Back on MFP after transplant

pcw65
pcw65 Posts: 31 Member
edited September 2023 in Introduce Yourself
I used MFP a few years ago when trying to lose weight from 230 to 210'ish. Then, my kidney disease got pretty bad and I was on dialysis and weight loss was no longer an issue.

Roll forward to 2023 and I weigh 164(!) as a 6' 2" guy. Being honest, I look like a POW, no muscle or fat at all. Bad back as I my muscles no longer keep everything straight and upright. Can count all ribs and see most bones etc.

The good news? I received a kidney transplant two weeks ago today. So, VERY early days but I am already feeling much better. The plan is to slowly introduce some light exercise over the next1-2 months and by the end of October be able to introduce more challenging workouts, graduating to "normal" workouts by Christmas.

The docs want me to try to put on weight, my target is 200. High protein is a must as it helps healing/infections etc.

Any pointers on where to start other than eat a lot! Especially on the light workout side.

ANY input is much appreciated.

Paul

Replies

  • neanderthin
    neanderthin Posts: 10,223 Member
    edited September 2023
    Good for you brother. Yeah, protein is very important and not just for muscle but for every cell in the body during your rebuilding and regenerative phase. Personally I would concentrate on quality animal proteins because of their very high absorption rate and bioavailable effect considering we are also animals they are simply simulated easier and to a better effect and it allows you to then address the carbohydrates more specifically, which will be crucial for the healthy growth your lookin for. Starchy whole grains and root veg would be my choice.

    I will say, stay away from foods with sugars in them and stick with those carbs that are mostly starch simply because starch doesn't get stored as visceral fat very much or at all actually and all sugars in a caloric surplus that aren't burned for immediate energy will get stored as triglycerides (fat) in the liver, which is basically visceral fat and you don't need to contribute to a fatty liver while gaining weight, so that's why I mentioned it. Also, liver triglycerides increase VLDL cholesterol which is the more atherogenic LDL particle and contributes to cardiovascular disease. Your going to gain fat, that's a given and if it's not visceral that is what I would call a win and we really don't want our fasting trigs to increase, so this helps. Fat should come from the protein of those natural animal sources and try and get some cold water fish for some omega 3's and if your going to add fat for cooking or salads I would suggest mostly monounsaturated like an extra virgin olive oil. this is just pretty basic advice and hope you get to your goal without too many problems. Of course talk to your doctors and let them know your course of action. cheers
  • pcw65
    pcw65 Posts: 31 Member
    Good for you brother. Yeah, protein is very important and not just for ...

    Many thanks for taking the time to pen this, it is much appreciated!
  • chris_in_cal
    chris_in_cal Posts: 2,521 Member
    pcw65 wrote: »
    The good news? I received a kidney transplant two weeks ago today. So, VERY early days but I am already feeling much better

    Welcome Paul,

    By brother-in-law got a sweet new kidney around two months ago. You are on trend :)

    This is a good place to be. Lot's of smart people and opportunities to track, organize, and follow along with your health and well being. HOWEVER, dude, consult your physician! I'll bet there are some thriving kidney transplantees here on MFP and I hope you connect up with them. But what do we know about post-op?

    This place has a strong click of strength bros, and you can find all that you need about preparing chicken breast, protein powder, and rep count. Again, if that's where you want to go, this is a good place.

    Welcome to MFP
  • pcw65
    pcw65 Posts: 31 Member
    pcw65 wrote: »
    The good news? I received a kidney transplant two weeks ago today. So, VERY early days but I am already feeling much better

    Welcome Paul,

    By brother-in-law got a sweet new kidney around two months ago. You are on trend :)

    This is a good place to be. Lot's of smart people and opportunities to track, organize, and follow along with your health and well being. HOWEVER, dude, consult your physician! I'll bet there are some thriving kidney transplantees here on MFP and I hope you connect up with them. But what do we know about post-op?....

    Yes, I am able to run anything I do by the nutritionists at UVA and get a sign off. I do need to build weight for now, and migrate to bulking a little once I am past say month 3-4. Not looking to be big, just defined.

    Thanks for the input and good luck to your brother-in-law!