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I don't know how it affects him but I was a vegetarian for 2 years and he was miserable. I ruined his life in his words. I ask him all the time and he never has an answer that makes sense. I am going to do this because I can't win no matter what I do. A simple diet throws him off.

I guess I'm going to be Debbie Downer because I do regret having this surgery. I'm a month and 1 week out and I am miserable. My experience though is not ideal so that could be the problem too. First, I've never had self-esteem issues regarding my weight, had no comorbidities, etc. I did this because after having my twins years ago, no matter what I did to lose the weight it didn't work. This surgery was to be a tool to help me lose weight and prevent me from ending up with weight related issues down the line. My PCP didn't want me to have the surgery so it took 2 years to get her to even write the referral because she said there had to be *something* that would fix this issue with my weight. I mean when I say I tried everything I went low cal, low carb, glutten-free, vegetarian, you name it. Finally she wrote the referral and thus began my (supposed to be 6 months) year of getting qualified. It took a year because of paperwork nightmares with Kaiser and the surgeons in my area being months behind due to long waiting lists. During the pre-op year I stuck to everything and followed all the rules. Lost great weight during the pre-op year. When my date of surgery came I was excited, nervous, etc. Then I hit complications during and after surgery. As a result I was out of work for a month, could not keep anything (including water) down. Became lactose intolerant (normal for many with sleeve) and now cannot eat/drink most anything. Right now at over a month out all I can keep down is mashed potatoes (about 2 tbsp), grits, shrimp, and scallops. All other foods make me either throw up or cramp badly. I am finally able to drink Water and not throw up (only with MiO). I'm absolutely miserable and what's worse, I don't miss the food, I miss having any energy. I used to walk at least a mile (most days more) every single day. Plus, I experienced hunger starting at 1 week. Yes, those who say hunger is not real after the sleeve, well, maybe not for them but I'm constantly hungry. I am tired of the few foods I can eat, tired of water (and I used to love water), and to top it all off...I've lost only 11 lbs. post-op. I miss my engery (and yes even with all the Vitamins I'm taking) and more than anything I miss being able to play with my kids and puppy. Not to mention the amount of extra work it puts on my very patient, supportive, and loving hubby is horrible. I am one of the ones that would gladly accept back those 11 lbs. in a minute.

Hi , I am scheduled for May 30 th for a revision from sleeve to possibly RNY , and I am a vegetarian . Have been for about 5 years . I do eat fish , almond milk, cheese, eggs. So I'm not Vegan . But I do not consume chicken , pork, beef etc. when is your surgery scheduled for? Where are you from?

Great post. As an FYI: Vega, Sun Warrior, Plant fusion, Raw Protein, Lifetimes Life Basics is also pretty cheap. Also see http://www.nomeatathlete.com/vegetarian-protein/. Btw, I sprinkle the powders in stuff. Doesn't have to be the pre mixed shake. I can't handle them either.

I have tried about 20 different kinds, pre mixed, powdered, power shots, etc, and have about 15 more to try. I have probably spent 60-70 dollars on samples. I've only gotten things that come in single serve or sample packs, so that limits the selection a little. I am not normally a big Health food fan, I go to a farmers market, and use a specialty butcher, but that's fresh food as opposed to health food. Anyway, Spiru-tein that I found at a health food store where I buy my fruit is really good! I figured I'd pay 1.50 each for a couple single serve packs, and they'd be mediocre at best, but the Chai latte, cappuchino and black cherry chocolate were all really good. I went back and got big containers of each of those, as well as a few different flavors in the sample size. I was amazed that a health food store would have that many Protein drinks and such. FYI- they are vegetarian and Kosher, if anyone is looking for that. My husband makes fun of me because I have a little grid setup for my taste reviews. But it is so subjective, what one person will like and what other people will like is not always the same. Just look at any of the threads on here about the Protein Drinks, people saying smething is great, then someone else says it tastes like "fruit flavored feet" which is an actual quote. Anyway, I recomend trying for your self, what others like won't neccisarily work for you. Some of the recomendations I got were HORRIBLE to me, but plenty of others like it.

I think most people I've read about on here say they waited 2 -3 months out, some can tolerate it sooner, some people on here frown upon salads since it doesn't provide enough protein etc. but there are very successful vegetarians on here who gave no problems getting their protein and other nutrients in, I would say wait until you can tolerate all the raw veggies but just to make sure ask your nutritionist, they may not give you the answer you want though, good luck

Hello everyone! So just to give details, I had surgery 5/29/18 and lost 95lbs originally post surgery. However since, I gained back 35lbs and have been depressed about it. I’ve lost the 35lbs then gained it back (and the cycle repeats). I’ve tried Keto, Vegetarian, Whole30, the works! And it seemed as if my stomach stretched out and I was back to eating almost all the way normal. This time around though, I figured I would go back to what I learned pre-op and make the lifestyle changes I made 2 years ago to lose the weight. I restarted about two weeks ago, eating my food slowly, listening to when I was actually hungry, taking my supplements, drinking my water, eating protein first, getting active each day and eating 3 meals without snacks. Two weeks later, I’m already down 6 pounds and now it seems like I’m eating the portions I was eating 2-3 months post-op! Even the dumping sensations I felt when I eat too much came back (something I TRULY didn’t miss lol) I realized that I was seriously overeating and not utilizing the tool I’ve been given. All of this to say, if you are someone like me, going through regain loss and have been a ways out from surgery, don’t overcomplicate it. Go back to basics and use your tool. It hasn’t stopped working. It hasn’t stretched out. It’s just not being utilized. And you can pick it back up again. We got this! Don’t give up.

There is Protein in nearly everything. I am vegetarian. I do supplement with my morning shake but I get most of my protein from food. I eat greek yogurt, cheese, nuts, Beans, dark green veg, fruit and whole grains. This week I am using something I called green base. It's 3 cups of raw kale, 1 cup frozen spinach, 1/8 cup almond slivers, 1/2 apple blended in the vitamix and poured into ice cube trays. I use 2 cubes per servings. It's only 3 gms of protein but loads of Fiber and Vitamins. I then added 2 ice cubes of orange juice, 1 small orange. 1/2 cup greek yogurt, 1 scoop Isopure unflavored Protein Powder. I drink half before and half after my workout. It's 36 gms of protein. lunch is Explore Asian - Organic Mung Bean Pasta. I'll probably add some sauteed veg with it. 3oz is 38gms of protein. I'll have some nuts for an afternoon snack. A salad with an egg for dinner. A lot of nutritionist tell you to stop Protein drinks because they want you to focus on eating whole foods. I told mine I was never a breakfast person and I always my a Protein Drink for breakfast. She seemed okay with it since I eat regular meals otherwise. I did go through a period where I wasn't interested in food at all. I just went through the motions to meet my protein goals. However for the most part I enjoy being creative and making nutritious things to eat. It makes it easier to continue to make this part of my lifestyle.

I can't seem to find where your MFP username is listed. I would love to add you since you've been so successful and eat vegetarian. My username is deedeemuffin. Thanks!

I see that the original post is over a year old, but I'm hoping that their are some veterans out there using MFP. I'm 20 months out. Desperately looking for ideas of what successful days look like. MFP user name is deedeemuffin. I would love to have some people in my circle. Vegetarians exceptionally welcome!

Catherine i couldnt eat much till i was 3-4 weeks out but somehow things fell into place after that.i get up at 6 a.m.and by 8,i finish 250 ml water and 125 ml protein shake,then around 8.45 i eat my breakfast..then 30- 45 minutes after i have water then for snack,i have 1oz sunflower seeds and 2 prunes or someother combo of dry fruits.im a vegetarian so ive to work extra hard for my protein.my breakfast is generallt one hard boiled egg or egg white with greek yogurt.when im done with one meal i put an alarm on my phone for my next water and snack n so on.things will fall into place for you also.its just a matter of time.and it takes a lottttttttttt of planning.its like a full time job.all the best.

I Only know that at the INT hospital you get your video of the surgery and if you have someone traveling with you they have great meals at their cafeteria. Don't know the age difference on the hospitals but florance has only vegetarian meals at their cafeteria and they have slightly bigger beds for your companion but they say their about the same as far as comfyness. Good question looking forward to seeing others answers.

Hi everyone. My op was nearly 4 weeks ago, and I've had no problems whatsoever. I've noticed that the rate of weight loss has started to stall a bit, but have been told this is normal. I'm comfortably eating softs and have just started on some more substantial vegetarian Proteins and solids. My question however, is in regards to the restriction on no liquids before, during, or after meals. Now, I'll start by saying I don't drink alcohol at all. I've also no had a single carbonated drink since my pre-op diet, and to be honest I'm not missing them. My Fluid of choice is usually an ice cold, slightly weak diet-cordial. I have noticed however, just how much I enjoyed having a cordial with my meals. Before my op, I'd neck a glass before sitting at the table and then consume another glass whilst eating. Obviously, I'm not doing either now, but I find post op that I'm getting quite a dry mouth and would love nothing more than 1/2 sips of fluid before attempting to eat. I'm aware that the risks of drinking is that it encourages the stomach to stretch - but is this still an issue with all fluids (aka. 1/2 sips of cordial/water)? Or does it apply to excess drinking/eating/drinking/eating with the aim of getting more in? Thanks for your time and replies

Most people try to keep carbs at 50 or lower. Most doctor's recommend at least 60gms of Protein. My carbs run higher because I'm vegetarian so a lot of my plant base Proteins contain carbs. My carbs run in the 50 - 70 range. I also find I lose better when my protein is at least 75gms or higher @@MoJo119 are you tracking your food? The only way I figured out what works for me was by examining my food log.

Sadly, most vegetarians I know are quite obese. It's a noble concept, but not really that healthy compared to a balanced diet. I'm staying away from anything with a face

I've never been a fan of buffets because I'm vegetarian. When we went to Vegas my friends didn't understand why I didn't want to pay $30 for some heavy buffet when i'd probably just end up eating salad. They've never been worth it for me, especially not now.

I'm feeling a bit fustrated. I have been working on consuming more Protein via shakes and supplements. My NUT told me she doesn't want me drinking my calories, I'm confused because I was under the impression I would have to be on a liquid diet pre and post op. I was doing so well, getting natural raw nutrients and protein into my diet, now she has thrown me off. I felt great, now I'm confused. I don't like eating meat (I'm not a vegetarian), nor dairy....so, the shake is the best alternative for me to obtain protein. Any suggestions? I am trying to lose weight prior to the surgery, so far no luck. :-(

If its just high Protein low cal, why not eat meat? Or are you on a liquid pre-op? If you aren't a vegetarian or a vegan, eating meat is going to keep you more satisfied. Also when you only have 800 calories to work with, you don't want to blow 300 on Breakfast. I have learned that the hard way. You could have a protein shake that is around 160 calories for breakfast, then another one at mid morning instead of spending 300 calories at breakfast. Think of your daily calories like money and you are on vacation. You have 800 a day and you need to make it last. Do you really want to have lobster and crab followed up with a visit to spa all before 10am? Space your calories out, if you eat every 2 hours, not just Jello. Head hunger won't be such an issue.

My surgeon just required high Protein, low carb for two weeks before surgery. It's been ok. I've lost about 8 pounds so far. I'm a vegetarian though, so my carbs haven't been as low as some people might be able to get them, but I've been average 54g of carbs a day (18g of which are fiber) and 95g of protein, so not too bad I think. Mostly I'm looking forward to being more physical, but also to the clothes! I'm skeptical that I'll ever be able to wear "normal" boots though, since my calves are a bit disproportionally large and very dense. In the past when I lost weight, they were slowest to change, and even at a size 12, I couldn't wear boots without laces. So, we'll see.

I'm a vegetarian. Sleeved 9 weeks ago. doing great! no issues getting protein in. Lots of beans, tofu, soy products, whey protein, Greek yogurt, tempeh, low-fat cheese, etc.

NOt a vegetarian either, but we have the same surgery date..... just thought I would say hello, and YAY for us & you too makemyownluck!!

Heres a start... you can search here for more veg threads too...I did the last 2 years vegetarian. Totally possible. The first 3 months I was lactos intolerant, but that went away. http://www.verticalsleevetalk.com/topic/69925-vegetarians-unite/

A lack of B-12 is common especially amongst woman and vegetarians without bands. Mood swings, memory lose, tiredness are some of my common symptoms that I need a "boost" of B.

Hello Everyone, My name is Teri. I am a 43 yr old mother of two. I have a 16yr old daughter and 13yr old son. I have been married 22 years and overweight all my life. My surgery date is April, 13th. Like all of you I have lost, only to gain more than I lost several times. Also, like most of you, I am afraid of failure with the band. When I tell people I am having the surgery I am usually quick to tell them it is only a tool and I can gain the weight back if I don't use it correctly. I try to be open with everybody because I feel it is easier in the long run and may help me to be more accountable in the future. I also hope by letting people know I may make a connection to someone else out there who is contemplating surgery and needs someone to talk to. I have been working with my doctors since August and have lost 63 lbs. I am happy with the weight loss so far but also frustrated with myself because the last month I have been +/- 3 lbs every time I weigh myself. I am not sticking well to my plan so I know it is my fault. I don't know if actually having the date scheduled has added to my lack of stick-to-it-ness (I just made up that word! lol) or not. I am looking forward to a liquid diet so I can start dropping again. Like Elizabethanne mentioned I am also good at sticking to a more rigid diet, but not long term. Unlike several of you I HATE to cook! I think this could be detrimental to me post-op. It is so much easier to pop a frozen anything (high in fat, additives, etc) into the oven. I am being a bad mother most days, when my kids ask what's for dinner I tell them I'm having....(usually some sort of vegetable or a salad). You can have whatever you want to make for yourself. I have a meat lover, a vegetarian, a husband and myself. Did I mention I HATE cooking? I'm not going to make 3-4 single dinners per night. We do keep things they can easily make for themselves, my husband cooks a lot of the time and I do help some, so I don't feel too bad. It's great to see that we have nurses in our group! I am not a nurse but keep thinking about going back to school for nursing or physical therapy (assistant). I did take a CNA class a few years ago but never took my state test to get certified. While I was taking the class I was offered my current job as a special ed aide (which I LOVE) and never went to take the test after passing the class with flying colors. Now that I have a daughter who will be starting college in a little over a year, I just don't see how i can go back to school financially. Sorry for my off topic rambling.

My program gave us a handbook at the first doctor's appointment. It became my bible for those first 6 weeks. I had to take into consideration when choosing a Protein drink as well as vitamins/supplements that I'm I'm vegetarian and I'm allergic to most artificial sweeteners and stevia. In my hand book was 2 page list of some of the more popular brands. unjury for example, was out. It has aspartame aka sweet n low. I would recommend trying a variety in all 2 forms: powder, liquid and premade. Once you find a few you like, buy no more than 2 weeks worth. Some people have reported their taste buds changed post-op. You don't want to get stuck with loads of something you can't tolerate. Then there were vitamins/supplements. My doctor recommends the full regimen of AM/PM Multi, Vit D3, Calcium Citrate+D and B12. The handbook had 3 full pages front & back on that! Here I also had to be on guard for ingredients that could trigger my seafood allergy & artificial dyes. Flintstones were a no go because I can't do artificial dyes/food colorings. I would also stock up on your liquids; herbal teas, milk or non dairy drink of choice and cream Soups or soups that can be pureed & thinned out if necessary, hummus and yogurt. Hope this helps. Congrats on your surgery date!