girlonamission
Hubby is now POST-OP!
Dec 20, 2010
I got to see my handsome guy just for a few minutes, but he looked SO happy! Big smiles, and says he feels pretty good! He was a little loopy from the Morphine, but not too silly. The surgeon said that everything went great, they were able to do it laparoscopically, and they also fixed a hiatal hernia while they were in there. There isn't a bed empty on the floor yet, so I am back in the waiting room until they get an empty room. But I got a cute pic of him on my cell phone, and sent it to our families! (Blackmail for later, ha ha!)
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Hubby is having surgery today!
Dec 19, 2010
...and I am a nervous wreck! But very excited for him. Today is the beginning of his WLS journey! We left the house around 4:20 AM and got here to the hospital just a few minutes after 5:00 AM, check-in time. We said a prayer in the car, then he took his Emend pill with a sip of water, and we headed on inside! We signed in at the SDS desk, and soon they took us back to get ready. He got his OH-SO-SNAZZY hospital gown on, and the nurse took his blood pressure, pulse, temp, etc. Our gastric bypass fairy godmother, Miss Pat, came in to talk to us about the details of everything... just like when I had my surgery back in March. When we got a quiet moment, just the two of us, he had to give me "the talk," you know, the "If anything happens to me" talk... even though I know he will do great. Almost made me cry, but I held it together! Then we got a nice surprise when a good preacher friend of ours came by to say hello and had a quick prayer with us before they took hubby back to pre-op holding. I went out, moved the car, and found the surgical waiting room... immediately found a nice, warm corner and dragged out the laptop!
I was a little worried when they came to get me, saying that they needed me to sign some form for the anesthesiologist... but it was just a way to get me back to the surgical holding area! A friend of ours is a nurse back there, and she was able to get me back there to give him one last hug and kiss before they took him back to surgery. They took him back right at 8:00 AM, and I heard from the waiting room attendant at 8:45 AM that his surgery was underway. At 8:50 AM I got the sweetest photo of our son from my mom - he is having a "sleepover" with my parents while we are doing this - and he slept great! Having a blast with the grandparents!
Just hanging out in the waiting room, holding down my corner of the waiting room, and drinking my water like a good little post-op patient. They told us that the floor we are supposed to stay on is currently full, so we may have to wait a while before we get into a room. Steve may be in recovery for a while, but I think they will be able to sneak me back there to see him when he is able to have a visitor. I am going to try to keep on my food/water schedule, like I do when I am at home - got a backpack full of WLS-friendly snacks with me here in the waiting room. Might actually go down to the cafeteria and see if they have anything there that looks good. For now, just watching some stuff on Hulu and trying not to THINK TOO MUCH! I know that Dr. Watson is a great surgeon, and God is watching out for my sweet hubby.
How to Regain-Proof Your Weight Loss Surgery
Dec 14, 2010
by Katie Jay, MSW, CTA-certified Wellness Coach Director, National Association for Weight Loss Surgery
www.nawls.com
You've lost all or most of the weight you wanted to lose, but are you afraid you will regain it? Don't you wish there was a magic wand you could wave over yourself and be freed forever from the bondage of obesity? It'd be great to know a sure-fire way to “regain-proof” your weight loss surgery (WLS), wouldn't it? Many obese people hope WLS will be that “magic wand.” They summon all their courage and energy, and take the plunge, hoping they will finally lose weight almost effortlessly, and for good. But then reality sets in. While many people who have WLS experience a honeymoon period, in which hunger is nearly nonexistent and the pounds fall off rapidly, most also experience a return of hunger, and eventually a return to old behavior patterns that can threaten their WLS success. Not everyone returns to old behaviors, though. And some people go there briefly and then finally find something better than a magic wand – personal responsibility. Some people are wildly successful with WLS. Success usually isn't an accident. Most successful people have found a method that has helped them reshape their body, mind, and spirit, so they can keep their weight off and be healthy. If you're reading this, you probably are one of them (or you can be!). Here are 7 tips to help you regain-proof your WLS
1. Follow directions. Okay, this one is obvious, but it always amazes me how many people do not do this one simple thing. Review your surgeon's guidelines often -- at least once a month. Each month you can set a new goal to improve in an area that challenges you. When you receive new information, be sure to update your guidelines. Following directions can be difficult, so take responsibility to work on your resistance. Read or listen to motivational information, get an accountability partner, or seek therapy. If you are struggling with tip #1, treat it as a serious challenge you have decided to overcome.
2. Move. If you increase quantities or choose higher-calorie foods after you have lost some weight, the best strategy to maintain your loss is to MOVE more. More movement will compensate for the calories you have added back into your diet. I'm not encouraging you to eat more, but IF you find yourself eating more, get moving! Moving means regular exercise, parking further away from a building, doing squats while you are waiting for the microwave to heat something up, putting on music after work and dancing while you do your evening chores. All movement counts!
3. Own your thought life. When you think negative thoughts, you create negative outcomes. If you have an ongoing negative dialog with yourself, work on changing it. You do not have to sink into negative thinking. Read motivational books, listen to inspiring books on tape, or put on music you like. If you find yourself dwelling on something depressing or discouraging – CHANGE YOUR MIND. Switch subjects. Focus on something else. You have a choice about what you focus on. Focus on thoughts that will lift you up. And if you are feeling overburdened or depressed, seek help from a professional.
4. Treat your depression. Many people who have had WLS struggle with depression. If you are feeling blue, or hopeless, or tired and discouraged, get evaluated for depression – and treat it. Depression will undermine your WLS success.
5. Know what you weigh. It's easy to slip into denial. Staying conscious about what you weigh can keep you from putting on a lot of weight. Many of us would rather not have to worry about what we weigh, or be reminded of our lack of perfection. But, the disease of obesity takes away that luxury, if you want to be free of it. Rather than resisting and feeling guilty, surrender. Surrender to staying conscious. It is tiring and overwhelming at first, but that discomfort soon gives way to confidence and self control. It's worth the effort.
6. Take time to get in touch with how you are feeling. Focusing on your feelings can be a challenge. It's easier to numb out or allow yourself to be distracted so that you don't have to feel anything uncomfortable. Learning to feel your feelings and respond to them with care is a skill worth developing. So much overeating is related to feelings. Find a way to get comfortable with your feelings and deal with them in a healthy way.
7. Record what you are eating. All the scientific studies about food journals show that writing down what you eat can have a strong positive effect on your food choices and weight management. While many people resist writing down what they eat, most of the people who successfully keep off weight do it. Again, if you are feeling resistant, step up to the challenge and work through that sabotaging feeling.
0 comments
www.nawls.com
You've lost all or most of the weight you wanted to lose, but are you afraid you will regain it? Don't you wish there was a magic wand you could wave over yourself and be freed forever from the bondage of obesity? It'd be great to know a sure-fire way to “regain-proof” your weight loss surgery (WLS), wouldn't it? Many obese people hope WLS will be that “magic wand.” They summon all their courage and energy, and take the plunge, hoping they will finally lose weight almost effortlessly, and for good. But then reality sets in. While many people who have WLS experience a honeymoon period, in which hunger is nearly nonexistent and the pounds fall off rapidly, most also experience a return of hunger, and eventually a return to old behavior patterns that can threaten their WLS success. Not everyone returns to old behaviors, though. And some people go there briefly and then finally find something better than a magic wand – personal responsibility. Some people are wildly successful with WLS. Success usually isn't an accident. Most successful people have found a method that has helped them reshape their body, mind, and spirit, so they can keep their weight off and be healthy. If you're reading this, you probably are one of them (or you can be!). Here are 7 tips to help you regain-proof your WLS
1. Follow directions. Okay, this one is obvious, but it always amazes me how many people do not do this one simple thing. Review your surgeon's guidelines often -- at least once a month. Each month you can set a new goal to improve in an area that challenges you. When you receive new information, be sure to update your guidelines. Following directions can be difficult, so take responsibility to work on your resistance. Read or listen to motivational information, get an accountability partner, or seek therapy. If you are struggling with tip #1, treat it as a serious challenge you have decided to overcome.
2. Move. If you increase quantities or choose higher-calorie foods after you have lost some weight, the best strategy to maintain your loss is to MOVE more. More movement will compensate for the calories you have added back into your diet. I'm not encouraging you to eat more, but IF you find yourself eating more, get moving! Moving means regular exercise, parking further away from a building, doing squats while you are waiting for the microwave to heat something up, putting on music after work and dancing while you do your evening chores. All movement counts!
3. Own your thought life. When you think negative thoughts, you create negative outcomes. If you have an ongoing negative dialog with yourself, work on changing it. You do not have to sink into negative thinking. Read motivational books, listen to inspiring books on tape, or put on music you like. If you find yourself dwelling on something depressing or discouraging – CHANGE YOUR MIND. Switch subjects. Focus on something else. You have a choice about what you focus on. Focus on thoughts that will lift you up. And if you are feeling overburdened or depressed, seek help from a professional.
4. Treat your depression. Many people who have had WLS struggle with depression. If you are feeling blue, or hopeless, or tired and discouraged, get evaluated for depression – and treat it. Depression will undermine your WLS success.
5. Know what you weigh. It's easy to slip into denial. Staying conscious about what you weigh can keep you from putting on a lot of weight. Many of us would rather not have to worry about what we weigh, or be reminded of our lack of perfection. But, the disease of obesity takes away that luxury, if you want to be free of it. Rather than resisting and feeling guilty, surrender. Surrender to staying conscious. It is tiring and overwhelming at first, but that discomfort soon gives way to confidence and self control. It's worth the effort.
6. Take time to get in touch with how you are feeling. Focusing on your feelings can be a challenge. It's easier to numb out or allow yourself to be distracted so that you don't have to feel anything uncomfortable. Learning to feel your feelings and respond to them with care is a skill worth developing. So much overeating is related to feelings. Find a way to get comfortable with your feelings and deal with them in a healthy way.
7. Record what you are eating. All the scientific studies about food journals show that writing down what you eat can have a strong positive effect on your food choices and weight management. While many people resist writing down what they eat, most of the people who successfully keep off weight do it. Again, if you are feeling resistant, step up to the challenge and work through that sabotaging feeling.
Which Vitamins When?
Nov 11, 2010
Calcium and Vitamin D are Friends --- take them together, they help each other absorb better. Your body can only deal with 500mg at a time, so split up your doses into 3 or 4 doses per day to reach your 1500-2000mg daily goal. Calcium tends to absorb better when taken with a meal, so schedule it that way if you can.
Iron and Vitamin C are Friends --- Iron needs an acid environment to break down and Vitamin C does that job so make sure they are in your tummy at the same time. Iron does not like food, so take it on an empty stomach. However, if you get an upset tummy because of the iron, pick a non-dairy snack.
Iron and Calcium are Enemies --- iron and calcium fight for the same cell receptors in the body and calcium is bigger and badder and always wins. Which means the iron is simply excreted from the body and not used at all. Keep iron and calcium at least 2 hours apart from each other.
Vitamin B's are a Family --- they work together as a team and are best taken at the same time. Your Multi-Vitamin has many B's in it, so take it together with your biotin, B12 and B-complex if you're taking those too.
(Thanks to Pam for this reminder!)
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Iron and Vitamin C are Friends --- Iron needs an acid environment to break down and Vitamin C does that job so make sure they are in your tummy at the same time. Iron does not like food, so take it on an empty stomach. However, if you get an upset tummy because of the iron, pick a non-dairy snack.
Iron and Calcium are Enemies --- iron and calcium fight for the same cell receptors in the body and calcium is bigger and badder and always wins. Which means the iron is simply excreted from the body and not used at all. Keep iron and calcium at least 2 hours apart from each other.
Vitamin B's are a Family --- they work together as a team and are best taken at the same time. Your Multi-Vitamin has many B's in it, so take it together with your biotin, B12 and B-complex if you're taking those too.
(Thanks to Pam for this reminder!)
ASMBS Nutrition Guidelines for the Surgical Weight Loss Patient
Nov 09, 2010
Multivitamin
- Adjustable Gastric Band/VSG: 100% of daily value
- RNY: 200% of daily value
- BPD/DS: 200% of daily value
- Choose a multivitamin that is a high-potency vitamin containing 100% of daily value for at least 100% of daily value of 2/3 of nutrients
- Begin with chewable or liquid
- Progress to whole tablet/capsule as tolerated
- Avoid time-released supplements
- Avoid enteric coating
- Choose a complete formula containing at least 18 mg iron, 400mcg folic acid, as well as selenium, and zinc in each serving
- Avoid children’s formulas that are incomplete
- May improve gastrointestinal tolerance when taken close to food intake
- May separate dosage
- Do not mix multivitamin containing iron with calcium supplement, take at least 2 hours apart
- Individual brands should be reviewed for absorption rate and bioavailability
- Specialized bariatric formulations are available
Additional cobalamin (B12)
- AGB/VSG: Not Applicable
- RNY: 350-500mcg if taken orally, 1000mcg / mo intramuscular injection
- BPD/DS: NAAdditional elemental calcium
- AGB/VSG: 1500mg /day
- RNY: 1500-2000mg
- BPD/DS: 1800-2400mg
- Choose a brand that contains calcium citrate and vitamin D3
- Begin with chewable or liquid
- Progress to whole tablet / capsule as tolerated
- Split into 500-600 mg doses; be mindful of serving size on supplement label
- Space doses evenly throughout day
- Suggest a brand that contains magnesium, especially for BPD/DS
- Do not combine calcium with iron containing supplements
- Wait 2 or more hours after taking multivite or iron supplement to take
- Wait 2 or more hours between doses
- Promote intake of dairy beverages and/or foods that are significant sources of dietary calcium in addition to recommended supplements
- Combined dietary and supplemental calcium intake greater than 1700 mg/day might be required to prevent bone loss during rapid weight loss
Additional elemental iron
- AGB / VSG: NA
- RNY: Minimum 18-27mg / day elemental
- BPD/DS: Minimum 18-27mg / day elemental
- Recommended for menstruating women and those at risk of anemia
- Begin with chewable or liquid
- Progress to tablet as tolerated
- Dosage may need to be adjusted based on biochemical markers
- No enteric coating
- Do not mix iron and calcium supplements, take at least 2 hours apart
- Avoid excessive intake of tea due to tannin interaction
- Encourage foods rich in heme iron
- Vitamin C may enhance absorption of non-heme iron sources
Fat-soluble vitamins
- AGB / VSG: NA
- RNY: NA
- BPD/DS: 10,000 IU of vitamin A, 2000 IU of vitamin D, 300 mcg of vitamin K
- With all procedures, higher maintenance doses may be required for those with a history of deficieincy
- Water-soluble preparations of fat-soluble vitamins are available
- Retinol sources of vitamin A should be used to calculate dosage
- Most supplements contain a high percentage of beta carotene which does not contribute to vitamin A toxicity
- Intake of 2000 IU vitamin D3 may be achieved with careful selection of multivitamin and calcium supplements
- No toxic effect known for Vitamin K1, phytonadione (phyloquinone)
- Vitamin K requirement varies with dietary sources and colonic production
- Caution with vitamin K supplementation should be used for patients receiving coagulation therapy
- Vitamin E deficiency is not prevalent in published studies
Optional B complex
- AGB / VSG: 1 per day
- RNY: 1 per day
- BPD/DS: 1 per day
- B-50 dosage
- Liquid form is available
- Avoid time released tablets
- No known risk of toxicity
- May provide additional prophylaxis against B-vitamin deficiencies, including thiamin, especially for BPD/DS procedures as water-soluble vitamins are absorbed in the proximal jejunum
Multivitamin
- Adjustable Gastric Band/VSG: 100% of daily value
- RNY: 200% of daily value
- BPD/DS: 200% of daily value
- Choose a multivitamin that is a high-potency vitamin containing 100% of daily value for at least 100% of daily value of 2/3 of nutrients
- Begin with chewable or liquid
- Progress to whole tablet/capsule as tolerated
- Avoid time-released supplements
- Avoid enteric coating
- Choose a complete formula containing at least 18 mg iron, 400mcg folic acid, as well as selenium, and zinc in each serving
- Avoid children’s formulas that are incomplete
- May improve gastrointestinal tolerance when taken close to food intake
- May separate dosage
- Do not mix multivitamin containing iron with calcium supplement, take at least 2 hours apart
- Individual brands should be reviewed for absorption rate and bioavailability
- Specialized bariatric formulations are available
Additional cobalamin (B12)
- AGB/VSG: Not Applicable
- RNY: 350-500mcg if taken orally, 1000mcg / mo intramuscular injection
- BPD/DS: NAAdditional elemental calcium
- AGB/VSG: 1500mg /day
- RNY: 1500-2000mg
- BPD/DS: 1800-2400mg
- Choose a brand that contains calcium citrate and vitamin D3
- Begin with chewable or liquid
- Progress to whole tablet / capsule as tolerated
- Split into 500-600 mg doses; be mindful of serving size on supplement label
- Space doses evenly throughout day
- Suggest a brand that contains magnesium, especially for BPD/DS
- Do not combine calcium with iron containing supplements
- Wait 2 or more hours after taking multivite or iron supplement to take
- Wait 2 or more hours between doses
- Promote intake of dairy beverages and/or foods that are significant sources of dietary calcium in addition to recommended supplements
- Combined dietary and supplemental calcium intake greater than 1700 mg/day might be required to prevent bone loss during rapid weight loss
Additional elemental iron
- AGB / VSG: NA
- RNY: Minimum 18-27mg / day elemental
- BPD/DS: Minimum 18-27mg / day elemental
- Recommended for menstruating women and those at risk of anemia
- Begin with chewable or liquid
- Progress to tablet as tolerated
- Dosage may need to be adjusted based on biochemical markers
- No enteric coating
- Do not mix iron and calcium supplements, take at least 2 hours apart
- Avoid excessive intake of tea due to tannin interaction
- Encourage foods rich in heme iron
- Vitamin C may enhance absorption of non-heme iron sources
Fat-soluble vitamins
- AGB / VSG: NA
- RNY: NA
- BPD/DS: 10,000 IU of vitamin A, 2000 IU of vitamin D, 300 mcg of vitamin K
- With all procedures, higher maintenance doses may be required for those with a history of deficieincy
- Water-soluble preparations of fat-soluble vitamins are available
- Retinol sources of vitamin A should be used to calculate dosage
- Most supplements contain a high percentage of beta carotene which does not contribute to vitamin A toxicity
- Intake of 2000 IU vitamin D3 may be achieved with careful selection of multivitamin and calcium supplements
- No toxic effect known for Vitamin K1, phytonadione (phyloquinone)
- Vitamin K requirement varies with dietary sources and colonic production
- Caution with vitamin K supplementation should be used for patients receiving coagulation therapy
- Vitamin E deficiency is not prevalent in published studies
Optional B complex
- AGB / VSG: 1 per day
- RNY: 1 per day
- BPD/DS: 1 per day
- B-50 dosage
- Liquid form is available
- Avoid time released tablets
- No known risk of toxicity
- May provide additional prophylaxis against B-vitamin deficiencies, including thiamin, especially for BPD/DS procedures as water-soluble vitamins are absorbed in the proximal jejunum
- Note >1000mg of supplemental folic acid provided in combination with multivitamins could mask B12 deficiency
The Simple Woman's Daybook
Oct 06, 2010
FOR TODAY
Outside my window...
I am thinking...
I am thankful for...
From the learning rooms...
From the kitchen...
I am wearing...
I am creating...
I am going...
I am reading...
I am hoping...
I am hearing...
Around the house...
One of my favorite things...
A few plans for the rest of the week...
A picture for thought I am sharing...
http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/
0 comments
Outside my window...
I am thinking...
I am thankful for...
From the learning rooms...
From the kitchen...
I am wearing...
I am creating...
I am going...
I am reading...
I am hoping...
I am hearing...
Around the house...
One of my favorite things...
A few plans for the rest of the week...
A picture for thought I am sharing...
http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/
The 10 Most Common Mistakes Weight Loss Surgery Patients Make
Sep 20, 2010
From The National Association for Weight Loss Surgery(www.nawls.com)
While weight loss surgery (WLS) is considered the most successful treatment for morbid obesity, it is just the first step toward a fresh start. Weight regain is a common phenomenon, as is illness when weight loss surgery patients do not follow recommended guidelines.
Breaking old patterns, establishing an effective post-WLS lifestyle, and addressing the emotional issues that often complicate obesity takes more than commitment; it takes support, information, and resources.
The National Association for Weight Loss Surgery (NAWLS) helps WLS patients shape new lives. We teach people what they need to know and help them makes the changes they need to make to achieve long-term WLS success -- physically, mentally, and spiritually.
In a November 2005 poll conducted by NAWLS, the following were identified as the top 10 mistakes WLS patients make:
1st Mistake: Not Taking Vitamins, Supplements, or Minerals
Every WLS patient has specific nutritional needs depending on the type of surgery you have had. Not only is it a good idea to ask your surgeon for guidelines, but also consult with an experienced WLS nutritionist. Understand there is not a standard practice that all surgeons and nutritionists follow in guiding WLS patients. So, it is important to do your own research, get your lab tests done regularly, and learn how to read the results.
Some conditions and symptoms that can occur when you are deficient in vitamins, supplements, or minerals include:
Osteoporosis; pernicious anemia; muscle spasms; high blood pressure; burning tongue; fatigue; loss of appetite; weakness; constipation and diarrhea; numbness and tingling in the hands and feet; being tired, lethargic, or dizzy; forgetfulness, and lowered immune functioning.
Keep in mind, too, that some conditions caused by not taking your vitamins, supplements, or minerals are irreversible. For example, a vitamin B-1 deficiency can result in permanent neurological deficits, including the loss of the ability to walk.
2nd Mistake: Assuming You Have Been Cured of Your Obesity
A "pink cloud" or honeymoon experience is common following WLS. When you are feeling better than you have in years, and the weight is coming off easily, it's hard to imagine you will ever struggle again. But unfortunately, it is very common for WLS patients to not lose to their goal weight or to regain some of their weight back.
A small weight regain may be normal, but huge gains usually can be avoided with support, education, effort, and careful attention to living a healthy WLS lifestyle. For most WLSers, if you don't change what you've always done, you're going to keep getting what you've always gotten -- even after weight loss surgery.
3rd Mistake: Drinking with Meals
Yes, it's hard for some people to avoid drinking with meals, but the tool of not drinking with meals is a critical key to long-term success. If you drink while you eat, your food washes out of your stomach much more quickly, you can eat more, you get hungry sooner, and you are at more risk for snacking. Being too hungry is much more likely to lead to poor food choices and/or overeating.
4th Mistake: Not Eating Right
Of course everyone should eat right, but in this society eating right is a challenge. You have to make it as easy on yourself as possible. Eat all your meals--don't skip. Don't keep unhealthy food in sight where it will call to you all the time. Try to feed yourself at regular intervals so that you aren't as tempted to make a poor choice.
And consider having a couple of absolutes: for example, avoid fried foods completely, avoid sugary foods, always use low-fat options, or only eat in a restaurant once a week. Choose your "absolutes" based on your trigger foods and your self knowledge about what foods and/or situations are problematic for you.
5th Mistake: Not Drinking Enough Water
Most WLS patients are at risk for dehydration. Drinking a minimum of 64 oz. of water per day will help you avoid this risk. Adequate water intake will also help you flush out your system as you lose weight and avoid kidney stones. Drinking enough water helps with your weight loss, too.
6th Mistake: Grazing
Many people who have had WLS regret that they ever started grazing, which is nibbling small amounts here and there over the course of the day. It's one thing to eat the three to five small meals you and your doctor agree you need. It's something else altogether when you start to graze, eating any number of unplanned snacks. Grazing can easily make your weight creep up. Eating enough at meal time, and eating planned snacks when necessary, will help you resist grazing.
Make a plan for what you will do when you crave food, but are not truly hungry. For example, take up a hobby to keep your hands busy or call on someone in your support group for encouragement.
7th Mistake: Not Exercising Regularly
Exercise is one of the best weapons a WLS patient has to fight weight regain. Not only does exercise boost your spirits, it is a great way to keep your metabolism running strong. When you exercise, you build muscle. The more muscle you have, the more calories your body will burn, even at rest!
8th Mistake: Eating the Wrong Carbs (or Eating Too Much)
Let's face it, refined carbohydrates are addictive. If you eat refined carbohydrates they will make you crave more refined carbohydrates. There are plenty of complex carbohydrates to choose from, which have beneficial vitamins. For example, if you can handle pastas, try whole grain Kamut pasta--in moderation, of course. (Kamut pasta doesn't have the flavor some people find unpleasant in the whole wheat pastas.) Try using your complex carbohydrates as "condiments," rather than as the center point of your meal. Try sprinkling a tablespoon of brown rice on your stir-fried meat and veggies.
9th Mistake: Going Back to Drinking Soda
Drinking soda is controversial in WLS circles. Some people claim soda stretches your stomach or pouch. What we know it does is keep you from getting the hydration your body requires after WLS--because when you're drinking soda, you're not drinking water! In addition, diet soda has been connected to weight gain in the general population. The best thing you can do is find other, healthier drinks to fall in love with. They are out there.
10th Mistake: Drinking Alcohol
If you drank alcohol before surgery, you are likely to want to resume drinking alcohol following surgery. Most surgeons recommend waiting one year after surgery. And it is in your best interest to understand the consequences of drinking alcohol before you do it.
Alcohol is connected with weight regain, because alcohol has 7 calories per gram, while protein and vegetables have 4 calories per gram. Also, some people develop an addiction to alcohol after WLS, so be very cautious. Depending on your type of WLS, you may get drunker, quicker after surgery, which can cause health problems and put you in dangerous situations.
If you think you have a drinking problem, get help right away. Putting off stopping drinking doesn't make it any easier, and could make you a lot sicker.
0 comments
While weight loss surgery (WLS) is considered the most successful treatment for morbid obesity, it is just the first step toward a fresh start. Weight regain is a common phenomenon, as is illness when weight loss surgery patients do not follow recommended guidelines.
Breaking old patterns, establishing an effective post-WLS lifestyle, and addressing the emotional issues that often complicate obesity takes more than commitment; it takes support, information, and resources.
The National Association for Weight Loss Surgery (NAWLS) helps WLS patients shape new lives. We teach people what they need to know and help them makes the changes they need to make to achieve long-term WLS success -- physically, mentally, and spiritually.
In a November 2005 poll conducted by NAWLS, the following were identified as the top 10 mistakes WLS patients make:
1st Mistake: Not Taking Vitamins, Supplements, or Minerals
Every WLS patient has specific nutritional needs depending on the type of surgery you have had. Not only is it a good idea to ask your surgeon for guidelines, but also consult with an experienced WLS nutritionist. Understand there is not a standard practice that all surgeons and nutritionists follow in guiding WLS patients. So, it is important to do your own research, get your lab tests done regularly, and learn how to read the results.
Some conditions and symptoms that can occur when you are deficient in vitamins, supplements, or minerals include:
Osteoporosis; pernicious anemia; muscle spasms; high blood pressure; burning tongue; fatigue; loss of appetite; weakness; constipation and diarrhea; numbness and tingling in the hands and feet; being tired, lethargic, or dizzy; forgetfulness, and lowered immune functioning.
Keep in mind, too, that some conditions caused by not taking your vitamins, supplements, or minerals are irreversible. For example, a vitamin B-1 deficiency can result in permanent neurological deficits, including the loss of the ability to walk.
2nd Mistake: Assuming You Have Been Cured of Your Obesity
A "pink cloud" or honeymoon experience is common following WLS. When you are feeling better than you have in years, and the weight is coming off easily, it's hard to imagine you will ever struggle again. But unfortunately, it is very common for WLS patients to not lose to their goal weight or to regain some of their weight back.
A small weight regain may be normal, but huge gains usually can be avoided with support, education, effort, and careful attention to living a healthy WLS lifestyle. For most WLSers, if you don't change what you've always done, you're going to keep getting what you've always gotten -- even after weight loss surgery.
3rd Mistake: Drinking with Meals
Yes, it's hard for some people to avoid drinking with meals, but the tool of not drinking with meals is a critical key to long-term success. If you drink while you eat, your food washes out of your stomach much more quickly, you can eat more, you get hungry sooner, and you are at more risk for snacking. Being too hungry is much more likely to lead to poor food choices and/or overeating.
4th Mistake: Not Eating Right
Of course everyone should eat right, but in this society eating right is a challenge. You have to make it as easy on yourself as possible. Eat all your meals--don't skip. Don't keep unhealthy food in sight where it will call to you all the time. Try to feed yourself at regular intervals so that you aren't as tempted to make a poor choice.
And consider having a couple of absolutes: for example, avoid fried foods completely, avoid sugary foods, always use low-fat options, or only eat in a restaurant once a week. Choose your "absolutes" based on your trigger foods and your self knowledge about what foods and/or situations are problematic for you.
5th Mistake: Not Drinking Enough Water
Most WLS patients are at risk for dehydration. Drinking a minimum of 64 oz. of water per day will help you avoid this risk. Adequate water intake will also help you flush out your system as you lose weight and avoid kidney stones. Drinking enough water helps with your weight loss, too.
6th Mistake: Grazing
Many people who have had WLS regret that they ever started grazing, which is nibbling small amounts here and there over the course of the day. It's one thing to eat the three to five small meals you and your doctor agree you need. It's something else altogether when you start to graze, eating any number of unplanned snacks. Grazing can easily make your weight creep up. Eating enough at meal time, and eating planned snacks when necessary, will help you resist grazing.
Make a plan for what you will do when you crave food, but are not truly hungry. For example, take up a hobby to keep your hands busy or call on someone in your support group for encouragement.
7th Mistake: Not Exercising Regularly
Exercise is one of the best weapons a WLS patient has to fight weight regain. Not only does exercise boost your spirits, it is a great way to keep your metabolism running strong. When you exercise, you build muscle. The more muscle you have, the more calories your body will burn, even at rest!
8th Mistake: Eating the Wrong Carbs (or Eating Too Much)
Let's face it, refined carbohydrates are addictive. If you eat refined carbohydrates they will make you crave more refined carbohydrates. There are plenty of complex carbohydrates to choose from, which have beneficial vitamins. For example, if you can handle pastas, try whole grain Kamut pasta--in moderation, of course. (Kamut pasta doesn't have the flavor some people find unpleasant in the whole wheat pastas.) Try using your complex carbohydrates as "condiments," rather than as the center point of your meal. Try sprinkling a tablespoon of brown rice on your stir-fried meat and veggies.
9th Mistake: Going Back to Drinking Soda
Drinking soda is controversial in WLS circles. Some people claim soda stretches your stomach or pouch. What we know it does is keep you from getting the hydration your body requires after WLS--because when you're drinking soda, you're not drinking water! In addition, diet soda has been connected to weight gain in the general population. The best thing you can do is find other, healthier drinks to fall in love with. They are out there.
10th Mistake: Drinking Alcohol
If you drank alcohol before surgery, you are likely to want to resume drinking alcohol following surgery. Most surgeons recommend waiting one year after surgery. And it is in your best interest to understand the consequences of drinking alcohol before you do it.
Alcohol is connected with weight regain, because alcohol has 7 calories per gram, while protein and vegetables have 4 calories per gram. Also, some people develop an addiction to alcohol after WLS, so be very cautious. Depending on your type of WLS, you may get drunker, quicker after surgery, which can cause health problems and put you in dangerous situations.
If you think you have a drinking problem, get help right away. Putting off stopping drinking doesn't make it any easier, and could make you a lot sicker.
"The Quick-Fix Mentality"
Jul 28, 2010
This is an excerpt from a blog post I read the other day... it is helping me cope with a situation that has arisen lately, and I just wanted to share. :)
"What I would like to address today is dealing with the Quick Fix Mentality. What I mean by this is that unfortunately many non-ops, even those who have struggled with weight their entire lives, may tend to look down on WLS patients as those who have "taken the easy way out", gone for the "quick fix", or even, "given up." Do you feel angry just thinking about it? I know I do... partially at myself because I used to feel the exact same way.
"I came across a new blog today that I absolutely love. A great woman who has overcome a lot and lost her weight "on her own" and has been maintaining the loss. We all know how rare this is and how difficult it is to do. I read many of her posts and started to really like this blogger I didn't know... started to feel like she was a new friend (as bloggers and blog readers alike, I'm sure you can understand this feeling!) Then I read her about me page and she said something along the lines of any of you can do it, just use your determination - and not for a quick fix like weight loss surgery.
"My heart sank a little. Shouldn't she understand? Shouldn't people who have gone through The Struggle of Weight be supportive of others in the same boat, no matter the method they use to try and overcome it? Being a blogger myself I knew that the best route, rather than hastily leaving a comment about being offended, would be to email her privately, share a little of my story, and hopefully plant a seed of understanding so that she would be more open to the journey a WLS patient goes through. Since I found her blog through another WLS patient to begin with, I'm sure I am not the only one reading and not the only one who would feel a little disheartened.
"I was pleasantly surprised by a lovely response she wrote to me. She explained that she knew she had it in her, hadn't done everything she could, and choosing surgery would have been the quick fix for HER. But that she knows it is a hard journey as well with lots of work involved and she doesn't look down on it. She even plans to change her wording in her About Me section. All in all it was a great exchange. "I thought I would share a bit of what I had written to her, in hopes that it may encourage others to stand up for themselves with critical friends, family members, blog readers, whoever. Remember above all that your journey is yours alone and it is no one else's place to judge.
"Stand up for yourself when people criticize your choice to have surgery. I think it is important to stress that the only way to have "given up" would have been to stop trying. By having surgery you made a decision to improve your health and your life. Be proud of that. Be proud of yourselves."
Posted at: http://gastric-girl.blogspot.com/2010/07/guest-post-christie-not-quick-fix.html
Author's Blog: http://healthy-christie.blogspot.com
Telogen effluvium.
Jul 28, 2010
I knew this would happen, but I'm still not ready to deal with it.
"Telogen effluvium is a form of nonscarring alopecia characterized by diffuse hair shedding, often with an acute onset. Telogen effluvium is a reactive process caused by a metabolic or hormonal stress, or by surgery or medications. Generally, recovery is spontaneous and occurs within 6 months." (emedicine.medscape.com)
I had RNY on March 8th - almost 5 months ago. Yesterday when I was washing my hair, I ended up with an unusually large amount of hair all over my hands instead of on my head. More came out when I towel-dried my hair, more came out when I combed it, and even more came out when I put my leave-in conditioner in it. It usually sheds a lot anyway with washing, but yesterday it was just frightening.
I have thin, fine hair anyway, and have had thinning hair for about the past 8 years, due to PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and hormone imbalances. (I'm 31 years old.) I saw a dermatologist about 6 years ago... tried Rogaine for Women, Nioxin shampoos, and various other treatments in the past, without any improvement. It has just been getting progressively worse over time, causing me to get it cut shorter and shorter.
I am taking Biotin supplements daily since surgery. I have been self-conscious about my thinning hair for a long time. So now that it is falling out even quicker, I am trying not to freak out. I know that it is only hair. It is hard to deal with, but it is only cosmetic. Hopefully it will grow back, but even if it doesn't, I will never regret having RNY. If I have to choose between my HEALTH and my HAIR, I choose my HEALTH!
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"Telogen effluvium is a form of nonscarring alopecia characterized by diffuse hair shedding, often with an acute onset. Telogen effluvium is a reactive process caused by a metabolic or hormonal stress, or by surgery or medications. Generally, recovery is spontaneous and occurs within 6 months." (emedicine.medscape.com)
I had RNY on March 8th - almost 5 months ago. Yesterday when I was washing my hair, I ended up with an unusually large amount of hair all over my hands instead of on my head. More came out when I towel-dried my hair, more came out when I combed it, and even more came out when I put my leave-in conditioner in it. It usually sheds a lot anyway with washing, but yesterday it was just frightening.
I have thin, fine hair anyway, and have had thinning hair for about the past 8 years, due to PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and hormone imbalances. (I'm 31 years old.) I saw a dermatologist about 6 years ago... tried Rogaine for Women, Nioxin shampoos, and various other treatments in the past, without any improvement. It has just been getting progressively worse over time, causing me to get it cut shorter and shorter.
I am taking Biotin supplements daily since surgery. I have been self-conscious about my thinning hair for a long time. So now that it is falling out even quicker, I am trying not to freak out. I know that it is only hair. It is hard to deal with, but it is only cosmetic. Hopefully it will grow back, but even if it doesn't, I will never regret having RNY. If I have to choose between my HEALTH and my HAIR, I choose my HEALTH!
I am no longer OBESE!
Jul 25, 2010
I am no longer OBESE (according to the BMI chart) but just OVERWEIGHT. That was a BIG goal for me... and now I have reached it. I have also reached "ONE-derland" on the scale, weighing in this morning at 198 lbs! That is amazing to me. I would have to lose another 30 lbs to get to 167-168 lbs and be a "normal" weight for my height, according to the BMI chart. Honestly, I wouldn't mind being "overweight" for the rest of my life, as long as I am never "obese" again. Woo-hoo! I am SO proud of myself today. :)
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