Search the Community

Hi, Was just wondering if we could have a pregnant mama check-in? How far along? How are you feeling? Any concerns? Weight gain? Boy or girl? Favorite thing about being pregnant?

1 bite of anything isn't going to cause weight gain. The main thing is to be vigilant in the future and not let 1 bite lead to a 2nd, and then to a 3rd. (I can't claim to be completely perfect about this, so I'm not throwing stones, just a handful of of Nerf rocks. ) You might call me lucky/unlucky because I wasn't able to tolerate much of anything my 1st month. So I wasn't tempted and was really forced to change my eating habits. I ate only the few things Frankensleeve would put up with - Cream of Mushroom Soup and Peanut Butter. I kept testing new foods, but it was a long time before I could eat more than a tablespoon full of anything.

I was told it's not good for you as it can cause acid to build up. There's also certain schools of thought that believe the fake sugars in gum may actually cause greater weight gain than sugar by stimulating your appetite. Either way I don't chew gum.

Have you changed your workout routine? Perhaps you are building muscle? Peanuts are very calorie dense. Maybe you should save them for maintenance? I definitely haven't added them back into my diet yet. As tedious as it sounds, you really should (if you are not already) log your daily food intake. That way, when weight gain happens, you can look at your diet for the past few days and identify the problem. Good luck.

Thanks for all of the replies you guys, it just sucks to be at goal buy all these nice clothes and now you can't fit them anymore but I did it to myself and I'm doing something about it now and once I reach goal again I'm going to stay there cause I never want to feel this way again. I got a good man he saw the 25 pound weight gain and never complained he's away for six weeks when he gets back I hope to be at least 135 when he first met me wish me luck.

Thanks for all of the replies you guys, it just sucks to be at goal buy all these nice clothes and now you can't fit them anymore but I did it to myself and I'm doing something about it now and once I reach goal again I'm going to stay there cause I never want to feel this way again. I got a good man he saw the 25 pound weight gain and never complained he's away for six weeks when he gets back I hope to be at least 135 when he first met me wish me luck.

True or False: If a product says no added sugar, it’s sugar free. That statement is false. It just means the manufacturer didn’t add sugar to a product that may contain naturally occurring sugar from milk (lactose) or fruit (fructose). Foods with natural sugars also provide other nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber and anti-oxidants that are healthy for us. A revision to the Nutrition Facts Panel may include added sugars, which will be a better way to determine what foods to minimize. This change won’t be for another year or so. For bariatric patients, eating too much sugar after surgery can lead to dumping. Sugar is considered “empty calories” because all you get is calories without the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants or fiber that are good for your health. Other problems from sugar include increased triglycerides, decreased HDL (healthy) cholesterol, increased respiration rate, fatty liver, increased blood sugars, cavities and weight gain. Research is beginning to link too much added sugar with heart disease, inflammation, gout and premature wrinkles. Recent research points to people consuming too many added sugars dying from heart disease at twice the rate as for people with low sugar intake, even if the diet is otherwise healthy. Obvious sources of sugar are the sweets: cookies, cakes, candy, ice cream, desserts and sugar sweetened pop. Sugar sweetened beverages like regular pop, sports drinks and energy drinks account for about a third of the added sugars we consume. Added sugars can also creep into your diet through condiments like catsup and barbeque sauce, salad dressings, canned tomato products, coffee drinks, pastries, smoothies, crackers and ready to eat cereals. When reading the ingredients label, look for words like anything that ends in “–ose” (sucrose, fructose, maltose, dextrose, xylose etc..), syrup, juice, agave, honey, molasses, caramel, corn sweetener, high fructose corn syrup, evaporated cane guide, cane sugar, brown sugar, barley malt, and beet sugar. You now have information about how to read the label to see if what you are eating or drinking has added sugars. Next week, you’ll find out how to compare products to determine how much added sugar is in something you are eating or drinking.

True or False: If a product says no added sugar, it’s sugar free. That statement is false. It just means the manufacturer didn’t add sugar to a product that may contain naturally occurring sugar from milk (lactose) or fruit (fructose). Foods with natural sugars also provide other nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber and anti-oxidants that are healthy for us. A revision to the Nutrition Facts Panel may include added sugars, which will be a better way to determine what foods to minimize. This change won’t be for another year or so. True or False: If a product says no added sugar, it’s sugar free. That statement is false. It just means the manufacturer didn’t add sugar to a product that may contain naturally occurring sugar from milk (lactose) or fruit (fructose). Foods with natural sugars also provide other nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber and anti-oxidants that are healthy for us. A revision to the Nutrition Facts Panel may include added sugars, which will be a better way to determine what foods to minimize. This change won’t be for another year or so. For bariatric patients, eating too much sugar after surgery can lead to dumping. Sugar is considered “empty calories” because all you get is calories without the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants or fiber that are good for your health. Other problems from sugar include increased triglycerides, decreased HDL (healthy) cholesterol, increased respiration rate, fatty liver, increased blood sugars, cavities and weight gain. Research is beginning to link too much added sugar with heart disease, inflammation, gout and premature wrinkles. Recent research points to people consuming too many added sugars dying from heart disease at twice the rate as for people with low sugar intake, even if the diet is otherwise healthy. Obvious sources of sugar are the sweets: cookies, cakes, candy, ice cream, desserts and sugar sweetened pop. Sugar sweetened beverages like regular pop, sports drinks and energy drinks account for about a third of the added sugars we consume. Added sugars can also creep into your diet through condiments like catsup and barbeque sauce, salad dressings, canned tomato products, coffee drinks, pastries, smoothies, crackers and ready to eat cereals. When reading the ingredients label, look for words like anything that ends in “–ose” (sucrose, fructose, maltose, dextrose, xylose etc..), syrup, juice, agave, honey, molasses, caramel, corn sweetener, high fructose corn syrup, evaporated cane guide, cane sugar, brown sugar, barley malt, and beet sugar. You now have information about how to read the label to see if what you are eating or drinking has added sugars. Next week, you’ll find out how to compare products to determine how much added sugar is in something you are eating or drinking.

Hello! I have my final meeting with my nutritionist on January 19 and then meet with my surgeon again on January 20. Unfortunately I have recently gained about ten pounds. It happened very quickly, during the last month. Part of this was due to overeating at the Holidays and part of it is because I have been on prednisone for a pinched nerve. If I don't lose the weight, they will not go forward with the surgery. Starting today, I will do Protein shakes. Can I please have advice on how many a day, whether I should eat anything else at all, etc. Is my goal even feasible?

It is certainly possible though not fun! The Protein shakes are a good start- Make sure you get 60+ grams of protein per day. For my pre-op diet I did Protein Shakes and greek yogurt with 64 oz of Water daily. It wasn't bad and the results were impressive. I don't know if you will lose the full amount but you will make a dent at least. I would advise you to let the surgeon and nutritionist know about the prednisone as weight gain is a known side effect. Not to mention they should know what medications you are taking anyway. Good Luck.

When I was young around 40 years ago, I began to walk for the exercise and also in order to loose a little weight. Every day I added a little more distance. Finally I worked myself up to 10 miles per day. It would take me a couple hours to do it. But instead of losing weight I began to gain weight. So I stopped. (Actually my weight gain was a healthy weight gain, I was converting fat into muscle. But I didn't know that at the time.) It might be that you have set an unrealistic goal. I never set a goal for WLS (Weight Loss Surgery) and I was pleasantly surprised by the results. The problem may also lie in the composition of what you are eating. I took the approach of integrating Protein in my meals so that I could reduce the amount of protein I obtained in my supplements. I opted for homemade high protein Soups and chili. I have included some recipes in the following: http://www.breadandbutterscience.com/Surgery.pdf For me WLS was not so much about losing weight, it was more about stopping many of my medical conditions. When these conditions went into remission, I was happy. I had a discussion with my nutritionist a few months ago. We discussed "Why people who have lost weight due to WLS would sometimes gain it back?" She said the answer lies in the Snacks. Individuals who snack in-between meals can gain the weight back. So maintenance needs to bring that problem under control.

I am getting close to my goal for my 1 year anniversary and I am eating enough Protein but my biggest issues are my Water intake and consistently exercising. I am making excuses everyday and haven't been in the gym or working out in over 3 weeks. No weight gained, but no weight lost either.

@@kyleebean This is a reality for all of us. Weight gain can happen. Bad habits can come right back into our lives. When you see yourself slipping (holiday's are the worst) It's time to get back on the horse. You have been successful.... 105 pounds down freaking fantastic. Do what has worked for you. Beating yourself up is not doing you any good. Be gentle with yourself. Try some positive self talk. You are stronger than you are giving yourself credit for.

<script> //</script> This post may not be relevant to your situation depending on what you feel caused the weight gain. I can recommend the usual, mix up your exercise routine, challenge yourself more. Of course if you aren't weight training that can make a huge difference in loss. Another option is to drop your carbs and some downgrade their dairy intake, or maybe just count your calories for a couple days and make sure that you aren't overcompensating in an effort to lose and taking in fewer calories than you should or really comfortable with your eating and possibly taking in more than you think you are.. I am nowhere near your post op time line. But I can relate as during this absence from the site I threw myself off the band wagon and managed to put on 9 pounds in the last 8 weeks. Yep you read that right, 9 bleeping pounds. So for others early out or pre-op please know that this surgery is only a tool, it will not stop you from gaining weight when you make bad choices!! The stress, holidays, and the simple creep in of old habits is not uncommon a year out. Not excusing my choices by any means, I own it! So I started to attempt a back to basics program again. Only this time I threw out the 5 day pouch test for the moment, after having read a post on another forum that addressed something we all fear could happen. I still believe in the effectiveness of the 5 day pouch test, but it wasn't what I needed to address the feeling that I had stretched my sleeve during this crazy eat whatever, whenever that was sooo reminiscent of days gone by. I am not implying that this was your issue for gain, I can only tell you what I am doing now to try to drop the gain and kick start the remaining weight I still want to lose. So I am so grateful for her decision to share her story. She thought she'd stretched her sleeve and after review, sure enough she had. Her doctor put her on a back to basics diet which involved, I'm sorry for what I am about to disclose as no one is going to like it lol, 2 weeks of fluids only. Pre-op anyone? We all remember how horribly hard an all liquid pre-op is, the only thing that keeps you going is the thought of having your surgery cancelled or complications that you can avoid if you stick to plan. Post op, 2 weeks of fluids once you've started on 'real' food, pshhh who am I kidding, that's crazy talk. Well it took me 2 weeks of daily efforts to then actually succeed on day15 in having a full Fluid day. So for anyone reading this looking for a mentor that is always on task and always on the wagon, keep looking because I am not the mentor for you. Well my inspiration for this next little while, she buckled down and did it, and you know what it worked. The Xrays 2 weeks later were dramatically different. So I am now on day 6 of fluids and I can honestly say I already feel a difference in the restriction just in my fluid intake. It isn't easy and the first 3 days, well they sucked. No headache this time though, and after day 3 the hunger was substantially less than it was pre-op. I don't know that I will last 2 weeks, I will likely try a Protein based meal on day 8 and see how it feels.. and if I don't feel what I know I should, then back to fluids it is. I have dropped over 5 of those pounds in these past 6 days. Although as you likely know dropping weight that has only been on for a short period of time is definitely easier than those pounds that are longterm. I expect the loss to slow dramatically if I do continue for the 2 weeks but for me this is more about the overall condition of my sleeve and the weight loss is secondary. If I treat it better once it rebounds then hopefully that will help me to be smarter the next time the cravings start. We're all in this together, and what works for one, may not work for someone else. But most advice I find comes from a good place and as long as it seems rational then I figure it's worth a shot because the end goal is sooo worth it.

Does anyone know if Cigna will deny you for net weight gain after the supervised visits with a dietician? I see a lot of threads on the topic of Aetna and weight gain, so I was just wondering.... Thanks.

@@chelly12A Oh I keep track of my sodium for sure..I posted a look at my daily stats from my "lose it " app up above in the thread, I keep an eye on my sodium, not because I have Bp or sodium problems but because I know it will make me retain water which = weight Gain. In order to keep my sodium levels down I almost always cook my own food from fresh at home that way I know exactly what's going in my food. I do use limited amounts of salt mixed with ms dash's sodium free seasonings. I also like to use fresh herbs, and I have a tendency to eat a lot of seafood which is generally low in sodium.

Thanks everyone. I can only hope that the way things are now, is not permanent. The surgeon wants me to take gabapentin. It will cause weight gain, I just know it. What a dilemma. Sheryl, you're doing the right thing. If Kevin has feelings for his ex, plus all these physical problems, he's not your Mr. Right. It's too bad, but I know you'll stay active and meet someone new.

Hi All, I was banded in 2011 and it was a move that everybody in my family was against, I started to lose the weight and was very happy, reached my ''initial'' goal within a year and was very happy... Had a little bit of extra skin as I was too scared to work out. During this year, I was lucky enough to get my entire family living in the same city as myself, and we ALL enjoy food so much, so any gathering with parents, brother, and sister meant food, food, and more food. I was eating good portions, and had started to take my band for granted, forgetting about the rules of of not eating too fast or drinking and eating at the same time Anyways, my troubles started about 6 months ago, when I was under a tremendous amount of pressure at work, and at home as my husband had to travel and we'd be separated for a whole year... lots of stress and angry days and nights starting causing me pain the upper part of my stomach (which is normal for me even before the band)... Started getting stuck more often, but it would come and go as sometimes I would be able to eat very well, and other times it would be a hassle... didn't really do anything about it, then started to get acid reflex, and continued to ignore things.. Then I had a 1cc unfill, but the symptoms continued, and i continued to ignore them... things were getting worse, and i started to cough at night, eating became a nightmare, and I started resorting more to fluids thinking it is probably stress and will be better soon. Lately things were way worse and I felt like i had it, so I went for an endoscopy (which is covered by my insurance) and was told that probably the pouch above the band is dilated and I must see my surgeon (whom I no longer live in the same country as) Anyways, I went to the surgeon whom I was doing all the follow up with, and he jumped directly into conclusions saying I must remove the band..... I panicked and cried, so he said then you can do an xray. The report of the xray Dr. came good, saying there is no slip and the band is ok, but the surgeon said that there IS a minor slip that the dr. missed and he unfilled me completely and asked me to go on a liquid diet for a month, then if the xray showed no improvement then I would have to remove the band. I am completely shocked, and so so so so worried… I have paid for this from my own money and removing the band would cost a fortune, let alone the other factor which is weight gain… I am completely lost and feel like it is the literary the end of the world…. Any help or similar experiences or links to videos or articles would be AMAZING…. I can’t seem to find anything other than the horrible stories online. I also need some thoughts on the liquid diet, can drink fruits and veggies smoothies? Grinded veggies and meat Soup? What are the things to stay away from (band safety wise not weight gain wise)? And would I be able to eat any mushies? Or is it liquids only? Thank you so much for any help or reply that you might leave…. Appreciate it like you can’t imagine.

Question 1--people say ins goes off starting BMI to qualify.. However if you lose too much they think you can do it without surgery. Question 2...i would be careful putting off 3rd visit..dont let it go too far because you may have to start 3 months all over..and usually unless your ins specifically says you need to show weight loss i wouldnt worry..i would however worry about weight gain as many have been denied for even gaining 1lb.

I absolutely understand your feelings junkie. I was sitting pretty level all year, which was tough, my Dr said a fill could reasult in a weight gain, howeve the nutritionist convinced him to do a fill in October, I started losing again and was hopeful again. However I lost my job and the holidays hit and now I am up again. So trying to start fresh again. Im here for you all!!

sorry beni it does suck sometimes!! like i posted my meal plan yesterday and threw up my 0.4 oz prk chop i think i ate too fast ugggh there goes Protein down the toilet!! Meal Plan Monday b- Premier Protein premade shake s- 1% milk with sugar free chai l-guacamole with fage 2blsp chia seed corn tortilla chips 8 s-light fit cocunut greek yogurt 1 oz- 2x protein cream cheese 1 tblsp, smoked ham paper thin 3 slices, dill pickle spear rolled in one d-?? i m filled to the brim went to gyn to look into birth control options im almost 49y this month and already done having kids 4 total so may go for in ofc fallopian tube blockage and another procedure that burns the uterus so no more periods better than hormonal options with possible weight gain no thanks!!!!

Oh and If you have the means and ability to invest time in therapy I would highly recommend it. I don't have the time or maybe don't want to invest the time but can confirm that there is a huge mental aspect to weight gain and loss and the sleeve isn't brain surgery.

Weight gain has been my concern too. The weight I lost in the first month, I have gained back in the last two months. Good Luck Rtbrewer2, Hope you get approved.

You're gaining muscle. You're eating carbs and building up some glycogen in your liver. And you probably aren't drinking enough extra Water with all the extra exercise you're getting, to keep your body hydrated. Ergo, on all counts, you're retaining water. Here's the deal. For those of us who choose not to exercise and then exercise a lot we experience a momentary weight gain. Long-term, the extra muscles help us lose more weight. But short-term, we do gain some extra weight. Because we're all (overly) foused on the scales during the weight loss portion of our journeys, we usually freak out at this *good* weight gain that really reflects better health. Chances are you won't keep hiking this much in the coming weeks and you'll see that extra weight disappear. But wouldn't it be wonderful for your long-term health if you DID keep hiking this much? I think we should all focus more on how healthy and strong we are getting, not just on what the scales say. (Preaching to myself here, obviously.)

Morning all! :-) So I've been doing everything I'm suppose to be doing up to this point. Already drinking my 3 Protein shakes a day. Can someone tell me why in the blue hell I've gained 3 lbs?!? Lol, I wasn't able to go to the bathroom but been taking Miralax for constipation but seriously, someone encourage me. Have a great week!