I picked one up similar to this one - it’s crotch less so you don’t have to take it fully off when you pee; it doesn’t have a hard cutoff on the thighs and it comes up high on your back for back skin spillage. Plus open on your chest so you can display cleavage “if” you want.
I am a size 2 now but still feel lumpy in some areas - this keeps it all looking smoothe.
Hi there! There's a book I'd like to recommend. "Bariatric Mindset Success" by Kristen Lloyd, MS, LPC/LMHC
It helped me (lap band conversion to Bypass 6/9/21) understand why you might have those feelings, ie left out because everyone else is having wine. And she offers a lot of fun alternatives. It's not a cookbook, just a really good read about making the most of the journey you are on.
Best of luck! https://www.amazon.com/dp/1979679886/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_GH6SDWWG3JH7JXKRHDKP
I really like premier protein clear drinks. I also add quest unflavored protein powder to everything, sauces, mashed potatoes, soup. An eighth to a fourth scoop in each thing you can will add up. However you will not hit your goal with this alone. I also used Global Health Products LiquaCel... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JG06F7C?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share and hormel healthy shots. They taste awful but the LiquaCel I added to protein 2o and was tolerable, I know you can’t tolerate that but maybe mixing it with a little water, it’s like syrup. I’d talk to your dietician about it but they were giving me the hormel in the hospital, but just the thought of drinking more of that makes me nauseous, so gross.
I'm about 5 weeks post op now, but mine was a conversion from a gastric sleeve to RNY. I can't handle milk anymore, not the shakes, not a lot of liquid creamer. I do drink Protein2O water, which is incredibly easy to get down - tastes like kool aid - no sugar, lots of protein, lots of flavors to choose from, no gritty taste, it's not thick, either. So I suggest trying this.
I had the coating, but it did finally go away after a few weeks.
Oh, something to consider - it's sorta expensive but with both of you having this, it might be more worthwhile than if it were just one. I saw this stuff on a documentary and it's called Captain Soup. I ordered it and WOW! Tasty, healthy, and the guy did his research! I believe it was "Fat Fiction" but it made me take notice of this guy and his soup. I ordered a variety and have absolutely loved them! It might make life a little easler with the eating healthy stuff while not starving.
Keep up the good work, and turn off the tv. I get SO hungry when I watch regular tv because of all the commercials. Been watching a lot of documentaries and feel good movies, they rarely talk about what burger is on special down the street...
I've been lucky. I ha e an AMAZING Obesity specialist that I started seeing for a year before I decided on surgery. She has really helped with my mindset.
Prep wasn't that bad, honestly. I did four weeks of OptiFast, and found ways to make it palatable.
My fiancé has a tattoo that reads "Courage is just deciding that there is something more important than being scared." That mindset has helped me.
I did a LOT of work on myself before having the surgery. It's a huge lifestyle change. It is not the easy way out, and those who don't make the necessary changes won't be successful (my ex MIL had WLS and gained back more than she had lost).
The surgery itself was fine. Yeah, I'm a bit sore (one of the weird things is shoulder pain from the laparoscopic surgery, that's the worst right now). But, it's getting better day by day, hour by hour.
I'm only 2 days post-op. Today was my first full day home from the hospital. I'm able to manage the pain, and am following the recommended diet.
The hardest part for me was deciding to get the surgery. All I could think about was all the amazing food I'd be missing out on. However, as I've worked on my mindset, that focus has changed. I'm a pretty good cook, so I know I'll be able to eat tasty things :)
All the stuff a surgeon's office makes you go through before surgery is for your own good. It's to prepare you for success.
I recommend this book as a good starting point: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1572248998/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_i_EAMSEBM4TQQFGZ10X9WA
Good luck
Amen!!!
Also, Protein2O water. You'll get 10-20G protein, around 1 carb, no aftertaste (tastes like koolaid!), no grit, just flavortown baby!! Icy cold is best!
You can get them on Amazon, Sams, Costco, some Walmarts and some convenience stores sell them. The first 3 deliver cases and have the best pricing. Costco has the most protein (they're all different depending on who sells them). I usually get mine from Amazon, as there's no Costco here, and they're not cheap (around $2/each normally) and mine have 15G of protein. If you freeze them until they're slushy, they're incredible! I survived on these most of last year, and am drinking a grape one right now. There's so many flavors, some have added electrolytes and others have energy added. I like the plain ones.
Congratulations!! I can feel your excitement! Hmm things I wish I knew before surgery; prepare! My belly binder was a life saver after surgery. The hospital may give you one but make sure you get one - it will help keep your muscles pulled in when you are getting up and down and walking. Pick up a water bottle with little hourly notches on it to help you remember to drink water. Try to find gas x strips for the gas pain post surgery. Arm yourself with food post surgery for your stages; my Pinterest is full of stage 1, 2 and 3 meals. Find some good protein powder; I found something called genepro which was so helpful and flavorless so you can sneak it into soups, jello, pudding. I also made a Pinterest board of “after surgery” outfits to keep myself motivated. Things I couldn’t wait to wear once I started losing weight.
I’m so happy for you!! The next month will speed by. Don’t forget to check in here. This group is very supportive.
Oh I used it when I got home ❤️ it was helpful to keep my guts in lol belly binder
I was given one from the hospital (Stanford Hospital) on my release, December 10th. It’s more of a support for your stomach muscles so you back doesn’t have to do so much work. Also heaven sent for the random cough or sneeze. I ended up purchasing one from Amazon I prefer over the hospital one. Do not over tighten! It’s a support, not a cincher. You need to allow for your insides, which are inflamed, to heal. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0101RZY9I
I have a weekly pill holder that I fill up every Sunday. Then I get that days vitamins out and set them on the counter. At the end of the week I can see if I missed any. Something like this one on Amazon. Pill Box 7 Day, Weekly Pill Organizer 3 Times A Day, Including 7 Individual Daily Pill Cases, Portable Travel Medicine Organizer for Holding Medication/Vitamin/Fish Oil/Supplements, BPA Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q6PG3QY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fab_dK-BFbVMC5XAZ
What about something like this? Small Crossbody Bag
I have a waterrower which I really like -- it folds up and is compact when not in use. I like the swishing sound and is quiet. I have the Waterrower brand.
However, there are knockoffs that are within you budget. I did a quick search on Amazon and found this one for 500 bucks. I don't know anything about it but might be worth looking at alternatives.
https://www.amazon.com/TOPIOM-Machine-Performance-Waubeech-Capacity/dp/B09Y6BJ5NF/
In addition, you could look for used gym equipment. I got a Cybex Arc Trainer (like an elliptical) that was used by University of Miami for 500 bucks... it had just over 3000 hours on it (rated for over 20000 hours!) and that thing is a terrific workout (though huge!).
You can also check out Craigslist or Facebook marketplace. Lots of people unloading their pandemic purchases.
Good luck!
Throat coat tea is my favorite, hot or cold, especially during allergy season. It comes in a few different flavors and requires no sweetening. It is even good if you start with a hot cup and sip it over a few hours, long after it has reached room temperature.
Could you be building muscle just not seeing it yet as you are still losing fat? There are scales like these that measure muscle percentage that may help you know more about what all your hard work is achieving.
I think finding a cream with high retinol content is good. Here is an inexpensive one https://www.amazon.com/Advanced-Clinicals-Anti-Wrinkle-Antioxidants-Ultimate/dp/B00MBTKYEK/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sns_sspa?crid=2NRB7ZTNXP77Q&keywords=retinol+large&qid=1666316061&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIyLjA2IiwicXNhIjoiMS45MSIsInFzcCI6IjEuNTkifQ%3D%3D...
You're definitely not alone, my doctor recommended "Stages of Transformation" which you might find helpful/comforting/cathartic. I'd also recommend talking to your surgery team about where you're at. They may have some specific recommendations for managing pain, immunity loss and emotions along with these changes. Good luck and sorry to hear it has not been a positive journey for you thus far (hoping that will change soon)
https://www.amazon.com/Weight-Loss-Surgery-Stages-Transformation/dp/1981242120
I am 3 weeks post op, and truly felt like I could have written this. I had the sleeve, so not a bypass, but 60mg of Protein and 64 oz of water a DAY seem just impossible to me- I have tried so many shakes, unflavored protein powder, protein water- and...barf.
I did just order this on amazon: unflavored liquid protein, which I am hoping is as good as the reviews, I'm also at a point where I absolutely loath bone broth- but do really like the broth from War Wonton Soup.
Hi I am 9 years post surgery. First year everything is fine and then my sugar began to crash, I struggled for a long time with managing my low sugar not my high which messed up my a1c and weight loss in general. It’s a side effect. BUT it took a while (a long while) and it stopped. Greek yogurt (full fat) I mixed it Meo for flavor and almond milk works better for me, small meals every two hours, and a good sucking candy that you know how many and how fast to bring your blood sugar back. I found these very small sucking candies on Amazon they helped me to balance.
Colombina Fruit Filled Assorted Mini Candies 2.2lbs bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QNS1DQK/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_i_ZXGCP6DFEK5N13CY1KWD?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Also Stacy’s pita chips in small quantities help me stabilize. You will find a combo that works. Trust me you don’t want to fight with the surgery I had a hard time back then
I use this every day to keep my food warm. It takes a lot longer to finish a meal so I find this warmer helps to keep my food from getting cold. Best if used with plates that are flat bottomed without ridges. COSORI Mug Warmer & Coffee Cup Warmer for Desk Coffee Gift, Beverage Heater for Home and Office Use, Auto Shut Off, Digital Temp Control, 77-194℉, silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089SGRVBJ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_B66JE5TZ9C8VM4X5KPZZ?psc=1
As always, check the sizes to make sure this would work for your pills, but I see this keychain pill storage as being a good solution for people who don’t carry purses and might not have pocket space.
Instead of a little vitamins pills, i got this small plastic pouches at amazon …EzyDosePillPacks I just fill them when I’m going out with my vitamins, or even when i travel
It’s a band you wrap around your abdominal area that provides extra support. Some doctors prescribe it. Mine didn’t but I used one for my C-section, gallbladder removal, and plan on using it for my bariatric surgery as well. NYOrtho Abdominal Binder
Patches, a great support system, and the Smoke Free app (Android & iPhone) really helped me.
The app aided me a lot throughout my quit, and while I was on the patches I absolutely refused to smoke. I had made the mistake of smoking on the patches before and ended up smoking more than I had before. I believe my last quit attempt was successful because I refused to smoke on them, and because I changed my habits early on, too, such as avoiding triggers like having coffee in the morning, and distracting myself during times I would normally smoke such as before/after a meal.
I'm 2 years smoke free at the end of this month. Feel free to message me anytime if you'd like to talk on it! It can be difficult to quit but it's so worth it considering what's ahead for us.
When I was in hospital they gave me a spray bottle of Evian to moisten my mouth while I wasn’t allowed to drink. Like this Maybe that would help a bit with hydration for you?
I've had to do videochat counseling with my therapist for the past 2 years, so I feel you. Does your doctor know about the potential for malabsorption of medication? A lot of people have to alter their psych meds after gastric bypass.
Can you get out every day and take a walk in the sunlight, at least? It really will help your depression. I play Pokemon Go so that I'll go outside every day and play. Even 10 minutes helps. And can you have one healthy meal with some leafy greens and fruits every day? Even if you follow it up with an unhealthy snack, that extra nutrition will also boost your mental health. But I know that might seem overwhelming.
You might also find this workbook helpful. I don't know if you've tried mindfulness and acceptance therapy, but it helped me. https://smile.amazon.com/Mindfulness-Acceptance-Workbook-Depression-Commitment/dp/1626258457
A flintstone complete in the morning and one at night. Maybe a separate folic acid supplement. There’s a b-12 folic acid liquid on Amazon that worked very well. My b-12 levels were always very high when I was taking it.
NOW Supplements, Ultra B-12... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002VD3ZZQ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Maybe it was something in the spray? They must add something to liquidize the B12. Have you tried the sublingual tablets (pill that dissolves under your tongue)?
Here’s what I use: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00BMTIN0W
These are my new favorite. Only downside is they are not microwavable.
https://www.amazon.com/Bariatric-Plates-Portion-Control-Pack/dp/B08RYFM3L8/ (not an affiliate link)
Bariatric Mindset Success: Live Your Best Life and Keep The Weight Off After Weight Loss Surgery https://www.amazon.com/dp/1979679886/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_WKFYFXDMDZ8FACAH689Q
This book really helped me.
My doctor only allowed tablets or chewables for the first few months. I couldn't stand either one of them. I take 2 Flintstones a day which was on the recommended list, Walmart brand B12 and iron, and these pills 3 times a day for calcium CITRATE (linked). I capitalized because bypass patients should not be taking plain calcium. It needs to be citrate as our stomachs will not absorb calcium properly.
Kirkland Signature Expect More Calcium Citrate Magnesium and Zinc, 500 Tablets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N798Y1J/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_8ZSPXZSQJHGCQCAM3GM5
I'm a week out and completely in love with this pillow. I've slept so amazingly well with it. Highly recommend.
Elvira 32oz Motivational Fitness Sports Water Bottle with Time Marker & Removable Strainer,Fast Flow,Flip Top Leakproof Durable BPA Free Non-Toxic https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08152Q2NC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_MQT1WD2V5DECJ52CERPF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 Dishwasher-safe. No straw. Tracks your water intake.
This is the one I use. It’s much cheaper than similar hydro flasks and it’s crazy good at maintains the temperature.
Amazon! I’m a sucker for prime!! This is the one that I ordered - it comes in a range of sizes and the Velcro allows you to adjust if. If you get one, I recommend not getting the ones that go all the way up to your chest because it will shift up and rub against the chest area (I learned that the hard way - it was up too high and felt like when your underwire breaks and stabs you in the boob link
The bloating doesn’t last very long. It took about a week for it to disappear for me. The incision pain however, that stayed for a few weeks.
It’s all worth it. I remember my nurse having to console me in my hospital room because I regretted my decision, and felt as if I wasn’t going to achieve my goal.
It’s normal for you to not lose any weight in the beginning. You’re still swollen and your body is in shock. There’s also an emotional hurdle for the first little bit due to your hormones being out of whack.
I don’t think I lost anything for about a month, and then one day I started losing daily. Ive been stalled for about a month now, but it’s all part of the process.
I recommend purchasing a smart scale on Amazon. Best investment ever. Renpho Smart Scale
Just FYI, I LOVE my liquid Vitamins for the first 3-6 months then I preferred to go to chewable.
I really liked: it tastes like tangerine though... so if you don't care for tangerine cream-scicle flavors don't get it!
=liquid Calcium & Mag combo
I have a whey protien powder that would probably taste good (or be easily hidden) mixed in with mashed potatoes. It just tastes like milk, and isn't sweet. I would mix it in after you heat up the potatoes though because it can curdle if it gets too hot.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E7IODXQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_SFu2FbTVV0MBP?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
IIRC I started on some really terrible tasting protein shakes, and moved over to some protein bars.
I believe this was the brand of protein bar.
Here’s a link for Amazon for the one I take it’s not amazing tasting, but it’s ok. (None of the samples I’ve tried are what I’d call “good tasting.”) It’s all in one, so you just take one chewable/dissolvable tablet four times daily. I do it with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and at bedtime. I like it because I don’t have to remember a bunch of different vitamins and I auto-subscribe, so Amazon just sends me a bottle every month on the same day.
Bariatric Choice - All-in-One Bariatric MultiVitamin - Designed for Post Bariatric Surgery - Chewable Vitamin Supplements with 375 mg Calcium Citrate - Very Berry - 120 ct https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EIQ7KVS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_M-iSDbWF7VQ05
Spanks or binders... got mine off amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010E7MR6S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I just recently got this cute one off of amazon because I kept forgetting if I had taken all my meds or if I needed to. It has a little box for each day and six compartments which you can take with you. Pill Organizer It’s like $17 dollars.
I take calcium x3 a day Multivitamin x2 a day B12 x1 Biotin x1 Vitamin D - twice a week
I had a surgery myself and I find this useful due to all the supplements I take...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0189GHEDW/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I just have to sort them once a week, and it helps to remind me when to take what, which is somewhat daunting right after surgery