I am 5 days post op and my stomach hurts some times when I drink too. like it is stuck at the opening. then goes away. I'm hungry most of the time which concerns me, but the pain is managed well with Tylenol and Advil. It just takes so long to take all the pills. . . an hour to get it all in (Tylenol is liquid, but the Advil is not). I've been averaging 80+grams of protein a day thanks to GenPro ( https://smile.amazon.com/GENEPRO-Musclegen-Research-Flavorless-Certified/dp/B00K6OSDYA/ref=sr_1_5?_encoding=UTF8&hvadid=174268468981&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9033569&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=14981272652004684345&hvtargid=kwd-12063637423&keywords=genpro&qid=1552331291&s=gateway&sr=8-5&tag=googhydr-20&th=1 ) But i'm still hungry. Also using GenPro with shakes from Optavia which have 11 - 14 grams of protein and are 8 oz has really been a great solution... they taste great and the variety provides some great options.

Day 5 and feeling GREAT! I’m telling you, the gas pain sucks but once you get past that...woo-hoo! I’m not hungry at ALL though. So trying my best to get my water and protein in. One tip, my NUT suggested Unjury unflavored protein powder so I got a sample pack of that at first. It’s ok, but a lot of powder to mix in for just 10 grams of protein? No bueno. I found another brand at GNC. GENEPRO. It’s fantastic! I used it during my pre-op and it’s saving me during post op (since I can’t drink as much broth as I could before.) There are 30 g of protein in just one scoop AND the scoop is 3 x smaller than many others! It mixes great in a little lukewarm water, then I just add it to my broth or juice. Getting that much protein in a serving during the early post op days is wonderful!!

I put this into a lot of stuff - mix it into yoghurt, cottage cheese, fat-free re-fried beans, curries, sauces, soups. It really helps me pack more protein in as a vegetarian. The scoops are very small. https://www.amazon.com/GENEPRO-Musclegen-Research-Flavorless-Certified/dp/B00K6OSDYA

I think you’re asking a broader question but I’m going to answer in terms of what I’ve experienced in the first week post op. I should’ve had a more realistic picture of what the first week would look like post surgery. The diet they gave me advanced too quickly for me. If it weren’t for these items I would not have made it through week one as comfortably! When I couldn’t get the vitamins down I had the patches. When I couldn’t get the minimum water AND protein shakes down I had the protein water. When the only “food” I could possibly consume was broth, these K-cups were quick, easy and helped me get in a little extra protein. (And the Genepro is probably just good to have all around. You can add it to the cream soups when you’re ready for extra protein.) Most people probably knew this stuff beforehand but I learned all this the hard way. In the hospital a few things and I really appreciated bringing were my extension cord, my heated blanket, robe and a change of pajamas. I actually brought full blown make up bag with eyeshadow palettes and everything which I didn’t even touch. The only cosmetic or toiletries I used was my toothbrush and toothpaste! Comparatively I feel like I’ve had a more difficult first seven days than others but I have had zero regrets and no regrets phase. I went in after doing a lot of self education and knew it would be challenging. I’m excited for the prospect of looking and feeling better and things are improving daily! I think you will find the same is true for you.

NuMe2 you are so rigtht about varying calories to break stalls! I too was at a stall for many weeks but when I eat a little more and bring my calorie count up I seem to lose weight! For instance - yesterday my daughter brought home for pizza for dinner and even though I know it's a big "no, no" per carbs, sodium processing and such I went ahead and indulged in a slice and it upped my daily calorie count to 1120. I woke up this morning with a loss! I always make sure I get the minimum of 64 oz especially since I had a Shoulder Surgery this month on Feb 12th and am on pain pills as I got to make sure I don't bind up because well many of you know that although Milk of Magnesium does a great job of breaking the dam open withing a matter of hours it is still very messy. So I noticed that if I dip my calories up once in awhile it makes a difference. I vary between 800 to 1200 daily. I always, always make sure I get my minimum protein of 70 grams and am taking all of my vitamin and supplements daily. I use Bariatric Advantage HP meal replacement , Premier protein shakes and sometimes Genepro protein powder in yogurt to meet these needs. I worry about getting all the supplements and especially since having 2 surgeries in 3 months and worried about hair loss. I have also noticed that my skin is super super dry but and I am still trying to figure our that battle! If I don't feel like cooking and want something fast have been buying the Smartmade frozen dinners from Walmart such as turkey, and roasted vegetables as this is low carb and high protein, RealGood also makes a chicken crusted pizza that is also low carb high protein. I also like the Lean Cuisine herb roasted chicken but this one only has 16 protein where the others are higher carb. So these types of things help me out a bunch and in a pinch. I also still eat a lot of beans, LOL! (need that fiber). Some days I can eat more then others and other days I just can't put much in and it is so weird how it all works like that. Just this morning upon waking it was a little more difficult swallowing water then most. I think this surgery just put's you on a see-saw like that and after reading so many post in this forum I am comforted by the fact that it is not unusual and so I do not stress it anymore. I have yet to throw anything up but have eaten too fast, too much and had the sweats, chest pains and miserable feeling of needing to. Like many some days I question whether my stomach was really resized and then others I definitely know there is a restriction. I still fight head hunger and bad habits but have made great improvement here. I have been to a restaurant and ordered a full meal and then find that I barely make a dent in it too the point the waitress asked me if there was something wrong with my food, LOL and felt like "wow that was a waste of money - what am I doing!" I am so looking forward to the day of eating Salads and raw vegetables which for me is not until 6 months post op per doctors orders! So because of 2nd surgery and having my arm in a sling it has slowed me way down in exercising. I am doing my best to try and walk 30 minutes daily but when I have a bunch of doctor appointments in a day and everything takes me forever to do it falls by the wayside. I like most worry about loose skin and wish I could start some weight training but all of that is on hold for now. Once my energy levels get back up I need to figure out how to work strength training in. I just know that it will make all the world of difference. I am so grateful for this forum and you guys sharing your stories and struggles as this has helped me so much! Well guys that is my journey thus far from having a hiatal hernia repair and gastric sleeve surgery December 26, 2018. Shoulder surgery February 12, 2019 to repair a rotator cuff, SLAP and Labral tear.

This has a little bit of protein already in it which is why I was going this route. I have tried adding Genepro to some soups but it grosses me out for some reason...

I'm vegetarian too. The number I was told was at least 65g of protein - which still seems like a lot. This last week I have been able to get over 100g consistently by pumping up my morning shake (I continue to do a protein shake for breakfast because I am not a breakfast person, and have been doing this for years). I use Fairlife milk which has more protein instead of regular skim, a scoop of my protein powder, and add a scoop of Genepro flavourless powder as well. That shake is really filling, and has a tonne of protein. It sets me up for the rest of the day. Anything I can, I add the Genepro to - Greek yoghurt, cottage cheese, oatmeal, my bariatricpal chili and curry. The scoops are very small and it dissovles easily if you stir slowly. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K6OSDYA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1 My nutritionist also said that it gets easier the further out you get and you don't need these massive amounts of protein forever. You will be able to tweak your macros as you get to maintenance to what works for you.

I tried the Genepro and as everyone said I cannot taste it which is great. The only issue is , that I use lukewarm water in a coffee mug about halfway and stir in the Genepro with a fork and it completly dissolves. Then I mix in more water and stir in Chicken bouillon powder and microwave it to heat everything up.. After a couple minutes sitting the protein powder starts to clump up a little.. Is this normal ? Thanks

Thanks everyone, I tried the Genepro and as everyone said I cannot taste it which is great. The only issue is , that I use lukewarm water in a coffee mug about halfways and stir in the Genepro with a fork and it completly disolves. Then I mix in more water and stir in Chicken boullion powder and microwave it to heat everything up.. After a couple minutes sitting the protein powder starts to clump up a little.. Is this normal ? Thanks

genepro!

I agree w the Genepro suggestion. I have been putting it in tomato and broccoli cheese soup as well as pudding. Can’t taste it at all. When I put it in soup I put 1 scoop into a half cup of soup for 30 gm of protein. You can get it at GNC if you need it quicker than ordering online.

Sorry it took me so long to reply! I use "Genepro next generation protein". Amazon.com. expensive but so worth it. Sent from my SM-G892U using BariatricPal mobile app

I am mixing one TBLSP of Genepro (30g protein) in my yogurt, cottage cheeses, etc, to get in the needed protein. Its available on Amazon and worth it. Absolutely no taste. I can't drink the protein shakes....ugh! Genepro is my life saver!

Yeah, that's not the case. BP sells Genepro due to consumer demand, not because it is a reputable, quality product

I recently responded to another thread about protein so I'm just going to cut and paste: I highly recommend a tasteless powder by "Genepro: next generation protein powder." The scoop is much smaller and you get a full 30 grams of protein. Plus it's less calories than most: 60 calories. I even put a scoop in my Water, for real. I taste a hint of it but it is a clean, very mild taste. Add it to your broth if you're drinking that." Good luck!!! Sent from my SM-G892U using BariatricPal mobile app