Calling all pre-oppers for a fun questionnaire & support!
IslandSneezerooo
Posts: 268 Member
I thought it would be fun to get to know each other a little in order to better support each other as we get our surgeries... Feel free to answer these questions or add more... Skip any you don't want to share...
Where you are in the WLS process? Do you have a surgery date yet?
I was referred to my surgeon on November 9th, 2014. Had my first consult with my bariatric surgeon on Jan 22nd, and he referred me to his bariatric clinic. I have a group orientation on April 9th. After that session I can book my tests and NUT appts. They said I should have a surgery date by Nov of this year. *fingers crossed!*
Personal stats?
I live on a gulf island in BC Canada and my surgeon is in Victoria, BC. I'm turning 39 years old in May & am 5'4". I weighed in at 290 lbs on my home scale and 295 lbs at the surgeon's office the day of my consult (01/22/15), so that's my starting weight. I'm currently ~288 lbs on my home scale. My personal goal weight is 170 lbs, although I'm open to changing that, depending on how I feel when I get there.
What is your weight loss/gain history?
I was a petite slim child who was very active and never gave my body or weight a second thought. I went through a big growth spurt when puberty hit and was full height, DD breasts, and had a curvy woman's body at age 13 - I suddenly became hyper aware and critical of my body and my mom put me on a WW diet even though I was only 130 lbs. At age 15 I started having PCOS symptoms. I had a cyst burst, had a lot of body hair, and heavy irregular cycles.. When I graduated high school I was 140 lbs but had to work hard at it, and was very active.
My 20's were intensely stressful and not in a good way. Lost my mom to cancer, hated my dad's new wife, married a guy who was physically and emotionally abusive, had infertility issues, miraculously had a baby, multiple cross continent moves, poverty, homelessness, separations, single parenting, divorce... by age 23 I was 210 lbs, and my weight yo-yo'd between 210 and 230 as I alternated between emotional/stress binge eating and strict dieting.
My 30's have been stressful too, but in a much better way... found the love of my life, remarried, did trauma counselling and stopped binge eating, hubs adopted my son and is an amazing father, moved to a gorgeous gulf island, made a career change, graduated from college, started a couple successful businesses, bought our first home... Despite switching to a primarily organic whole food diet, trying lots of different exercise regimes (C25K, boxing, gym workouts, pilates, walking), and going on metformin for a year to try to get pregnant again (had a miscarriage) I was up to 280 lbs by my 35th birthday. I got my tubes tied and went off of metformine and decided to try the HCG protocol. Initially I lost 45 lbs, but then I slowly regained it plus another 10...
What made you decide to get WLS?
Last year an old SI joint injury flared up quite badly affecting my mobility. All my weight loss efforts have been short lived and regain has always been a struggle, so after 3 years of discussing the option of WLS with my family doc, researching it thoroughly, and trying to lose weight on my own, I finally decided it was time to go for WLS.
Do you have any co-mobidities or health challenges?
In addition to the SI joint injury restricting my mobility in the past year, my PCOS symptoms are the worst they've ever been. I recently started taking metformin again for PCOS related insulin resistance, and had added inositol (Vit B8) which is supposed to help. I also take iron/B-complex, calcium/magnesium, Vit D & zinc supplements.
The only other health challenge I have is allergies, food and environmental... My allergy specialist recently diagnosed me with Oral Allergy Syndrome, and I have eliminated all the foods I'm allergic to (nuts, soy, wheat, hemp, whey, carrots, melons, bananas, MSG, artificial sweeteners, caffeine), plus take a daily antihistamine and use nasal sprays to control ongoing hayfever.
Do you have a good support system?
My support system is my husband, son, aunt, dad, and one friend. Most of my other friends and in-laws are very outspoken and opinionated and I just don't have the energy to deal with explaining myself or defending my decision. Not sure if I'll ever tell anyone else in my real life, honestly... I also vlog on YT (my username is IslandSneezer if you want to sub) and the WLS community there is very supportive. I'm also hoping this group will be a great support. I have an account on a WLS forum, but find the most active members to be quite harsh and lacking empathy for the most part, which isn't my style at all, so I rarely login (they don't let you delete your account).
What kind of pre-op diet are you on right now?
The day after my surgeon's consult I started weighing, measuring and logging everything I ate in MFP. I also started slowly adding in more activity. At first I could barely do 5 minutes of exercise because of my SI joint flare up, but now I can do 25 minutes of stretching/core yoga, walk up to 40 minutes, or do 15 min on my deskcycle. I'm using the default MFP macros to lose 1 lb/week, and am basically maintaining, weight is fluctuating up and down the same 2 lbs... Once I have instructions from my NUT next month I'll do whatever they say...
Where you are in the WLS process? Do you have a surgery date yet?
I was referred to my surgeon on November 9th, 2014. Had my first consult with my bariatric surgeon on Jan 22nd, and he referred me to his bariatric clinic. I have a group orientation on April 9th. After that session I can book my tests and NUT appts. They said I should have a surgery date by Nov of this year. *fingers crossed!*
Personal stats?
I live on a gulf island in BC Canada and my surgeon is in Victoria, BC. I'm turning 39 years old in May & am 5'4". I weighed in at 290 lbs on my home scale and 295 lbs at the surgeon's office the day of my consult (01/22/15), so that's my starting weight. I'm currently ~288 lbs on my home scale. My personal goal weight is 170 lbs, although I'm open to changing that, depending on how I feel when I get there.
What is your weight loss/gain history?
I was a petite slim child who was very active and never gave my body or weight a second thought. I went through a big growth spurt when puberty hit and was full height, DD breasts, and had a curvy woman's body at age 13 - I suddenly became hyper aware and critical of my body and my mom put me on a WW diet even though I was only 130 lbs. At age 15 I started having PCOS symptoms. I had a cyst burst, had a lot of body hair, and heavy irregular cycles.. When I graduated high school I was 140 lbs but had to work hard at it, and was very active.
My 20's were intensely stressful and not in a good way. Lost my mom to cancer, hated my dad's new wife, married a guy who was physically and emotionally abusive, had infertility issues, miraculously had a baby, multiple cross continent moves, poverty, homelessness, separations, single parenting, divorce... by age 23 I was 210 lbs, and my weight yo-yo'd between 210 and 230 as I alternated between emotional/stress binge eating and strict dieting.
My 30's have been stressful too, but in a much better way... found the love of my life, remarried, did trauma counselling and stopped binge eating, hubs adopted my son and is an amazing father, moved to a gorgeous gulf island, made a career change, graduated from college, started a couple successful businesses, bought our first home... Despite switching to a primarily organic whole food diet, trying lots of different exercise regimes (C25K, boxing, gym workouts, pilates, walking), and going on metformin for a year to try to get pregnant again (had a miscarriage) I was up to 280 lbs by my 35th birthday. I got my tubes tied and went off of metformine and decided to try the HCG protocol. Initially I lost 45 lbs, but then I slowly regained it plus another 10...
What made you decide to get WLS?
Last year an old SI joint injury flared up quite badly affecting my mobility. All my weight loss efforts have been short lived and regain has always been a struggle, so after 3 years of discussing the option of WLS with my family doc, researching it thoroughly, and trying to lose weight on my own, I finally decided it was time to go for WLS.
Do you have any co-mobidities or health challenges?
In addition to the SI joint injury restricting my mobility in the past year, my PCOS symptoms are the worst they've ever been. I recently started taking metformin again for PCOS related insulin resistance, and had added inositol (Vit B8) which is supposed to help. I also take iron/B-complex, calcium/magnesium, Vit D & zinc supplements.
The only other health challenge I have is allergies, food and environmental... My allergy specialist recently diagnosed me with Oral Allergy Syndrome, and I have eliminated all the foods I'm allergic to (nuts, soy, wheat, hemp, whey, carrots, melons, bananas, MSG, artificial sweeteners, caffeine), plus take a daily antihistamine and use nasal sprays to control ongoing hayfever.
Do you have a good support system?
My support system is my husband, son, aunt, dad, and one friend. Most of my other friends and in-laws are very outspoken and opinionated and I just don't have the energy to deal with explaining myself or defending my decision. Not sure if I'll ever tell anyone else in my real life, honestly... I also vlog on YT (my username is IslandSneezer if you want to sub) and the WLS community there is very supportive. I'm also hoping this group will be a great support. I have an account on a WLS forum, but find the most active members to be quite harsh and lacking empathy for the most part, which isn't my style at all, so I rarely login (they don't let you delete your account).
What kind of pre-op diet are you on right now?
The day after my surgeon's consult I started weighing, measuring and logging everything I ate in MFP. I also started slowly adding in more activity. At first I could barely do 5 minutes of exercise because of my SI joint flare up, but now I can do 25 minutes of stretching/core yoga, walk up to 40 minutes, or do 15 min on my deskcycle. I'm using the default MFP macros to lose 1 lb/week, and am basically maintaining, weight is fluctuating up and down the same 2 lbs... Once I have instructions from my NUT next month I'll do whatever they say...
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Replies
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Hi everyone! Thanks for starting this thread :-)
I am scheduled for WLS on April 13, 2015. I went through a 6-month program including classes, support groups, and nutrition and behavioral health consults. My surgeon is doing an EGD on me this week to determine if he will do a sleeve or the RNY. I'm ok with either since they both have great results! This is actually the 3rd time that I have gone through a bariatric program - the last two times insurance caved on me last minute. My current insurance is covering it thank goodness!
Personal stats:
39 years old
5'4"
HW 306lbs
CW 289lbs
My doctor's goal weight for me is 160lbs because according to their fancy scale, I have far more muscle mass than average and they don't want me to lose that. I don't really have a personal goal weight. I have a goal of getting off medicines, being able to participate in life without being exhausted and in pain, and being able to get pregnant while I still have some viable eggs in there. I have mostly focused on changing my habits around eating and not so much on losing weight since I started the surgery program - eating small and frequent meals and snacks, having protein at each meal, stopping before I feel too full, etc. I have to start my pre-op diet in 5 days (!!!!!) which basically involves me limiting my intake to 3-4 protein drinks per day for 2 weeks.
My history of weight -- according to family pics, I was starting to get chubby around age 5. I had a lot of emotional connections to food for various reasons. I went on my first diet at 10, which in the 80s was all about low-fat/high-carb which wrecked havoc on my weight. Because it didn't work, I just ate less. And less. And less. I worked my way down to 500 calories per day - probably didn't qualify for an eating disorder diagnosis, but my eating was disordered. I lost weight but it wasn't a sustainable plan so when things got harder late in high school, I packed on the pounds and that continued through college. When I finished my bachelor's I was 245. I stayed there for about 10 years with occasional losses and gains. When I had a nasty injury at 30 I added the next 50-60 pounds on my frame and aside from a little eating disorder relapse 4 years ago, have weighed in the 285-295 range for about 9 years. I have the same tired story about trying everything with no appreciable results. What I liked most (which surprised me) was crossfit, but with all the orthopedic issues bodies create after 20 years of morbid obesity, one workout meant not walking well for days because of swelling and inflammation in my joints. Hopefully I will be able to give it another try after I heal and get some weight off me.
As for medical issues and comorbidities, I have PCOS and Metabolic Syndrome. I have severe GERD, autoimmune hypothyroidism, sleep apnea (I use a CPAP), and "arthritis" in my feet, ankles, knees, and back. I put that in quotes because really they just don't have a better diagnosis to give for "you are fat and your joints are struggling to deal with that." I am chronically exhausted and struggle at times with depression and anxiety.
My partner is my biggest support I have and couldn't ask for more. She had RNY 2 years ago and went from 330s to 170s in one year. She looks amazing. The only reason she stopped losing in the 170s was because she got pregnant with our son, who was born 5 weeks ago -- the best gift ever! Even though a new baby, a new house, and surgery is a lot all at once, I'm really glad I'm having the surgery now so that I can be a healthy mom for our little one :-) Otherwise, I have a few friends and family members who have gone through the surgery and are very supportive of my decision. The ones who aren't -- I remind myself they are ignorant and therefore their opinions hold no weight, so to speak. lol0 -
@imryoung We have almost identical stats! Same age, height and current weight, close goal weight (I'm quite muscular/large boned too), very similar health issues... crazy!
Congrats on the new baby and the upcoming surgery date! What an exciting time...
Thanks for replying... I'll be watching your progress with interest. 0 -
My insurance has approved and all the paper work has been in. Now to make my payment and get my surgery date.
HW: 276
CW: 259
HT: 5'4.5( yes the half inch counts! )
I am getting the sleeve VSG. I have been fighting the extra pounds since my 20's. I am now 50 and tired of doing it alone. I have friends and family to support me and a terrific guy beside me so I am sure to have all the support I need.
I am a Type 1 diabetic, I had PCOS, diabetic neuropathy and arthritis in my back. The later making mobility a challenge but even the 17lbs lost is already making a difference.
My personal goal weight is 150, the Surgeons for me is 135. I like his better, but I have my doubts about getting there.0 -
How exciting @TN_Tinker! Hope you get your surgery date soon!! I hear you on being worn out... Ditto.0
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I am pre-op but hope to be scheduling a surgery for VSG this spring. I only have 7 lbs to lose to prove my commitment to the surgeon, but must do so by April 8. I am trying to crunch down now and get it done!
I have been heavy most of my "adult" life, although was able to lose on weight watchers 30 years ago and actually reached my goal, became a lifetime member and became a lecturer for them for several years. Two children and a boatload of health problems later I regained all of it back plus another 100+ lbs. I battle with aches in my joints and will be assessed for one of the rheumatory diseases next week with yet another doctor. I am currently taking prednisone to see if that will help and that is notorious for adding on weight so I am trying extra hard to battle it's adding on effects.
I am 56 years old and my HW is 366. CW is 337 with a short term goal of 331. That is my doctor goal for surgery scheduling. In the long run, I hope to get in the 175 range. I am 5'11" so I "carry it well". I really don't care about the number on the scale, although I am using the downward trend to motivate me and challenge me in the right direction. I would just love to give up the medications for hypothyroidism (or at least reduce the amount) as well as high BP and cholesterol. I have to take Vitamin D and B12 already, so that won't be new once I have the surgery.
I began the process of inquiring about surgery in November and have the six months of dietician appts to complete in April. My sister (living in another state) had the surgery about 15 months ago and is doing well. Watching her give up diabetes medications and reduce other ones for BP and chol. makes me want to do what she has done.
I am really enjoying this forum for information and to hear so many different experiences from others. It is good to have the support ahead of time and to hear from real people, not just the ones used in advertisements. I am open with everyone about me working towards the surgery because I want to let it be known that I am eating this way now for a reason, and to bolster my resolve to make those changes now. I am willing to do what it takes to create the changes needed to make myself healthy and to live long and prosper! (Sorry, I got started on the phrase and couldn't stop.). I don't have grandchildren yet, but want to experience them for a long time, and anything else that God has in store for me in my remaining days. Before working towards this surgery I was more couch/bed potato than anything else and this is giving me a real purpose to get out and be active. I feel empowered by this opportunity to do the right thing for me.
I guess that is it. Keep me in mind as I complete the next 2 weeks and move towards this massive goal. Any suggestions and encouragement gladly accepted.
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jillcwatson1 wrote: »I am pre-op but hope to be scheduling a surgery for VSG this spring. I only have 7 lbs to lose to prove my commitment to the surgeon, but must do so by April 8. I am trying to crunch down now and get it done!
I have been heavy most of my "adult" life, although was able to lose on weight watchers 30 years ago and actually reached my goal, became a lifetime member and became a lecturer for them for several years. Two children and a boatload of health problems later I regained all of it back plus another 100+ lbs. I battle with aches in my joints and will be assessed for one of the rheumatory diseases next week with yet another doctor. I am currently taking prednisone to see if that will help and that is notorious for adding on weight so I am trying extra hard to battle it's adding on effects.
I am 56 years old and my HW is 366. CW is 337 with a short term goal of 331. That is my doctor goal for surgery scheduling. In the long run, I hope to get in the 175 range. I am 5'11" so I "carry it well". I really don't care about the number on the scale, although I am using the downward trend to motivate me and challenge me in the right direction. I would just love to give up the medications for hypothyroidism (or at least reduce the amount) as well as high BP and cholesterol. I have to take Vitamin D and B12 already, so that won't be new once I have the surgery.
I began the process of inquiring about surgery in November and have the six months of dietician appts to complete in April. My sister (living in another state) had the surgery about 15 months ago and is doing well. Watching her give up diabetes medications and reduce other ones for BP and chol. makes me want to do what she has done.
I am really enjoying this forum for information and to hear so many different experiences from others. It is good to have the support ahead of time and to hear from real people, not just the ones used in advertisements. I am open with everyone about me working towards the surgery because I want to let it be known that I am eating this way now for a reason, and to bolster my resolve to make those changes now. I am willing to do what it takes to create the changes needed to make myself healthy and to live long and prosper! (Sorry, I got started on the phrase and couldn't stop.). I don't have grandchildren yet, but want to experience them for a long time, and anything else that God has in store for me in my remaining days. Before working towards this surgery I was more couch/bed potato than anything else and this is giving me a real purpose to get out and be active. I feel empowered by this opportunity to do the right thing for me.
I guess that is it. Keep me in mind as I complete the next 2 weeks and move towards this massive goal. Any suggestions and encouragement gladly accepted.
You can and will do this. Some Dr have a pre op diet most don't. AS you go along you will hear 36 to 64 oz of water a day. Also you will hear a lot about protein first. I recommend starting now your protein need is current weight X 0.3 In milligrams. Calories to maintain your current weight just add a 0 example 300 lb is 3000 calories. MFP will calculate a 2lb weight loss plan for you. Even if you don't make your weight share this plan with your Dr as a good faith effort.
Randy (registered nurse)0 -
I got my surgery date!!! April 29th!0
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jillcwatson1 wrote: »I am pre-op but hope to be scheduling a surgery for VSG this spring. I only have 7 lbs to lose to prove my commitment to the surgeon, but must do so by April 8. I am trying to crunch down now and get it done!
I have been heavy most of my "adult" life, although was able to lose on weight watchers 30 years ago and actually reached my goal, became a lifetime member and became a lecturer for them for several years. Two children and a boatload of health problems later I regained all of it back plus another 100+ lbs. I battle with aches in my joints and will be assessed for one of the rheumatory diseases next week with yet another doctor. I am currently taking prednisone to see if that will help and that is notorious for adding on weight so I am trying extra hard to battle it's adding on effects.
I am 56 years old and my HW is 366. CW is 337 with a short term goal of 331. That is my doctor goal for surgery scheduling. In the long run, I hope to get in the 175 range. I am 5'11" so I "carry it well". I really don't care about the number on the scale, although I am using the downward trend to motivate me and challenge me in the right direction. I would just love to give up the medications for hypothyroidism (or at least reduce the amount) as well as high BP and cholesterol. I have to take Vitamin D and B12 already, so that won't be new once I have the surgery.
I began the process of inquiring about surgery in November and have the six months of dietician appts to complete in April. My sister (living in another state) had the surgery about 15 months ago and is doing well. Watching her give up diabetes medications and reduce other ones for BP and chol. makes me want to do what she has done.
I am really enjoying this forum for information and to hear so many different experiences from others. It is good to have the support ahead of time and to hear from real people, not just the ones used in advertisements. I am open with everyone about me working towards the surgery because I want to let it be known that I am eating this way now for a reason, and to bolster my resolve to make those changes now. I am willing to do what it takes to create the changes needed to make myself healthy and to live long and prosper! (Sorry, I got started on the phrase and couldn't stop.). I don't have grandchildren yet, but want to experience them for a long time, and anything else that God has in store for me in my remaining days. Before working towards this surgery I was more couch/bed potato than anything else and this is giving me a real purpose to get out and be active. I feel empowered by this opportunity to do the right thing for me.
I guess that is it. Keep me in mind as I complete the next 2 weeks and move towards this massive goal. Any suggestions and encouragement gladly accepted.
Just wanted to say good luck in the next two weeks and continue to let us know how you're doing!0 -
The sooner you make these changes during pre op the better for you in the long run. Best to you and here's to developing good habits!0
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I got my surgery date!!! April 29th!
WOOHOOO!! How exciting...
Won't lie, I'm a teeny bit jealous as I probably I have another 8 months to go... Loads of hurry up and wait...
@jillcwatson1 If there's anything I can do to help you make your goal, let me know. I'm always up for cheerleading and being an accountability partner. What are you doing to help you meet your goal?
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@IslandSneezerooo , I have been trying to change my eating habits over the past 6 months, and hope that I am moving in the right direction. I joined the fitness center near home for a full year and previously had only paid up for 3 months at a time. I am lazy on the activity and knew that this step was going to be major in making permanent change. I have added greek yogurt to my menu as a big protein source. I never liked yogurt before, so this is a good change. Also, I have been adding protein shakes as meal replacements for several meals over the week. I am wondering about doing this on a daily basis. I hear that some are doing 2 shakes as replacements plus one "healthy" meal a day. I don't know what step in the process theyare on. Seems possible post surgery and not pre.
Yesterday I had fewer than 1000 calories and needed to eat just to have things recorded here. An error in reporting my weight showed me GAINING weight when it posted my after 5 week estimate when finalizing my menu for the day. That was how I discovered the error. My weight graph is now way off from what it should be.
I am trying and will persevere for the next few weeks. I am out of town currently and that takes a bite out of my routine and my ability to be in control of my meals. Like I said, I did barely 1000 calories yesterday. It will be good to be heading home tomorrow. Back to the gym and regular meals again. Eating out and from someone else's fridge and on their schedule makes it tough. Glad I brought yogurt and shakes to fill inlast night.
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First of all, lmryoung, congrats on your newborn, and WLS date. I wish you much success with your journey. TN_Tinker congrats on getting your surgery date! The hard part is over, now for your new life to begin. Jillcwatson1 congrats on your success this far, you can do the rest!
As for me…
Where you are in the WLS process? Do you have a surgery date yet?
I had my weight loss surgery on March 9th. I am currently on full liquids. In 2 weeks I can change to pureed foods.
Personal stats?
I am 4’11” and am born and bred in the Lone Star State! My starting weight was 250 lbs.
What is your weight loss/gain history?
I was always “chubby” as a child. When I was a teen I got very active and was at a good weight for someone of my stature (or lack thereof). It wasn’t until after I had my daughter that my weight problems really began. I had post-partum depression, my (at the time) husband was away at Desert Storm, and I could hardly pull it together. My depression got so bad that I was eventually put on Paxil. My husband was not a very thoughtful person and would make comments about my weight; further pushing me into a darker place. My weight kept creeping upward, because I wasn’t taking care of myself. It was in my 30’s that I realized I had a big problem on my hands and needed to do something. I tried so many tines to lose the weight, and have done just about every program out there. But I always manage to put it back on and then some. I ended up diabetic with high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. I asked my PCP about the lap band and she shot me down immediately. She pushed me to try once again to do it on my own. I tried and was able to lose 50 pounds. Then one day I sprained my ankle and wasn’t able to do my exercise program. I was off my feet for a while and of course that meant the weight came back on, plus another 10 pounds. *sigh*
What made you decide to get WLS?
Next year I will turn 50 and I was told that if I don’t do something, I may not be here another 10 years. So that combined with my comorbidities were a pretty convincing argument.
Do you have any co-mobidities or health challenges?
Yes, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. My surgeon listed more, but I don’t wanna show off here.
Do you have a good support system?
Along with MFP, I am going to two support groups, I have a friend at work that’s also having WLS soon, and my mother and daughter have been pretty awesome, too. The other people I’ve told so far have been very supportive. So, yes, I believe I have a good support system.0 -
You can and will do this. Some Dr have a pre op diet most don't. AS you go along you will hear 36 to 64 oz of water a day. Also you will hear a lot about protein first. I recommend starting now your protein need is current weight X 0.3 In milligrams. Calories to maintain your current weight just add a 0 example 300 lb is 3000 calories. MFP will calculate a 2lb weight loss plan for you. Even if you don't make your weight share this plan with your Dr as a good faith effort.
Randy (registered nurse)
This protein recommendation is off. Typically protein recommendations for pre-op are on the order of 60-100 *grams* of protein per day.
The Dietary Reference Intake is 46g for women and 56g for men (http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/DRI/DRI_Tables/recommended_intakes_individuals.pdf page 5) is based on 0.8g/kg of body weight.
Most pre-op plans (certainly mine) emphasize significantly higher protein levels than this to help with satiety and prepare you for the post-op period, when the healing requires higher protein levels (this is my understanding of the reasons).
Other protein levels I have read from the weightlifting forums target 0.8g/ pound of lean body mass, which requires your body fat % to be known. I had a body composition scan done which showed me at 30% body fat, and at 180 pounds, that worked out to 156grams, which is significantly higher than I was eating.
I ended up choosing a protein percentage of 45% of my calories, which matches the 100ish grams that was my target.
Hopfully Jill will get a solid pre-op diet from her program.
I recommend that everyone learn as much as you can about the nutritional stuff. I find the Main Forums a pretty hostile place when it comes to WLS, but a gold mine of information on nutrition and Weight Loss principles as long as you look for science-backed stuff.
One of the best set of links to the good info that I have found is here:
http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/833026/important-posts-to-read
Having good background info helped me to understand some of the whys of the specific WLS diets and is helping me to set a path forward for myself.
Rob
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@CEK0220 congrats on getting surgery... Hoping you're well on the mend and getting into a good post op routine now with all the liquids and protein requirements. I had a similar experience with my doc... Took 3 years of proving I was working hard but making no significant progress before he referred me for WLS (has to be an MD referral in Canada).
@rpyle111 Thanks for your input. Good info!! I've read too that the increased protein aids with healing after surgery, it's not just for weight loss.0 -
Where you are in the WLS process? Do you have a surgery date yet?
In December my PCP referred me to the bariatric center. I started the process in January and have completed all NUT classes and pre-requisite tests (psych, sleep study, blood work, endoscopy/colonoscopy). My case is going before the board on April 10th and then my insurance will take a couple of weeks to approve surgery. I should have my surgery date by the end of April and expect surgery will be sometime in June or July. They are booking 2 months out right now.
Personal stats?
50 years old. Married 20 years. 2 teenage daughters. Work full time. Live in Maine (yes – we still have 4+ feet of snow on our front lawns)
What is your weight loss/gain history?
Negative body image since I can remember even though I look back and realize I was normal weight in HS. I’ve always felt huge even at 140lbs because I lived with a mom & sister that were shorter and very small (95-100lbs). I was under 200lbs until I had children then added 10 lbs annually until I was nearly 300lbs. I joined MFP in 2011 and lost 80lbs, got sick and suffered with inner ear and sinus issues for 2 years. Had a few surgeries, lost significant hearing and still have Eustachian tube dysfunction. Kicked myself for another year about the weight I gained back and then decided it was time for a more permanent solution.
What made you decide to get WLS?
I saw a picture of myself
Do you have any co-mobidities or health challenges?
Sleep apnea, Reflux, Joint Pain, elevated blood pressure.
Do you have a good support system?
Yes – my husband and both girls are super supportive. We’re all eating better and exercising together which is great. I also go to support meetings at the bariatric center which are really helpful.
What kind of pre-op diet are you on right now?
High Protein/Low Carb. Eating 1200 calories daily. I personalized MFP plan to lose 2 lbs a week and so far I’m on track. I started at 280 and have lost 35 lbs.. I have begun replacing at least one meal a day with a protein shake. I also work out at least 45 minutes a day, sometimes more. I love trying out new recipes and have not felt deprived yet.
Looking forward to taking this journey with all of you.
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Where you are in the WLS process? Do you have a surgery date yet?
I went to orientation about 2 weeks ago, saw the bariatric doctor yesterday, and the bariatric psychologist today. I see the dietitian on April 16 and also have my follow up with the psychiatrist that day as well. I started tracking all my food today, in hopes of getting all the required steps done ASAP. I'd love to have surgery in 2 months.
Personal stats?
I'm 5'1and 311 lbs.
What is your weight loss/gain history?
I hit puberty and my weight skyrocketed. I was always athletic, but always fat. By the time I was 23 I was about 275 lbs. Joined WW and over 3 years got down to 280. But mostly by eating very little and exercising for 2 hours a day. Got mono and started gaining weight again and now am at my highest ever.
What made you decide to get WLS?
I want to be healthier for pregnancy and to raise children.
Do you have any co-mobidities or health challenges?
PCOS, Hypothyroidism, achy knees, IBS
Do you have a good support system?
Yes, excellent. My husband is just over 1 year post op with a VSG and my mom is almost 10 years with a RenY.
What kind of pre-op diet are you on right now?
Tracking, making food at home, no more pop after today.
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Where you are in the WLS process? Do you have a surgery date yet?
Started program in Jan/2015. Did Orientation/Group meetings/Surgeon meeting, etc.
Met with Psych analysis and Nutrition.
Next meeting for Surgery Education and pre-op orientation with Nutritionist.
Personal stats?
Heaviest 316
Current 300
What is your weight loss/gain history?
Was a skinny stick until my 20's, was very athletic.
Had children, slowed my pace, added weight. Continued to be athletic (jog>biking>volleyball capt>walking) in order of descension.
AT 50 yrs old-just don't move like I used to, and eat more than I can burn off.
What made you decide to get WLS?
Dr recommended for last 4 years.
Family/Friends done it and it worked.
Gained the insight and initiative to take the steps necessary.
AND Insurance changed to cover 100%.
Do you have any co-mobidities or health challenges?
the usual, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, very bad knees
Do you have a good support system?
Yes, I do at home and also with the people on this site.
What kind of pre-op diet are you on right now?
Home cooking, better choices, no soda, more water, 3 meals a day... stay around 1500.
WHAT I HAVE LEARNED SO FAR?
1. Numerous things about myself in the last three months. My eating habits good and bad, my low spots and my good gains. How exercise influences my eating patterns. How substituting small things in a recipe creates big gains.
2. Not all programs are the same. Not all surgeons are the same. Be careful about what you read on this group, because what they are doing is for them, not for you. Each person is different - follow YOUR PROGRAM. YOUR SURGEON KNOWS BEST.
3. I do know that each meeting I am one step closer, and that my surgery will happen in the next couple months.Next month I will meet for more education and paperwork is submitted to insurance. I am not required to do any special liquid diet or lose weight prior to the surgery. BUT many tests will be done. My surgeon has been performing this surgery for over 30 years and has his way of doing this. I trust HIM and HIS TEAM.
Last remark, one of the best things I have read on this site!! Thank you Rob for all your great support.Having good background info helped me to understand some of the whys of the specific WLS diets and is helping me to set a path forward for myself.
Rob
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So glad to see your posts @RENAEJAE, @chckmeowt, and @JudiMoving2. I watch a lot of post-op vlogs online and everyone seems to already know each other, and I want some WLS friends too who are in the same phase as me... I realize I'll likely still be on this thread months after you've all had your surgeries, but that's okay... More to learn through your experiences.
What have I learned so far?- There are more success stories than failures and less complications than I thought initially.
- Work the tool and the weight will come off, push boundaries and the weight loss will stall.
- Post-op I will need to eat protein first.
- Water, water, water. Dehydration seems to be the biggest cause for re-hospitalization and gallstones after surgery...
- Protein shakes are not an option for me due to all my allergies (I tested a large variety of samples and it's all just a no-go). I'll be watering down greek yogourt post-surgery, and I'm cool with that!
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Thanks so much for starting this thread! It's wonderful to read all this I realize I am a little closer than some, but I hope to gain some friends!
Where you are in the WLS process? Do you have a surgery date yet?
I am scheduled for VSG on 4/7, on an all liquid prep diet and nervous as all get out!
Personal stats?
Heaviest weight was five years ago 387
Today 251
What is your weight loss/gain history?
I was always a chubby kid, size 6X in 1st grade, was a the biggest kid in middle school but short and by the time I hit HS I was in plus size women's clothes. The day I got married the first time, I was 26 years old and wearing a size 28 wedding gown. When I turned 40 I said enough and changed my eating habits and started working out losing 100 lbs, I was able to maintain that weight loss for five years - but couldn't budge the scale lower. Divorce and meeting the true love of my life made me realize I needed another tool for my continued success.
What made you decide to get WLS?
My fiance' is morbidly obese too, he wanted to check it out - so we did. I liked the surgeon and wanted to learn more, my EGD showed scar tissue and suspicious lesions in my stomach.
Do you have any co-mobidities or health challenges?
HBP, PCOS
Do you have a good support system?
My fiance' is next up for surgery as soon as his insurance is complete with their review, my future in-laws have had the surgery, my friends have had it, and of course all of you
What kind of pre-op diet are you on right now?
Liquids - 90 to 120 grams of protein, supplemented with 1 to 2 cups of non starchy vegetables, and of course all my bari vitamins (multi, iron, calcium, D, biotin - whew, it's literally a full time job) OHHHH and let's not forget 64 oz of water or sf liquids every day 0 -
@joysie1970 Nice to meet you! Thanks for the friend request... I'll be watching your journey and cheering you on! How cool that you are going to have a WLS buddy in your own home! My hubs and son are naturally slim so they can't really relate, but they support me the best way they can. 0
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@josie1970 - good luck tomorrow! Keep us posted on how you are doing.0
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Thanks so much! I am spending today getting ready, prepping the house for sleeping in the living room, going out for some last minute groceries and meditating@josie1970 - good luck tomorrow! Keep us posted on how you are doing.
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Nice - I should learn to meditate. So excited for you!!!0
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@joysie1970 Please keep us posted on how your surgery goes... Best of luck! 0
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IslandSneezerooo wrote: »@joysie1970 Please keep us posted on how your surgery goes... Best of luck!
Thanks so much! I'm ready I don't have my surgery time yet but will check in tomorrow as soon as I am able 0 -
Hi! I thought I'd jump in here.
Where you are in the WLS process? Do you have a surgery date yet?
Close to just starting. I met the surgeon at the end of February. They are looking at a July surgery date. I wasn't expecting so soon so it's a little scary.
Personal stats?
I live in Philadelphia. I'm 36 and 5'7". When I initially met the surgeon I was just over 302. So far I've lost 9 lbs. My goal is 170; my stretch goal is 150.
What is your weight loss/gain history?
I've been heavy since I was 5 or 6. I kept weight under control growing up by doing sports. I was still a teenager in a size 14. When I went to college, my weight exploded...no more sports. Since then I've been up and down, never below 238.
What made you decide to get WLS?
My mom has had several issues this year limiting her mobility. I've seen her and my dad struggle for years whether it's climbing the stairs at my house or walking around the city. I don't want the co-morbidities in my life.
Also, I can't take myself any longer.
Do you have any co-mobidities or health challenges?
No, thank heavens. I will if I keep going down this path. I do have migraines. They say they'll likely go away. I will be happy, but don't expect it. There seems to be some concern that I can't get insurance to pay for it without them.
Do you have a good support system?
Um.....I hope so! I've told 2 friends. One is fully supportive. The other says he'll support me but expressed reservations. I need to tell my parents, but I'm afraid of their response. I'm sure I'll have to tell others, but I don't know how.
What kind of pre-op diet are you on right now?
Im just using MFP to keep track of calories and journaling feelings while I eat to try and find patterns. Also, increasing cardio.
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Hi, brand new here. Just recently starting the process. I'm on my 2nd month of the 6 month required documented weight loss per my insurances so hope to get my surgery day in the early fall. I've completed most of the other steps already (I'm very eager lol).
Highest weight: 365 Current weight: 320
My goal weight is just to be out of plus size and into normal matching bra & panty sets!! Lol I want to ride roller coasters with my kids! I've never gotten to do that with them and I love that!! I want to fly on an airplane without a belt extender! I want to fit comfortably in regular chairs and toilet stalls! Lol Silly, every day things that thin people take for granted ;-)
Health issues: PCOS, extremely high bp, pre-diabetes, back problems.
What got me to my bottom so to speak: my doctor flat out told me I was going to die because my blood pressure was so high and I was already on 4 medications. I don't want to die :-( I've struggled with my weight pretty much my whole life after major childhood traumas I didn't deal with properly and then it got really bad when I married a sex addict who had multiple affairs and left me feeling even more unattractive and worthless. I finally had enough and we are currently separated. Sigh. I started going through this bariatric process a couple years ago but stopped because I couldn't leave him alone while I was in the hospital. Issues, I know. Anyway, this time I am doing it!!!!
I am 34 mother of 3 kiddos ages 15, 12, & 6. My 12 year old has high functioning autism. I had a miscarriage a few weeks ago which made this separation even more difficult (yes it was my husband's baby and we've been separated for almost 4 months). I homeschool our children. I don't really have a great support system honestly other than my therapist and current spousal support group I've been going to but I am strong and I am a survivor and dang it! I am determined!! I welcome any new friends on here though so feel free to add me :-)
I am following the Paleo/Primal & Zone diet meshed lol. It makes sense for me and it seems the closest to what I will have to eat after the surgery anyway so that's what I've been going with. My whole family has been eating much healthier and we all walk together and go to the gym together. Since I homeschool, we do most activities together. I am a what you see is what you get kind of person! I am real! I find humor in most any situation but I can't wait to not just be the funny fat friend you know?! I'm a professional photographer when I'm not a mother. I love my job because it's also my passion!0 -
@mbk830 & @cassybaca so gld to have you here, thanks for sharing where you're at in the process.
I had my Bariatric orientation today... Next step is blood work in the morning and forwarding my sleep study results... Once they have that info back I can make an appt with the internalist and nutritionist got further testing. Very exciting!!!0 -
Had my EKG and bloodwork done this morning for the bariatric clinic. Also got an email from my NUT confirming they got my sleep study report... My doctor upped my PCOS metformin meds this morning to 500 mg 2x/day and while I was there we chatted about surgery and he's pushing me to go for the gastric bypass over the vertical sleeve. That's what I've been leaning towards anyways as that one seems much more successful longterm for people with PCOS...0
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