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Ms. Poker Face’s Posts

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/2/11 6:56 am

Topic: RE: Favorites of Nectar protien?

I like the Kiwi Strawberry & Crystal Sky.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/2/11 4:23 am

Topic: RE: Crystal Light icetea... is it okay? (re. caffeine)

That's funny - they gave me Snapple Diet Tea in the hospital too. It tasted like utter crap to me at the time, but I'm back to liking tea again.

My plan says to really avoid caffiene if possible... doesn't put it on the Can't Have list, just to avoid if possible. So I have Crystal Light Green Tea with Peach once or twice per week. Otherwise I stick to other mix-in's such as Propel, Mio, or fruity flavors of Crystal Light (all decaf).

Check what your surgeon/NUT's plan says to see if you are to exclude it or not.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/2/11 4:20 am

Topic: RE: I officially hate eating and drinking

Oh, sleeve sister, Im' so sorry to hear it's going tough. I had it tough for quite a few weeks but it seems like it's getting better and better. Don't be afraid to bug your doc about this stuff.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/2/11 4:19 am

Topic: RE: I officially hate eating and drinking

I also think this is reason to contact your surgeon. What about asking him for an anti-nausea drug?

I found I was nauseas sometimes too and I believe it was slight dehydration. So now I start my day off with some kind of liquids... followed by a protein shake for breakfast... followed by more liquids... my total liquids goal before 10:30am is 40 oz. That's almost half of what the daily goal is. This has helped me a lot with nausea... I think because we don't drink for the entire time we sleep, we need to kick in the fluids early in the day. Then I alternate several small meals throughout the day with 8 oz of water. I end up with 64+oz fluids by the end of the day and either 4 or 5 small meals. The amount I can eat at each meal varies. Sometimes I can get in 2T and other times 2-3oz. Sometimes it's the consistency of the food and sometimes I can eat different amounts of the same food. This sleeve I have is sometimes unpredictable, but I'm learning every day. But the restriction is always there... even when my brain says 'eat more!' But I can't.

I also take generic Prilosec first thing in the morning with some water. Almost immediately followed by Phillip's Colon Health (combo probiotic). Both can be a little pricey but worth it to control the acid and keep the good stuff in my lower GI.

I'm really sorry this is hard for you. I can only offer what worked for me. Hang in there!!

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/1/11 7:27 pm

Topic: RE: Well I really F-up this time!!!

First off, I'm sorry things aren't going the way you wanted. That really makes things complex.

But I am gonna give you some tough love too! You are an adult, in charge of your own destiny. This applies to weight, smoking, relationships, everything. You control these things for you. Pull it together, girlfriend! Get back to your therapist ASAP. Talk things through with hubby. I believe you said you had trouble with your marriage before surgery. Consider counseling together.

Don't throw in the towel just because it's hard. Life is hard! Pick yourself, you are worth it! Truly! Keep us posted, but most of all stick to your surgeon's plan! Now is no time to give up!

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/1/11 7:21 pm

Topic: RE: Soooo tired.

*hugs*

I got better when I found the right balance of when to eat and when to drink. I also start my day with a protein shake to get my body going. In addition to that, I have half my water by 10:30 so I'm well hydrated. Then I alternate really small meals with liquids the rest of the day. Having real food has really helped my energy level too.

Please be sure to hit your fluids goal first and foremost, every day. Hydration is so key. Then, focus on that protein. Hold the carbs. I target 60+ g protein per day, less than 40 g carbs per day and less than 27 g fat per day (don't always keep it that low - hard with fish and cheese, etc). Always take my vitamins (multi, calcium, iron, plus prilosec, primrose oil and vitamin E... last two are by choice, not surgeon driven).

It will get better. Keep walking. I think it's going to help eventually. Keep us posted how it goes!!!

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/1/11 6:45 pm

Topic: RE: soft solids?

I was scared at first too, but I tried one new thing per day and it's gone quite well! I had a burger patty last night for the first time, grilled at home. Yum!

Just go slow and listen to your tummy!

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/1/11 6:37 pm

Topic: RE: soft solids?

I'm eating lots of baked fish, string cheese, hard boiled egg whites, deli meat, laughing cow cheese wedges, greek yogurt, tuna, shrimp, and meats that are really moist (think post roast cooked all day in a slow cooker with lots of broth).

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/1/11 5:38 pm

Topic: RE: How do I get in enough protein and calories eating 2 oz every couple hours?

You sound just like me about two weeks ago! I couldn't figure it out! But now I've hit my stride. By starting my day with a protein shake, I get in half my water by 10:30 which is when I have my first solid food of the day. Eat it, wait 30-60 minutes, drink another 8 oz. Repeat this through lunch, afternoon snack & dinner. I also struggled to keep my carbs low back then, but now it's a breeze. It gets better!! Just keep trying things to see what works.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 8/1/11 4:59 pm

Topic: RE: Post op 3 week puree diet recipes

I pureed several things. Just be sure you add enough liquid to the item, such as broth, mlik, low carb sauces, etc.

canned chicken (pretty soft)
egg salad
baked fish
ricotta cheese
cottage cheese
canned tuna

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 8:18 pm

Topic: RE: Strange reaction to eating...

I get this too after eating something with a little sugar in it. Lasts about 20-30 minutes. Feels terrible. I am pretty sure it is reactive hypoglycemia. Try googling it.

Feel better!

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 7:44 pm

Topic: RE: Bad News

I said a prayer for you. Please stay strong & healthy so that you can go through the grief process the best way you can.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 7:43 pm

Topic: RE: Home after 6 nights in the hospital!!!

So sorry you went through this!! But really glad you are home and resting now!

Thanks for sharing your story here. We need to hear the good, bad & ugly!!

Sip, walk, rest, repeat! I hope the rest of your recovery goes well and you feel better very soon.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 5:53 pm

Topic: RE: Surgery Wednesday. How much water should I be drinking

You should shoot for 64+ oz a day. Hydration is key right now or you'll end up the ER to get fluids (which is fine if you need to, but better to avoid it if you can).

64+ oz hard for the first week, but please check out this thread about this from this morning:

http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/vsg/4432197/How-to-get-in- 64oz-a-day-for-New-ops/

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 5:51 pm

Topic: RE: Protien/Shake Help Needed Please!

LOTS of choices out there. I like pre-made EAS Carb Control (available at Walmart, etc). I also like Nectar Powders which mix well with water and remind me of koolaid. You can order sample packs from several sites, like vitalady.com and mybariatricpantry.com.

Here is also a list of samples and how to get them:
http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/vsg/4391400/Sample-ideas/

And here is a giant list of different protein shake ideas:
http://www.verticalsleevetalk.com/topic/5906-a-huge-list-of- protein-drink-recipes/

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 5:47 pm

Topic: RE: pain/discomfort halfway down right side of abdomen. what is it?

On and off since my surgery, I have some slight pain and discomfort on my right side, just below my ribcage, way out on the side of my body. It almost feels like a softball is stuck in there. I know it's not kidney pain because I've had that and it's much lower and in the back. Is this likely gallbladder or liver related?? Not sure what those issues feel like?

I have an appt next week with my surgeon so I'll ask him then. But in the mean time, anyone else have ideas or experience this?

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 5:43 pm

Topic: RE: Holy DUMPING Batman!

I think true dumping lasts for a day or two. But if it's shorter, like an hour or something, it's very likely reactive hypoglycemia. I have experienced this twice now. Eat something with a little sugar in it and then get shaky, sweaty and heart races. Feels terrible! I need to lie down almost immediately. Lasts about 20-30 minutes and then I'm fine.

I have avoided sugar of almost any kind like the plague since. It didn't take much for me to feel this icky either.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 5:40 pm

Topic: RE: how long on your liquid diet?

Two weeks full liquids, then two weeks pureed foods, then two weeks soft foods, then onto regular foods.

I mostly had clear liquids and focused on hydration for the first week. Protein shakes were just too thick.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 5:37 pm

Topic: RE: drain or no drain?

I had a drain and didn't think it was too big of a deal. They removed it on day 2 post op before I left the hospital.

My doctor uses them because he has a pretty good idea by the amount, color and texture of the drainage whether or not there's a leak. He also takes samples two times to test for saliva, which is another indication of a leak. When he pulled mine out, he told me would count to three and then pull it. It felt weird, but didn't hurt.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 4:28 pm

Topic: RE: When can i eat solids?

I am surprised you didn't get the full rundown before your surgery too!

I got a huge binder from my surgeon that included a bunch of stuff, including the full diet progression. My NUT also gave me a 19 page document that detailed the diet from A to Z. I had both of these months before surgery. It really helped me plan and gave me a comfort level that I knew what I was in for.

Double check that you don't have this somewhere in the literature you got from your doc/NUT.

Follow what your surgeon says, but for a side reference, here is LASF's info which several folks on the board use religiously.
http://www.sleeveguide.com/uploads/1/7/9/4/1794785/dietguide vged42006feb.pdf

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 4:24 pm

Topic: RE: Any stomach sleepers out there???

I am more of a side sleeper, but occasionally sleep on my stomach. I started on my side at about 10 days out and on my stomach about 3 weeks out.

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 2:10 pm

Topic: RE: Strange Weight Loss Pattern

Pretty much the same thing here. Everyone is commenting on my face and neck and shoulder areas. I am losing a little bit everywhere else, but nothing like way on top. Odd!

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 12:05 pm

Topic: RE: So, how did you tell people or didn't tell people?

I am not telling anyone. Those that know I had surgery think I just had a hiatal hernia repair. They've already noticed weight loss and I explain that I'm taking my health more serious now. Cut out caffiene, diet soda, most carbs, eating more but smaller meals during the day. For now, it's working. We'll see if more questions come as I lose more.

I didn't tell everyone when I went on blood pressure meds, nor did I tell them when I have pap smears or a mammogram, so I apply the same logic here. It's my business and others simply don't need to know the details.

I'm a private person anyway. And I also don't need anyone else's ideas about what I should or shouldn't be doing, whether it's VSG or female issues or blood pressure.

Good luck!

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 9:49 am

Topic: RE: i feel lightheaded?

Everyone is different as far as how much your new tummy can hold. For the first two weeks, I felt like sipping was a full time job. I did it constantly from the time I woke up until an hour before bed. Each day should get better for you. My doc told me to focus on fluids and only after getting a handle on those did I need to work on protein (in the first week or two). Dehydration is your biggest enemy right now, so sip sip sip! I think 20 oz is the reason you feel lightheaded... be careful not to get too dehydrated and don't be afraid to go to the ER for fluids if this continues.

Good luck!

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M

Ms. Poker Face
on 7/31/11 9:19 am

Topic: RE: one month post op ...a rambling of sorts

Sounds like you've really got it figured out! Yay for you!!

5'5" Goal Reached!
Start Weight 246 Maintenance Range <155 Current Weight 158
Starting size: 22, 2x
Current size: 6/8, S/M