My sister is struggling. She doesn't want to eat, ANYTHING!

Has anyone else felt that way after having Gastric Bypass? The thought of food makes her sick to her stomach! She is 5 weeks out from Gastric, and she is so weak! We are so worried about her, but when it is time to eat she says "YUCK!" and won't!

I am afraid she will get very sick or worse. I tried to explain to her that when I had my lapband put on (about 8 wks ago), when I was between soft and regular diet I didn't want to eat either, but I MADE myself because I have too much to live for! I told her the problem with me was when I was hungry before the band, I would pull into the drivethru, but now, I have to think about my meals. I have to plan them out...and maybe that's what she doesn't like...having to think about what to eat and how to prepare it.

Does anyone have any suggestions??? We asked her to see a psychiatrist. She seems depressed to me, crying all the time, laying around, not eating...sounds like depression to me...what do you think?

At this point it is more important for her to be drinking a lot of fluids.  If she can get in some protein all the better but she is at a bigger risk of dehydration right now.  Dehydration will make her feel nauseous and that could make it difficult for her to eat, too.  Encourage her to drink a lot and if she can get in some bites she will feel better.

Have her try a few bites of cottage cheese. Nothing to prepare just scoop. I am only a week and a half out but that is my favorite. I also agree make sure she gets plenty of fluids. I hope she feels better soon.

I am 2.5 months out and I have experienced the same thing as your sister. Food made me nauseous. They think I have a ulcer. I am sleepy all the time and I can only take a couple bites before I feel awful.  Keep encouraging her and get her to try something. My standard is carbmasters yogurt. When I can't tolerate anything else, I can eat half a container. Sometimes I can drink warm tea. Have her try different things. That is what I'm doing. Pray that she feels better soon.

You cannot make her eat, but you csn very gently remind her that the risks associated with dehydration and lack of protein can be serious.

I see that you are in PA. Not sure where, but the psychologist I saw pre op is in Pottstown. He cautioned me of the post op possibility of food aversion, so this may be part of her issue. If you are within striking distance, and if your sister is interested, send me a message and I will give you his name.

And you can be sure....hunger does return, down the road.

Is she drinking even if she is not eating?  Dehydration is much more of a health threat early out than not eating.  Severe dehydration can cause kidney failure, heart failure, and coma. 

Yes, she may very well be depressed.  She may also be thinking that she will lose MORE if she eats nothing (which is NOT true).  You cannot force her to do anything, but you can continue to try to encourage her to seek help so that she will feel better.  Physical weakness can contribute to depression.

Lora