Pattiann
Personal Comments::::::: I MAKE A GREAT CANDIDATE FOR SURGERY!! And that means: Hello I am young 44 Year old Morbidly Obese-Single Female. BBA degree who does not look obese - has med conditions, genetics to cause continued health concerns and I am over 100 lbs of the ideal weight by standard. PRE-OP Tired of hearing: your pretty - if only you were thinner and stand up straight you will look thinner! Let me tell you carrying 44 DD, is not easy to keep in the air, and stand straight all the time. Back pain- oh yeah. My knees ache and my backs hurts! I have High Blood Pressure High Cholesterol and retain fluid. Looking at me you would not think I weighed 274lbs. My father’s side of the family genetics is scary. Three, of my aunts died due to morbid obesity complications –diabetes, kidney failure, heart disease. I do not want that and FEAR I am headed in the same direction. I have had tumors removed from the uterus and the back of my neck. Thank GOD only benign and fatty tumors. THAT’S it I tell you – I am fighting back. I cannot lose a pound without gaining three back. The scale keeps moving forward and I keep falling backward. Thank you Lord for gifting Dr. Caruana, and Mark McCabe, with the hands to perform a surgery, to offer me a too. With the Lords blessing and this tool: “I can do all things through you who strengthen me”. I can finally understand moderation as well without feeling punished. That said: Here is a look at my Journey! I am Tired of the extra weight, fatigue and lack of social activities being self conscious. I am sick and tired of being tired and not active. I am anxiously awaiting a disciplined transformation for better health and increased activity and decreased medications if possible. 
PRE- Surgery Appts. June 14th. I completed my Venous dopler exam reccommended by Dr. Caruana - to check my veins. I do not want to have DVT. I have not heard a thing so I think they look pretty good. Tonight - I will attend another of Dr. Caruana's suggested Support group meetings. I expect to hear others ore-op and Post Op. I anticipate the diet and excercises expectations will be reviewed and also some details on surgery. I am excited to attend. I spoke to some of the people on my team at work and they were very supportive some not so eager as I am. They are nervous. We all work in a lab so we see complications daily. Nonethelss, I know this is my decision and it is the first time it is about me... Will keep updating as new info unfolds. 
June 17th Well the support meeting was very informative. My 77 year old DAD was the hit of the support group. He had the first question. He did say he was all for it, because he knows I researched it well. He also shared we have the same birthday and he wanted to protect and support his birthday present. My mom is not all that well- but he claims he can take care of his girls. Was suprised to hear about people having flatulence after surgery. I had not been privy to that. Basically it has to do with diet. There is medication available if it is truly bothersome. Hope I will not have that problem!!!!!!!!!! The support group was quite diverse. There were POST OP's up to five years! Pre- OP's and those in the process of learning as well as a few supporters. I asked questions like what about coffee- I am coffee drinker- one gal still has her java( fat free cream/skin milk and sweetners). The Post Ops can eat most anything - they fill up faster and the quantities are fist size portions now. Most said the wanted more but were physicaly full. They also said the body rejects what it cannot tolerate so you learn to control the binges and bad food. Water cannot be gulped- nor can soda. They do say SOda is not worth a sip as it bubbles in the new stomach and causes gas and bloating- they would rather have protein an something nutritious. That is what it is about EATING For NUtrition every bite counts. I enjoyed the group and really had a lot of information to share with others including this web site! 
June 17th I GOT A DATE! Like a pair of underwear that creep up when you least expect it.... I GOT A DATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WLS scheduled for July 28th, 2005. WOW I knew I would be receiving a call. I admit I wanted to call this past week to see where the office was in the process. I held back and left it in their hands. Dr. C's office called first thing in the morning. I was told I will be receiving a packet with pre- scheduled appts to attend for pre- op tests, diet and excercise counseling,a visit to the primary for med clearance. I can sched pre- op blood work on my own. I did not catch the name of who I was talking to because I was so exciting I think all I heard was appts... appts... appts. and was thanking GOD for the welcomed news. Now I leave it in his hands to guiding me. I am so excited. I know I will have some days to heal but in the long run my health will be better off. Will keep posting as the journey continues. PS the insurance company UNIVERA called that afternoon to tell me I was approved. I am so excited.. and to think it is happening so fast... June 21, I am walking and very excited..started a little walking routine around the hospital on breaks and lunch periods.. Taking a jump start... Have not received my packet yet... JULY 2nd I GOT MY PACKET- received a phone call prior to the mail delivery from the PRE ADMISSIONS department at Sisters Hospital. They had July 14 @11am open for pre -op testing. Labs, EKG, chest X-Ray. No sooner did I hang up and the mail man delivered infor from Dr. Caruana's office. HOW IS THAT FOR SERVICE...The doctor’s office packet States surgery @ NOON on the July 28 of July. July 18 med clearance appt with my primary care doc Dr. Divan, and PRE-OP Excercise and nutrition session with the Dr., Doctors assistant, personal trainer and a nutritionist. In addition plenty of info for the hospital stay and what will be needed. Getting excited: went shopping right after and purchased some loose fitting tank tops and a pair of work out pants. I saw plenty on the racks that I would have bought however- it was nice placing them on the racks and talking myself into waiting for SMALLER sizes...NO MORE spending on outfits to hide the excessive weight. I am so ready... This surgery cannot come soon enough. I think I am losing no just out of pure nervousness. My summer clothes are looser than ever.. IF I dieted this would not happen. I am slowing down a lot on eating and trying to pay attention to when I am full. In addition to that I am chewing longer and sipping instead of gulping. Practicing for my new life after the surgery. ALL in all my family is very supportive, my coworkers are supportive yet concerned being thinner and more attractive- my personality might change. That kind of caught me off guard. I told my co workers that my personality is ME.. I assured I would not change that -- but my wardrobe change is a promise and I asked that they give me any thing under a size 18 they did not want for more size transitions.. lolo ... I never really thought about the personality as I so desire this surgery to feel healthier- I do not want my knees hurting and my back ache and neck aches that I have... I also want to be able to move around better and participate in things I do not do right now being self conscious. SUCH AS THE BEACH... I love the water- the sun the fresh air etc.. I want to be able to walk the beach and tan and have a healthy glow.. maybe not htis year but definitely next year. That said I may want to go to an amuzement park and ride a ride - I have not done that since I was 12 I think.. Many things such as walking the mall- have not been unless I have to..Afraid of being seen this heavy and self conscious. Kind of said. I keep myself well groomed but all this hides in my heart where many cannot see. That may change with weight loss. On another note I am concerned about my anti depressant meds not being fully absorbed. I need them and have become dependant on them. This weight has caused depression. I have been okay for about 5 years and do not want to fall back in that darkness. I am hoping I can mentally fight the blahs.. Tomorrow is the 4th and I am 24 days to the MAIN EVENT.. JULY 12 OUCH Well another good reason for me to have this surgery. My boobs are way to big. This past weekend - I was in the sun. Here is good one to make me worry. I got sunburned on my bra line UNDER my shirt. Yep cannot believe it happened. I have never fried like I did this past weekend in BUFFALO.... We think my eyeglasses that have mirror clip on to make them sunglasses made a reflection and caused heat under the shirt. 2nd degree burns on my breast... OMG- I have pre admission testing to do on Thursday and Friday.. Bad enough I had to go to ER to get cream and antibiotics because the blister broke and got red and swollen.. But I have to explain at Pre- admission testing and then again when I go for FINAL clearance from MD... Say a prayer I heal fast.... I really do not want a delay... Until next post have a great day. July 14th PRE ADMISSION TESTING OVER and getting closer... Not bad- gave history, had blood draw for CBC with DIFF, PT, PTT, Urine MICRO Type and Screen for blood work, EKG and CHEST X-RAY. Took 3 hours though. I could offer some process improvement in that area to help speed things up but heck I was not there as an ADministrator today, only the patient. I was told what to do the night before and what time and where to arrive. EVERYONE WAS PLEASANT AND SUPPORTIVE. XRAY gal was outstanding and friendly very supportive. Given instruction for PRIMARY to fax Medical Clearance. That visit is on Monday July 18th. COUNTING DOWN 14 DAYS..... YAHOO Tomorrow I shop for Nutritional supplements ( protein powders) and vitamins as well as stock up on liquids, broths, JULY 18- 10 DAYS AND COUNTING DOWN :))))) I was cleared by my primary today. We reveiwed the testing Dr. C arranged she also did a physical. I am on my way... I picked up Centrum Licquid Vitamins to start taking this week before surgery to see how I do. Somehow the chewables just seemed to be too much trouble in the beginning. My opinion is the licquid may absorb better right after surgery. I do not want to do anything to the new pouch till it heals...so I decided to hold off on the chewables for a bit. I also started taking IRON this morning- my period is due and I do not want to be run down before I start. Tomorrow is the lenghty session with Dr. C and the nutritionist 3.00 hours or longer I am told. I will post tomorrow... July 20 Okay Update on Nutrition and Excercise Class: about 7 of us attended. One gal is having surgery the same day as me. We had the physician assistant Mark ( hottie) speak to us on what to expect. Pain meds and asking for more to releive pain as needed. He also encouraged phone calls as he and the doc are only a pager away. He explained the waiting area and what to expect. He explained the drain and time in hospital and discharge. He was nice- My only concern and questions were related to whether or not they use glue with the titanium staples inside. The reply was NO. My second question was with regard to medications and capsules lodging. He suggested I ask my doctor for licquid meds. Have to do that tomorrow. IF not may go without a few days. Also concerned about absorption of meds in the beginning due to malabsorption. I will have to wait and see how that goes. I sched appoints however to check on antidepressant withdrawl. They did not seem so concerned about that. We then were introduced to the gym area of the office. Paul instructed us on Pilates excercises we can do on the ball to help with stretching. In addition some excercises for balance= never realized that heavy people were off balance. We also did some excercises with bands and resistance. I enjoyed the excercises and really felt great after. What an air of confidence I got just doing that little bit. Then we met with a nutritionist. GUESE what the centrum I bought will have to be doubled or tripled in quantity during the first few weeks. They made suggestions on the items they stock at office ( cheaper than Walmart prices). I will purchase what I will need next week before the big GRAND OPENING...lolo.. Learned about the desired number of grams of protein I will need and the importance of fluids..... They do say it will be a challenge to get enough in the first few weeks... Tried some protein in licquid and was too sweet for my liking... I will try to stick with decaf tea and crushed ice w/protein. I only sweets occassionally now. My challenge will be getting away from grains and pasta. However, there is veg pasta available and I can make my own with ATKINS protein powder... I am going to shop for plain powder to add to meals I make in the future.. oh well nuff for now... I will continue as information unfolds... I feel pretty good the burn I had from a couple weeks is healing well/ JULY 27th WED. 2005 DAY BEFORE THE MAIN EVENT!!!! Well worked a half a day... Picked up additional Protein powder at GNC... ALL READY- took my last big bowl of soup for dinner. drinking iced tea (sugar free) now as usual. I feel ok ( milk of Magnesia is working quickly. Other than that will pack my bags and hopefully post in a few days of the GREAT progress. Will update then. July 28th MY NEW BIRTHDAY- THE BIG DAY – THE GRAND OPENING- GOODBYE FAT FOREVER ! Arrived at Sisters Hospital at 9:00 am. Went right to Pre- admissions waiting room My MOM & DAD, SISTER and BROTHER IN LAW were all there with me. I was called!!!!!!!!!!!! PANIC SET>>>> then the gown was given to change… IT WAS BIG ON ME! I immediately felt better and was ready to proceed. I was asked the same questions by several different people. Placed in a lounge chair- had BP taken and O2 level taken. Sister Kathleen came in and offered support and prayer with me and my DAD holding hands. Then I kissed everyone and walked to the cart hopped on and off I went to the Holding tank… Met the Anesthesiologist, Mark came and said HI, Had a great nurse. Needed a breathing treatment prior and a friend of mine from the hospital offered that. Then the nicest young man came and gave me a mild sedative to relax me. OFF I went – Last I remember was moving from the cart to a very small table- saw the BIG lights above felt someone place my arms on the stands. I then was handed a mask and remember breathing in to go out faster. Next I woke up in Recovery- saw the lights were on. A priest standing at foot of my bed.. OMG I thought – this is it. Until Father said hey you did great… GEES I thought it was the Last rites… HE just happened to be in the neighborhood saw my name and came to offer a recovery prayer….. I then fell back asleep- woke up again and was giving the nurses instruction on to work the computer system to find a patient… This is what I do in my job.. The nurse was wonderful and Got a kick out of that. Then another friend DR. A came by and wiggled my toes to say hello- I asked him to please tell my sister I was okay.. Previous surgeries I did not DO WELL in recovery. This time was different. I then checked and felt bandages and the JP drain… The nurse asked about pain- I was starting to feel it.. It felt like I was TIGHT and BURNING just below my breastbone. I also was having a hard time taking deep breaths – it hurt. I kept telling my self it is temporary.. The nurse gave me a shot and it took the edge off. I also clicked the PCA for a shot of morphine to numb the pain. Hey why have it – if you need it use it. SO I DID… After 2 hours I was wheeled to my room – got off cart went to the bathroom and I wanted to walk the halls- so I DID. I was awake- could not sleep and plenty of visitors all day and night.. That night was tough as I had to keep getting up –unplug my machinery to go pee and then plugged it back in… THAT HURT A LOT --- Getting in and out of BED HURT A LOT.. I blew out when bending and that helped a lot/. Surgery was fine- everyone said I looked great and was doing well. a little concern blood pressure was low ( I am always high bp). Then white cells went up a bit and then came down.. I walked the hall right after I used the restroom off the recovery room cart.. Had visitors.. All though not sure I was completely with it. For having surgery most said I looked well... POST OP – I AM LOSER AND PROUD OF IT!!!!!!!!!!!! July 29 FRIDAY DAY 1 POST OP A friend Sandy came to visit- she had RNY two years ago- became pregnant and had her beautiful son with her. She surprised me with her son - flowers an photo album- was so thoughtful. Took my mind off the pain. All in all the pain was managed. Later mom and Dad Sis and brother in law, co workers and my friend John came to visit… July 30th 2 days POST OP (at my sisters for a couple days to recoup no stairs) It is over- surgery went well( thats what they said). Sisters hospital staff was wonderful attentive and very nice. One of my nurses had the surgery herself and she was plenty supportive. I was up and walking first day- of course I was doped up. Second day a little rough getting comfortable but had plenty of pain med to relax and sleep a bit. Staying at my sisters for a day or so till back on feet alone.. Other not feeling hungry- I am good. Drinking water- protein drinks- broth- jello- boost...decaf tea.. Feel filled up - sipping from a shot glass. Oh well going to walk around a bit. Feel weird not knowing what to do- not tired enough to sleep yet...WIll keep all posted. My niece and sister were great assisting me getting up and down and helping me with fluids. Well my niece AUNT SAT with me… My family had a family to attend and I was well enough. She was helpful and kind. Her friend came over to visit and surprised me with a cute get well card. Addressed it to the Beautiful sexy woman recovering…. What a hoot from the 21 years old. We watched amazing plastic surgery transformations on patient who had WLS. Great night and relaxing. July 31- home sweet home Well good to get home- my sisters was great everything was close- bathroom- patio= living room. I spent most of night roaming and walking- just an uncomfortable time with the pain. The pain meds took edge off however- I could not sleep more than 20 minutes. I am the type the med just work in reverse- so I was full of energy and could not sleep/ Walked to the corner today with my Dad - helped with the back pain as I tried to straighten up the pain in the incision hurt. Home: recliner was comfy- just not tired. If I could sleep a good 8 hours I would feel terrific. No problems with liquids.. enjoying refreshing sugar free decaf ice tea. Other than back pain form being hunched over from the incision- I feel terrific.. too the point of wondering if I need to have something to make me sleep= I cannot sleep more than 20mins... wide awake and raring to go... get tired easily but have been up with only a 20 min nap since 5:30 am....I could not do that on a normal day!! Aug 5th 05( 8 days post OP) Wow it has been that long since I updated 5 days.... What a difference a few days make. I am up to walking 30 mins a day. day to start the pureed foods. had 4 days of clear liquids, 4 days of full liquids. ------------------- 10am Breakfast: 1 medium scrambled egg for breakfast two slices of rinsed canned pears pureed in food processor. It took me a 1/2 hour to eat... I place the fork down between bites... (The jello and pudding and yogurt were far to sweet for me to continue on). I waited a 1/2 hour and then had liquid decaf coffee and sweetner NO nauscious feeling just a tad bloated feeling and full and fully satisfied... 10am Took two of my meds in whole for first time my blood pressure pill 1/2 tablet and EffexorRX capsule. between meals: I sipped iced water...and iced tea sugar free by fit&live. -------- 2pm Lunch ::: I had 2 ozs pureed chicken and carrots onion and celeryfrom the broth made a week ago ( froze it to use). Took my vitamins. It was deliscous..I added broth to the food processor so it would be moister and easier to break down. Monday Aug 8 lost 25 lbs already foBelow is a posting I found on an AOL board, I thought I would put it here so I could have it forever! KEYS TO SUCCESS found on the website: The first year after gastric bypass is usually very rewarding, but this time can also be confusing, frustrating and frightening. The function of the stomach pouch "tool" changes almost continuously over the first six months, and continues to change periodically over the year or so. Just when the patient feels they have begun to understand the stomach pouch/tool and how to use it, things change all over again. There is an especially frightening change that takes place around 6-9 months after the surgery. The stomach pouch softens and expands slightly so that a patient regains a regular appetite and can "suddenly" tolerate a significantly larger amount of food. Patients frequently worry that something has pulled apart or broken on the inside, though this is rarely the case. This increased interest in food and increased capacity for food is a very natural and appropriate part of the recovery process after gastric bypass surgery. The reason it frightens patients so much is that they had previously felt they had control of their weight for the first time in their lives, and the renewed appetite threatens that they are losing control once again. This page is about how to gain control of your weight using the stomach pouch "tool" and to keep control of the weight for life. The first thing to realize is that for the first six months or so after gastric bypass you did NOT have control of your weight. The pounds were going to come off almost no matter what you did. The stomach pouch could not handle enough calories to maintain weight for the first few months - we call this the "honeymoon" period after gastric bypass. The return of appetite and the increase in food capacity signal an end to the honeymoon period and a transition to the rest of life.Your surgeon has created a stomach pouch that will be your tool to use to control your weight for life. We describe the stomach pouch as a tool so that patients understand the necessity that you learn how to use it, and stick with the "rules of the tool" over time. Patients who are aiming for the best long term success begin using these concepts and rules immediately after the gastric bypass. The time to really choose your new habits is during the early recovery after surgery - this is when your motivation is highest, and the rest of your life has been thrown out of kilter by the surgery anyway. Use this early recovery period to choose your new exercise and diet habits. And even though patients lose weight "no matter what" for the first few months, use of the concepts outlined below will also maximize the weight loss during the honeymoon period - take advantage of this time so that when appetite and capacity return there is not so much further to go in achieving a weight goal. The "Rules of the Tool" OK, here are the magic "rules of the tool" (are you ready?): Diet and Exercise. Seriously. The good news is that diet and exercise, supported by your pouch/tool, can help you achieve your goal weight with excellent energy and without uncomfortable hunger. The specific guidelines are below. Exercise keys Regular exercise is at least as important to success as following the diet recommendations outlined below. In this context, regular exercise means some kind of vigorous aerobic activity, at least 45 minutes in duration, at least 5 days per week. Patients who achieve this goal can reliably expect to have improved energy and improved weight loss. Hibernation mode and Hunting mode It appears easiest to understand these benefits by thinking back to the evolution of our ancestors. Back in "cave man days" starvation was a constant threat, and our bodies were evolved to store any extra calories in preparation for the lean times. During lean times, the body is programmed to do everything possible to hold onto the calorie stores. So the first response of the body when faced with starvation (during a drought for our ancestors, or after gastric bypass surgery for us) is to conserve all possible energy by turning down the "metabolic thermostat." This means that fewer calories are burned and the person feels like sleeping and being away from activity - they are easily fatigued. Some call this the "hibernation mode," and it is as if the long winter has come and the best adaptation is to go way back into the cave and wait until the weather (and the hunting) improve. (Note that the hibernation response can also lead to depression and difficulty interacting with others.)The role of exercise in this situation can be thought of as "fooling" the body into a different mode called "hunting mode." If the body is treated to regular vigorous physical activity during starvation, its interpretation may be that the person is foraging or hunting. The body (from an evolutionary standpoint) would be in favor of hunting because it could lead to more calorie intake, so it provides more energy to facilitate the acquisition of food - it turns up the "metabolic thermostat". This upregulation means that more calories are burned throughout the 24 hour period (besides the extra calories burned during the exercise) and the person has a significantly increased feeling of energy. Note that this discussion about hibernation mode and hunting mode is written as a way of understanding the observed effects of exercise after gastric bypass - these are not scientifically established physiologic events. The best time to begin your exercise program is before the gastric bypass. Again we're serious. Success in gastric bypass is all about choosing the right habits, with the support of the surgery to improve your success. If you exercise and diet before the surgery, you will have a strong impact on reducing your surgical risk. You will also benefit from having your plan in place, so you don't have to figure it out during the confused recovery phase after surgery. If exercise is not begun before surgery, then it should be started as soon as possible after surgery. Discuss details with your surgeon, but generally we advise patients to maximize their physical activity from the outset. This starts with walking on the same day as surgery, and should progress to more vigorous activity as the months go by. People who put off regular exercise until they feel "all recovered" or who try to start exercising when they realize they are not on course to reach their goal weight generally do not achieve or keep the new habit. Patients who work hard on exercise early after the surgery find it very rewarding. As the weight falls off, the capacity for exercise improves dramatically, with significant improvements on a week-by-week basis. Two objections to the exercise program that we frequently hear are that the patient is too heavy, or too fatigued. The first of these is unfortunately valid in many of our patients who are extremely heavy - people with a BMI of 70 or more frequently cannot engage in routine exercise. The good news is that people with extreme weights burn a large number of calories by simply walking. The amount of physical work done (which translates into calories burned) comes from how much mass is moved and how far it goes. The message here is that the benefits of exercise can be realized in many ways - just work as hard as you can and do it frequently.Fatigue is the second objection. Patients sometimes tell us that they can't imagine walking to the door and back, especially in the first few months after surgery. Our answer is to do your best to exercise anyway. This complaint is likely to be a manifestation of hibernation syndrome, which can be shaken off by exercise. Diet Keys The goals of the long term gastric bypass diet are: consume minimal calories (promote weight loss) consume adequate nutrition (achieve excellent long term health) achieve the two goals above without undue hunger or cravings These goals can all be achieved by using the pouch/tool with the right kinds of food, at the right intervals, and with appropriate management of fluids. The first thing to understand is that when the pouch is filled with food it sends signals to the brain that say that hunger is satisfied - no additional food is needed. This feeling is called "satiety." Any time a mature pouch is stretched by stuff inside it, the pouch will send a satiety signal to the brain, and (here's the cool part) the satiety signal will continue as long as the stuff is still in the pouch! Therefore, keeping in mind the goals above, a patient should do the following: Eat no more than three meals per day, with NO nibbling between meals. This will limit the volume of food and naturally limit the number of calories. One of these meals should definitely include breakfast - it has been shown that absence of nutrient intake causes the appetite center to "gear up" or become more sensitive, resulting in greater overall calorie intake through the day. This may work by means of an "ileal satiety feedback receptor" which (when exposed to nutrients several hours after they are taken in) may help suppress appetite. Use solid protein (chicken, fish, etc) as the basis for each meal. It is OK to use some vegetables for variety. The solid protein will meet your nutritional needs, and it is the best food to "hang around" in the pouch to give a longer feeling of satiety. Many patients learn early on that they cannot hold nearly as much chicken as they can mashed potatoes - this is a GOOD effect. The effect exists because solid proteins do not pass out of the pouch too easily, resulting in less volume consumed. Simple carbohydrates (potatoes, pasta, rice, bread) should also be minimized because of their effect on blood sugar. Simple carbohydrates are close relatives of sugar, so that the calories in these foods are rather easily absorbed and they tend to "rush" into the system and drive the blood sugar up quickly. Because the amount of carbohydrate consumed was not very large the blood sugar soon begins to fall, but by this time the pancreas is pumping out large amounts of insulin (a hormone which pushes blood sugar down) and this combination causes the blood sugar to drop too low. At this point the patient is experiencing hypoglycemia, and the deep urge to consume food - if they consume a simple carbohydrate (such as juice, or a bit of potato) they will be back on the blood sugar roller coaster. A cycle of blood sugar highs and lows such as this leads to consumption of way too many calories, and the calories have no nutritional benefit. On the other hand, proteins take a while to digest, and so they are absorbed slowly. This provides a longer term steadier energy source for your body, avoiding the high/crash cycle. Don't drink liquids with meals, and don't drink for at least two hours after your meal. Liquids taken after a meal will wash the food out of the pouch, releasing the tension on the walls of the pouch, and losing the feeling of satiety. In other words, consumption of liquids (with a mature pouch/tool) may be followed by a feeling of emptiness or hunger. Note that soup is a particularly poor food choice, because it is just like drinking with your meal. The liquefied food will pass quickly through the pouch, which allows more calories to be consumed and leaves the pouch empty. Note also that this part of the plan is not appropriate to begin practicing in the first three months or so after gastric bypass - in the early period after surgery it is enough of a struggle to get in adequate liquid (and hunger is not a huge challenge) that it is appropriate to begin drinking liquids about 30 minutes after you eat. Pre-load with water. Just as you can avoid severe hunger with proper use of the pouch/tool, it is also manageable to avoid thirst and remain adequately hydrated. Beginning about 2 hours after a given meal, you should begin to drink (zero calorie) liquids aggressively. This brisk liquid consumption should finish with a "water load" about 15 minutes before you are to eat again. "Water load" means that you quickly drink as much liquid as you can hold, intentionally stretching your pouch. This maneuver serves to top off your hydration and to send satiety signals to your brain before you eat - this should moderate the pace and amount of your eating. Some allowance in this system must be made for the time of day. It is a good idea to get fluid in before breakfast, including the water load. It is also OK to wait longer after dinner (three or four hours) before drinking fluids. It's a good idea to re-read this set of instructions each month until you've really "got it." It takes a lot of effort, determination, and practice to use your pouch/tool in the best way - the good news is that the results are worth it!und this on the web thought it would help between: water water water decaf coffee. two calcium tablets...chewable tums... -------- 8pm dinner::: 1oz of fish fillet dab of ketchup and lemon juice.. 1 tablspoon of slirpy mashed potatoes...yumm very full after 1/2 hour had water and a cup of hot decaf tea before bed with a splash of milk and 1/4 packet of equal... ---------------------------------------------------------------- Best day so far... not sure I got enough protein in... but I was afraid to have anything like a protein shake between because I had a full filling... MAy take a while to add two protein suppliments- might be better if I can add them in a small bar form than the drinlk Tomorrow thought I would add protein powder to my food and see if it makes a difference... energetic for the most part... awake at 10am and 12 noon 30 minute walk after lunch about 3:30 I took a 2.5 hour napp. Went out with family to kareoke night and had a ball....DId not sing though my dad the Senior Idol enjoyed being the performer and sang: I get a kick out of you. Will keep u posted on diet/nutrition progress... TUESDAY AUGUST 9 FIRST POST OP APPT Went for my first post-op appt. 274lbs/ 251lbs I am down 23 lbs in 12 days. My BMI was 44 (morbidly obese) now 41 ( still morbidly obese). Pressure was perfect for the first time in 8 years it was 118/78. prior readings were 190- 110.... I already was able to cut the pressure pills in half. Two weeks ago the blood pressure meds,water pills were awful feeling dizzy and oozy and shakey from the meds and the pressure would not come down. I had tried at least 4 other diets prior and the DAMN scale would not move except when I doubled the water pills.. then felt worse. DOC thinks by the time I hit 200 I may be able to go off the meds.. YAHOOOO that is what I wanted.. I was a walking stroke per my pcp! I have not seen the scale move in 10 years so I am elated. I have less side effects now from 1/2 strength of the pressure pills and feel so much better. Have not taken a water pill yet..they are out for good... My kidneys are so gratefull. Everyone seems to ask what can you eat: Everything depends how well each person tolerates the following foods. Always check with DOc or nutritionist first. I have been very fortunate. I cannot eat a whole serving for one. But I get 2/3rds through most. I stopp when I am full. If I go one tablespoon over I get an uncomfortable feeling under my breastbone. (My dog gets left overs.) I have to take a half hour and chew bites into mush to avoid discomfort going down. This is what I have had so far. ___MENU ITEMS____________________________________ Breakfast Ex: - egg beaters sour cream and chive scrambled. - scrambled egg with a little cheese. - poached egg on 1/2 slice of whole wheat multi grain toast - farina- with milk and cinnamon dab of splenda or a dab of fat free maple syrup. - protein shake (protein powder, low fat yogurt, (choice of fruit) blended with Lactaid then I add ice cubes and makes it cold. - 3/4 of a slice of whole wheat toast with light peanut butter.____________________________________________________________________ Lunch/dinner ex: - cottage cheese with light french dressing - cottage cheese with cantaloupe/watermelon pieces - tuna or egg salad with light mayo& 6 wheat thins - slice of ham & cheese rolled up - boneless( unbreaded) buffalo wings - light bleu cheese with a dash of hot sauce... - chilli - made from ground turkey or hamburg chilli - cheeseburger without bun light ketschup/ mustard pickles. - cajun chicken breast with cheddar. - steak small pieces- small pieces of cheese- black olives- kidney beans with light Italian dressing ( cannot have lettuce for 4 weeks). - Quesidillas chicken with cheese a little salsa.... - small chicken chunks with almonds and green beans. Dessert // snacks: protein bars protein shakes Fat free Frozen yogurt Popsicles Frozen Banana dipped in sugar free pudding... YUMMMMMM My favorite: Cheesecake- low fat graham cracker- Philadelphia fat free raspberry or strawberry flavored cream cheese. AUG 15 Monday Well it is almost 3 weeks since surgery- I feel well, a little bout with constipation and felt bloated and soar. I pretty much tolerated everything I have had so far. Trying to stay away from bread and pasta ( Italian Household) difficult. I did have whole wheat toast 1/2 slices 3 times.. Had a little fettucini in a Healthy choice meal ( 1/3 of small lunch meal). Had 2 little tortolini's vegetable with cheese/ I guese it is not terrible- considering the amounts. I am walking daily 20- 30 minutes. Cleaning closets and arranging clothes by size. Most of my slacks fit loosely- and look better. However, I am getting itchy for more results. Okay, so I am only almost 3 weeks out.. I am almost a full size down lost about 25lbs have not checked scale - cause it is not Tuesday( my designated weigh in day). I cannot wait for the next size drop... This week hope to start excercising at Synergy- still a little soar but I can walk - maybe do treadmill and bike a little. I have been stretching and can feel my body is not as solid. Hope that means the fat is breaking down and ready to sweat right off me. Until next post CHEERS>. working hard at getting 64 ounces of water in..and 60 grams of protein... hard but I am finding ways through healthy food choices,protein shakes and bars.. AUG 16th = - 4lbs Total loss 27lbs = 247.00 Today was probably the worse day for me. I was up all night till 6am. Just restless. Excercised (stretching all night) while watching TV. I just could not get drowsy.... Finally went to bed. Slept till 11:30. Felt sluggish- had only a 1/4 cup of yogurt. Drank 16 ounces of iced tea... Then cooked dinner for my parents- chicken soup, baked chicken tenderloins( breaded). Instant Smashed potatoes ( used water) with low fat cheese. Spinach.. Watermelon and cantaloupe for desert..... I ate two bites of plain chicken from soup, 2 fork fulls of potatoes, 2 bites of spinache and soup brother with a morsel of carrot. Got up from table and worked on excercise ball with bands for 1/2 hours. I thought I was hungry still.. SO I opted for a little cottage cheese. There was a piece of chicken the size of my pinkie finger nail.. I ate it....swallowed and took one smal bite of cottage cheese and was DONE> I had excruciating chest pain the chicke on cheese curd got stuck somewhere!!!!!!!!! I ended up vomitting in the kitchen sink...4mouthfulls of foamy spit and one little curd... a few minutes later another curd. NEEDLESS to SAY I LEARNED A HARD LESSON.. NO SNEAKING FOOD even a small bite. I MUST CONCENTRATE AND SIT AND CHEW RIGOROUSLY NO MATTER WHAT!!!!!!!!!! I felt better but did not know what hit me. WELL A FIRST FOR ME and hopefully the last. UGHHHHHHHH Now I am sipping iced tea- changing to decaf hot tea and going to bed at a decent hour this evening. Tomorrow I will walk! Thanks MOM AND DAD for not getting too upset. All though the look on their faces...they were scared. My dad said I was starting to snack.. He was right - all though the snacking was a few curds of cheese IT IS BAD A BAD HABIT TO BREAK NOW.... so until next post CHEW CHEW CHEW and SIP SIP SIP!! AUGUST 21 - 30lbs already Having a difficult time these last few days. I AM NOT HUNGRY. I almost have to make myself eat. Trying to drink much and eating lots of moist chicken and deli meat slices. Today was the hardest- I ate a 1/2 protein bar and that is all I could handle was full. I had a lot of water throughout the day. A little cheese and tonight the chicken from a Healthy Choice Fettucini and chicken lunch. Ate little pasta tried to eat all the little moist chicken as I could. I know I have to eat to stay healthy- but it is hard- no appetite! Guese this was one of those WATER THE POUCH DAYS. TOMORROW WILL ADD PROTEIN POWDER TO DRINKS TO AT LEAST GET THAT IN... until next post---I am working hard at walking and stretching. Appt with my primary on Tues.. Cannot wait to see her scale.. Sept 11, 2005 Oh my goodness such a long time since I posted. I am caught up with the message boards. Wonderful emailing and corresponding with others. UPDATE: DOWN A TOTAL OF 39lbs 5 Weeks post op. Sept 20 is my six week check up-will have blood work ordered then. Sick twice- 1 slice of Roast Beef (vomit) 1 taste of sausage(vomit). Other than that no problems... FEEL ENERGETIC and went back to work after 4 weeks off. A little difficult getting in liquids at work- but I have to make time on breaks and lunch... Still working on getting ALL the grams of protein and liquid in ONE DAY.... Very close- but mostly cannot because I am so FULL all time- from the drinking and the small portions. Usually- breakfast is Protein shake or a 2 ounces of Kashi cereal and skim milk... Lunch usually chilli or soup dinner a meat/poultry or fish and veg... snack fruit, low fat whole wheat crakers, protein bar, Pospsicle or fudgsicle... ALL good. Taking vitamins 3 times a day 2 tablets optisource, take tums in between but just ordered cinnamon calcium citrate lozengers on the OH site. LIFE IS GOOD- DAily it is better- getting a lot of attention and positive feedback from those who notice the weight loss....I LOVE IT... Sunday September 18 I am below the 235lbs mark on MY scale. I feel terrific ENERGETIC and slimmer. Long way to go though. I am wearing a size XLrg tops from a 2/3x! Have to pack up and toss the larger clothes-"MY BODY IS TOO SMALL FOR THEM"!!!!!!!!!! I love it. Tuesday is my 6 week check up at the docs... More to follow.. Tuesday Sept 20- 6 week POST OP check up Lost 42 lbs... Down to 233lbs from 274... YAHOO Exceeded expectations set for 248-250 by now. Reviewed progress chart of the patients- I was ABOVE AVG for weight loss at this mark. I have lost 33% of excess body weight. Saw the PA MARK said: I had a LOT of weightloss in a short time. Received a script for thorough bloodwork! Told to do 50/50 protein 50 grams a day and 50 grams of liquid.. Mark reviewed good sources of protein- I currently follow. Told him I drink Coffee-- he said he does too.. Not a problem. Was cleared to WORK OUT at SYNERGY! On the way. My Scar looks incredible. I told them I massaged it with cream every night. It really is nice.. flat not puffy or swollen and really except for being red from fresh skin looks like it will fade away.. Told them I feel GREAT- I asked about B12 and he said I do not need it yet... They will check with me if anything is abnormal in blood work... Back DEC 20 for a three month check up.. I must say I was glowing. When you look good and achieve a goal in the weightroom - YOU FEEL GREAT>>!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I FEEL GREAT. OCT 2- 2005 9 weeks out down 49LBS.... ANother wow moment the scale moved under the 230 mark now I am 225... Cannot wait to hit the 50lbs loss mark.. Seems when I eat more and up the protein and water- voila!!!!!!! Clothes are too big for me- cause I AM SMALLER!!! Still finding joy in fitting loosely in the old smaller sizes I kept. I am feeling pretty good. THANK YOU ALL FOR THE SUPPORT. Especially my wonderful family who has right been my side encouraging me daily. They are very happy for me. I am so grateful to have them.. LOVE TO ALL and God Bless to those on the losing side as well..
July 2006 Motor vehicle accident.
serios injuries!
April 2007- C-spine surgery metallic implants cages and screws..revovery difficult
January 2008- hernia repair and abdominalplasty.
