Looking for encouragement, Not a lecture!!!!

 I am sorry if you were insulted, I did not mean to offend you or anyone, I am just looking for encouragement and knowledge from those who know best.

Thanks to all who have sent suggestions and comments.

touche', Caprice.....my first thought as well

what an entrance!

You've already gottwn lots of good advice. I just wanted to say heeeeeey...from amother Dr S patient!

Thanks, and hello from a fellow Dr. S patient back to you!

Good luck!

Elaine, I thought the wording of your question was interesting, asking if the only thing keeping us alive is vitamins and protein. Well yes! But what do you think keeps people who haven't had any wls alive? Protein! Vitamins! Everyone needs them, not just Ds'ers or even wls patients.
    True, with the DS, we need to take more in because we absorb less that we consume, but really, taking more vitamins isn't a big deal. You get into a daily routine, which might change from time to time depending on your labs, but for most of us it isn't difficult at all. I took vitamins pre-op. I take more of them now. Not a big deal.
     Protein - same thing. I did use some protein drinks early out because I had so much trouble eating, more than most DS'ers for some reason. I haven't had one now for a couple years, I guess. I get my protein from real food, just like everyone else, except I do make sure to get in enough daily to compensate for the malabsorption. Since you already have the VSG stomach and just need the switch, you shouldn't have a problem consuming more protein.
     And the DS isn't Atkins. I eat fruit, veggies, and yes, chocolate and other carbs. You do have to get in the protein first, and be aware of portions of carbs. Many DS'ers are lactose intolerant (I probably am) so milk can cause problems, but I tolerate cheese just fine, and use milk in cooking (the lactose gets broken down by the heat).
    Alcohol - my surgeon recommends no alcohol for the first, I think, year, then small amounts are ok. Since I don't like alcohol, this isn't an issue for me, but other DS'ers that I know do drink alcohol on occasion without problem.

    So, if you are willing to take more vitamins, eat tasty proteins, get labs when needed, the switch is for you. And you WILL feel better with more weight loss, and enjoy a MORE varied diet than what you can have now.

Larra

 

I am sorry if the way I phrased my question offended you, I truly meant nothing by it and I appreciate your response. Thanks for sharing with me your knowledge from your own experiences and what you have read from others.

Elaine, no apology needed. I was not offended in the least, I have just never before seen it put quite that way.  Everyone on the planet needs vitamins and protein to survive - no exceptions. We DS'ers do need to consume extra amounts of protein and certain vitamins, but you really do get into a routine of it.
    From reading your further posts, I have learned that this has been a long, hard road for you. I hope you will continue to learn all you can about life with the DS, and that you will find the courage to go forward and live your dreams.

Larra

Thank you for your kindness.
 I do plan to do additional research but I will probably do the surgery. I am 52 and not getting younger. I know Jerry said he was older than me and had it done. I just need to find some courage ....... Im a Chicken!!!!!!!!

I was a little older than you are (53) when I had my DS. My brother was, I believe, 56 (maybe 57), and I have friends who had the DS older than that, one at 62. All have done well and their health is so much improved, as well as quality of life.
     It's normal to be scared. It's major surgery and there are risks with any surgery. But the way I see it, the risks of not having the surgery were, at least for me, greater than the risks of the surgery, just not so immediate.
     Keep on researching. I'm confident that you will make the decision that is right for you.

Larra