Gastric Bypass - My Journey

New Exercise Mission and Recent Food Issue

2011-05-23T19:58:00.001-07:00

It has been almost 2 years since my surgery. I have maintained my 170 pound weight loss for more than a year now. I am about to embark on a new journey that will hopefully help in toning my body. I have not been stead fast with the exercising portion of this surgery. I have signed up for a walk in September that I will now have 4 months to train for. I will be attempting to walk the Boston Marathon to raise money for the Jimmy Fund. I am excited about doing it. I will be attempting the full marathon but will go as far as I can. Back in '05 I weighed 70 pounds more than I do now and I walked 18 miles in one day for the Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer walk. It was such a feeling of accomplishment. Now that I've lost all this weight, I want to put my extra stamina to work for a good cause. I will keep everyone updated on how the training is going.

Last week I had pork roast for the first time since the surgery. My body did not process it properly and it became stuck. I had eaten food afterwards, before I was aware that it was stuck. It was very painful and I felt nauseous. The pain started in my stomach and went into my chest, my throat, the base of my neck, my ear and up to the top of my head. It was all I could do to crawl into bed. After I got there my husband suggested that we go to the emergency room. I chose not to because I truthfully didn't want to move.

Morning came and my chest was still in pain as if someone had punched me the night before. I did feel somewhat better though and it didn't feel like the food was stuck anymore. I guess pork is on the "Cannot Eat" list.

I've also been having trouble with sugars lately. I'm not sure if it was whole milk that I drank today (not thinking - I was at a restaurant and they just brought it out. I had forgotten to ask for low fat milk) or if it was a bite of strawberry banana pancake that did it but it gave me a severe headache and nauseousness with dizzy spells. I need to be more careful.

17 Months After Surgery

2010-12-26T15:37:00.000-08:00

I would love to report all positive things in this post but the fact of the matter is that you are probably looking for the truth and that is why you are out there searching sites regarding this surgery. I want you to know, before you read further that each person is different and each surgery is different. Please take with you what you have learned and use it as an average only. Do not think that everything that each person reports will be what happens to you.

Here's the most recent in my saga. I have lost 170 pounds since I had the surgery back in August of 2009. I am ecstatic with the results. This number could be bigger and will be when I decide to stop being lazy and exercise more, which will hopefully be sooner than later. I have been at a plateau for several months now. But my weight doesn't fluctuate more than 5 pounds.

My eating habits have slipped. I eat chocolate now and I can keep down just about any type of food. I just watch my portions. My stomach has expanded and I feel I can eat more like 2-3 cups of food at a time. What I eat now is about a third or fourth of what I used to eat when I was 170 pounds larger. I now weight 230 and hope to lose another 60 pounds.

I have been having issues lately that I would like to share. It started in a month and a half ago. I was at work and started having chest pain. It was difficult to breathe deep. It wasn't extreme so I relaxed for a few minutes. It didn't go away so I ended up taking a trip to the emergency room. They drew some blood and took a chest x-ray and determined it was stress related. A week or two later I started getting pains in my stomach. I'm pretty stubborn and figured I was sick and it would go away. It continued over time off and on and became more frequent. It was in the center of my stomach above my belly button, on the left lower quadrant and on the right under my rib and occasionally it affected my back. I went to my primary physician. It was under his advisement that I make an appointment with a surgeon to have my gallbladder checked.

I saw the surgeon and he took blood work and ordered an ultrasound. I have not gotten the results yet. The surgeon that I saw said he didn't think it sounded like a gallbladder issue. He thought I may have stones but did not want to consider removing the gallbladder if that was not the true issue because it would not make the current issues improve and could actually make it worse. He referred me back to my original bariatric surgeon to review the results (which were to rule out the gallbladder and stones) and check, perhaps by upper endoscopy to see if I have a stricture in my esophagus. He stated that occasionally, after this type of surgery the valve that leads into the stomach becomes lodged open and food and stomach acid may shoot back up the esophagus causing acid reflux, ulcers and/or hernias. There could also be the narrowing that I spoke of. They would correct that by inserting a balloon and expanding it to open the narrowed area. The final thing he thinks is a possibility is food being lodged in my esophagus, although I can't imagine that would not correct itself on it's own.

So I am currently in a holding pattern due to the holidays. I will report back with the results after January 5, 2011. Until then, I have pains in my chest daily, sometimes several times a day that can range from a mild discomfort to pain that stops me in my tracks and feels like what I would relate to as a heart attack. This pain doesn't always happen just after eating. Sometimes it occurs an hour or so after eating and even when I drink water. It seems to have subsided somewhat in severity over the past few days and I'm hoping it stays this way. I still have the pains in my stomach and sometimes it is accompanied by nausea.

As I stated, this may or may not happen to you. However, you should be familiar with the symptoms of gallbladder issues and be aware that a good number of Gastric Bypass patients eventually lose their gallbladder at some point after their surgery. It is one organ that has a difficult time dealing with the rapid and extreme weight loss. Being aware of the symptoms will ensure you get the proper treatment faster. Faster is very important when dealing with pain.

If you have had the surgery and you no longer have your gallbladder, or have had the symptoms described, please feel free to comment and share your experiences.

Best wishes to all!

Emotional Changes

2010-06-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

It seems as more time goes by I realize the changes I've gone through, not only in my appearance but in my personality.

It's now been 10 months since the surgery. Some people who are considering the surgery may have questions about what to expect emotionally. Although it will differ for everyone, I feel that if I share my experiences, perhaps it will give a hint of what could be.

Before the surgery, I was an outgoing person but I felt trapped. I loved talking to people but there were times I would judge myself before they got the chance to and I would shut down. I felt that people were constantly judging me. My friends at times would interrupt my conversations and talk over me like I wasn't there. It was difficult when I did leave the house to go places with the kids. I had to talk myself into everything I did. I loved the beach but it was a nightmare of humiliation for me. The amusement parks were torcher. I loved the coasters but I was too big to ride. I stayed away from friends, people who once meant the world to me because I was ashamed of what I had become on the outside. My life was boring and full of doubt and hope for the future. I felt like I had no life. I certainly didn't feel like I had any quality of life.

So much has changed. It is hard to keep up with everything at times. The loss happened so fast that I think I'm still getting used to the new me. I have a great deal more confidence which has allowed me to enjoy going places with my teen boys without feeling like an embarrassment to them. Their friends interact with me and treat me with respect. I've recently ridden the coasters and was grateful to be able to remember how much I enjoyed them. We have had spur of the moment friend gatherings that are amazing. I feel like I can finally relax in my own skin and be myself. Even family gatherings bring less anxiety. I don't have to talk myself into going somewhere, I just go. I don't have to worry about finding the nearest parking spot or how far I'll have to walk to get to where I'm going. Eliminating all those thoughts and fears have been the greatest weight lost. It frees up time and room for healthier self talk. When I'm with those same friends, they don't talk over me or cut me off. I have their respect and what I have to say seems to matter more. I know that's wrong of people to do that but it's how people are. I treat myself better and respect myself more which has made a huge difference. I feel like I am even more outgoing and I have been able to reconnect with my old friends with confidence and actually enjoy myself without judging myself or expecting others to do the same.

I feel like the person I was as a teenager. My personality is back and I look forward to each day instead of dreading it.

The physical aspects that have changed have also given me confidence. I recently ran up 3 flights of stairs and was not out of breath. These were the same 3 flights of stairs that I used to have to stop on 3/4 of the way to the top because I couldn't breathe and my chest felt like it was on fire. That is not just a physical change. Imagine the emotional high that gave me!

I am happier, I stick up for myself when I need to without feeling guilty, I love more, I play more, I respect myself more.

It has been an amazing journey and I wouldn't trade it for the world. It has given me my life back.

I still have moments where I forget that I am this renewed person. I still have anxiety and feel like people judge me but it is few and far between compared to the minute by minute feelings I used to have.

Life is good.

KIDNEY STONES!!

2010-05-10T16:17:00.003-07:00

I was feeling nauseous the other night so I decided to lay down. The pain in my left side was so severe that I couldn't relax. After a few minutes I got sick. I was grateful at first, thinking that now I would feel better. That wasn't the case. It was not subsiding at all. It became more intense and remained constant. After about 30 minutes of being stubborn and telling myself it would go away, my husband was able to convince me to go to the emergency room.

The pain continued to worsen, which I didn't think was possible. It was difficult to breathe and I continued to vomit, but there was nothing left in me. It felt like I was waiting in the ER forever. (This is the part where I have to apologize to anyone else who was there ahead of me. Not only did I jump the line, but I was making a lot of noise. A woman and her child were even praying aloud for me.) The nurse came in immediately after I was in the room to start an IV line for pain meds and fluids. I had my husband call work and tell them I wouldn't be in the next day. My boss later confessed that she didn't know who had called out. All she could hear was someone yelling in the background. Once the pain medication kicked in I felt much better.

The CAT scan came back and they were quick to diagnose the issue as a kidney stone. That's what had me at a 10 on the pain scale? I had heard of kidney stones, but I never heard anyone talk about what it was like to have one.

They kept me over night and pumped fluid into me all night long and most of the next day. I had them stop the pain meds around 1am, 8 1/2 hours after the whole thing started. It wasn't until then that I started feeling okay without it.

The doctor stated that the stone was formed due to calcification. After doing some research, I learned that having the Gastric Bypass increases one's risk of having kidney stones. It can be prevented if the patient drinks plenty of water and does not let themselves get dehydrated and they take the calcium supplements recommended by the doctor.

After reading that I knew exactly where I went wrong. It's not always easy to get in enough water after the bypass. I'm 8 months out and I still have a tough time. I need to start forcing down more and taking my supplements more regularly.

I haven't passed the stone yet, as far as I can tell, so I'm not sure what happens from here. I actually have been feeling fine. I will probably still make an appointment to follow up with the doctor to see if anything else needs to be done. I definately don't want to go through that kind of pain again.

Here's a hint, in case this happens to you. My doctor told me that if I put my pain meds in the freezer, they would be good for life. He said if I ever run into this type of situation again, I could take a pill and would not be in such misery waiting to be seen.

I'm interested in hearing from other Gastric Bypass patients. Have any of you struggled with stones? What was your experience?

KIDNE

2010-05-10T16:17:00.001-07:00

Since My Last Post

2010-04-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

I am very close to losing that 150 pound total. As exciting as it is, I haven't had the motivation to leap over the hurtle. Everyone says they can see a recent difference. I can not. I see the number on the scale and freak out. I've stopped weighing myself as often because I can't stand the disapointment. I have been the same weight, maybe minus 2 pounds for about 3 weeks now. It's not so much that I am upset about that, it's that I am upset with myself. I have gotten very lenient with myself and what I've been doing.

I've decided that I will become accountable to my readers, right here and right now. I feel that if I outline my intentions, it will be easier to follow them. I will blog again soon to let you know how I've done with these goals.

I. I will start taking my vitamins again, daily. I have not been taking them faithfully. I noticed that the weight moves more quickly when I take them on a regualr basis. Maybe that's all in my head.

II. I will drink more water. Now that my stomach has stretched I eat more than I used to if I'm not drinking enough water.

III. I will join Curves(c) tomorrow to jump start my metabolism and build strength and muscle in order to burn more fat and weight. I must confess that I have not been sucessful at keeping the motivation to exercise. I've been to Curves(c) before and I have had great success. I could really use some toning right about now too. (I'm considering also getting a beginners Yoga DVD for that.)

I'm going to start there and then move on to the next phase when I'm ready.

Please share. Is there something you're struggling with after the surgery or do you have questions? You can either share here or send me an e-mail on Facebook to Missy Cantlin Bell.

Thanks for following!!

Missy

The Struggle Begins

2010-03-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

Watching what I eat is becoming increasingly difficult. I do not get the dumping syndrome that a lot of people who have this surgery talk about. Let me rephrase, I do not get it as severely as others. I am able to eat chocolate and some fried foods, which I have deemed a curse.

I am now responsible for the rest of the weight I have to lose. The surgery has helped me this far and my appetite is not what it used to be but from here forward I really have to watch what I eat and make the best choices for myself. It is becoming more difficult.

I have found that when extreme stress takes over, I still have to watch for my old bad habits. I crave the wrong foods and on occasion have a "who cares" attitude. I know I can't do that. I've come too far. I do have to say, in my own defense, that compared to what I used to do, I am able to catch this type of behavior immediately. If I have acted on a bad habit or craving, I am able to turn it around quickly by making healthier choices for the next meal or snack. It has been easier to "forgive myself" during these times as well. My cravings aren't leading to an entire pizza or 3 scoop ice cream sundaes with the works. For example, today, the family wanted Burger King for dinner. I feel like I "blew it," because I had 3/4 of a $1 Spicy Sandwich with just cheese and 1/2 of a small fry. That wouldn't have been so bad if I didn't add one of their cookies and eat it later when I got home. I used to get the Double Burger with cheese and bacon with a Large fry and Super huge Diet Coke. That only held me for a couple of hours.

On the other hand, I have started losing again. I don't think I eat enough yet to make a 1200 calorie diet most days, so my weight loss stalls on occasion, sometimes for a month or so. My body acts as if it is in starvation mode. My total loss since June is 143 pounds, 113 of that being since the surgery in August 2009.

I wanted to make this post because I know some of you are considering the surgery. I don't want you to think that Gastric Bypass is a quick fix. You will still have struggles. Even naturally thin people struggle with food choices. It's natural. And keep in mind that not everyone gets severe dumping syndrome. I had it in the beginning but I am now able to have a piece of pizza, 1/2 of a small cheeseburger, a small dose of chocolate on occasion without getting sick. If I go outside of my small portion range though, it's all over. My body rebels.

This mission I'm on to lose weight, keep it off and make healthy choices from here forward will be a lifetime struggle. I feel that I am up for the challenge but may need help on occasion. One of the most important things I have learned to do is strategize. If I am at the table and I know I have eaten enough food, but also feel the urge to pick, I ask for my family to remove the food from the table. I realize that if I do it, I will steal another bite, lick or taste. If it is out of the way and someone else removes it, the temptation is gone. Another thing I've done is remind people that I cannot eat certain things. People seem to forget after a while for whatever reason and they start offering sweets to you. If you feel you are vulnerable, remind people that you would rather that they didn't offer those types of foods. You can simply explain that you'd rather not be aware they are even around. Simply removing the temptation can be very helpful. "Out of site, out of mind."

The above can help whether you have had surgery or not. The struggle will always be there but you can make it easier on yourself. Removing temptation or removing yourself from it's vicinity is the best option for success. Drink plenty of water and limit the carbs.

Something to thing about is that Easter is right around the corner. Most people who celebrate Easter do so with a basket of candy. If candy is a major downfall for you and your children, why not change things up a bit and fill the basket with 1 chocolate Easter Bunny and the rest with toys. My boys are older and absolutely love finding gift cards to buy a new video game or Xbox points. Think of how much happier they would be. You would be happier too. They wouldn't be loaded with sugar for a week and have to deal with the misbehaving that goes along with that. For yourself, what about a gift certificate to a spa, a new outfit, or if funds are tight, how about treating you and a friend to a movie? The possibilities are endless. In my house, we have even resorted to fruit baskets. That's always a great treat too.

I raise my glass of water to yours as a toast to our continued success.

Happy Easter and Best Wishes,
Missy Cantlin Bell

Dehydration and Lack of Nutrients

2010-02-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

Last week I caught the flu. I felt horrible, as you can imagine. But then you're sick, you really don't think about anything else except sleeping. It started on a Wednesday night, over night. Except for the times I was out of bed, getting sick, I was in bed sleeping. My room is on the 2nd floor and the kitchen is downstairs. I was too worn out to go down to get anything to drink. Besides, I wasn't very interested in eating or drinking. That was just too much effort. I think about 36 hours went by before I made myself get out of bed and go to work that Friday morning. I still wasn't thrilled with the whole food idea and didn't take in much fluid. After work I went straight home to bed.

Saturday arrived quickly. I felt pretty well all day Saturday and was back to eating and drinking as usual. Saturday night I was scheduled to DJ at the local skating rink. About 1.5 hours into the session I started feeling a little light headed. I rested for a few minutes and felt better. About 30 minutes later, the feeling came on again. I started to lose my hearing. That's saying something when you cannot hear music while inside a skating rink. I called for my manager and by the time he turned around to get a chair for me, I had lost my sight and slid down the wall I was leaning against. I wasn't out long, seconds he said actually, but I was a little disoriented when I came to, and embarrassed to say the least.

An ambulance came to check my sugar levels and vital signs. My blood pressure was a little off. They suggested I make the trip to the ER. I didn't want to pay for the ambulance ride so I finished my 20 minutes of work and waited for my husband to pick me and my 16 year old up.

The trip to the ER was interesting. My blood pressure dropped to 92/45. They ran a CAT scan on my head and it didn't show anything out of the ordinary, thankfully. They gave me some water and Tylenol for my headache. The EKG they ran came back fine as well. The doctor stated it was due to previous dehydration and lack of certain nutrients.

The experience was certainly scary. I've learned from it. It is not healthy to go without food and water on a usual basis but for someone who has had the Gastric Bypass surgery it is even more important to be sure that you focus on these things, especially when you are ill. It is much easier for dehydration to set in.

If you start feeling dizzy or disoriented, seek medical attention. You do not want to end up passing out.

If you've had any experiences like this after surgery or negative side affects, please share them by posting below.

6 Months Post Surgical / Bloodwork Results

2010-01-30T16:32:00.000-08:00

I went back to the doctor's this past Wednesday. I've been extremely tired for the past few weeks and I wanted to be sure that it wasn't anything that was post surgically related. I was concerned about low iron and B12 levels and dehydration.

My blood work all came back normal. My blood cells are the normal size, my body is absorbing enough iron and B12 and I am not dehydrated. I was thrilled to say the least. So many people have deficiencies after surgery because our bodies now have a shorter digestive tract and less nutrition is absorbed. I was fortunate and I have been counting my blessings ever since.

My total weight loss since a month before the surgery is 130. Next week will mark my 6th month out of surgery. It has been a steady pound or two loss for a few weeks now. I've been roller skating once a week and moving more at home. I've started working on the weekends on my feet, which will also help.

I am interested in other people's stories who have had the surgery. I would love for you to share your successes and issues after the suregery. If you have a story to tell, please share it here so that others who are considering the surgery can make an informed decision.

Thank you for your time.

Missy Bell

5 1/2 Months after Gastric Bypass Surgery

2010-01-21T15:56:00.000-08:00

Thanks for supporting my blog site! I'm glad you've decided to come back for a visit. It has been 5 1/2 months since the surgery. A lot has changed since that day.

As I look back on who I was then and who I am now, I can start to see definite changes. The most noticeable change of course is the way I look. I've been called "skinny," "Skinny Minnie," and I've been told I'm melting and disappearing. As much as I appreciate the compliments and I value those people's opinions, I know I have a long road ahead of me. I don't feel thin by any means. But I guess in comparison to what I was, it's drastic. I have lost 31% of myself. That's almost 1/3 of what I used to be! Looking at it that way is a bit exciting.

I want to lose another 120. The weight loss has slowed down considerably. I'm not complaining, don't get me wrong. I do get discouraged though. It's not easy to eat as little as I do and see the scale stay about the same day in and day out for weeks on end. I've hit another plateau.

I've gone back to roller skating at least once a week for a couple of hours. That seems to help with a pound here or there. I think my body gets into starvation mode and doesn't want to let go of the weight. Everyone says they still see changes in my shape weekly though.

I've noticed that I don't mind going out as much. I enjoy spending time with people now. I was always too self conscious and worried about what other people thought to actually enjoy myself. I can actually say that I enjoy myself now. I don't have as many inhibitions.

People treat me differently now. I feel like I am more visible. People seemed to look through me or past me before when I was much heavier, as though I didn't exist. I used to notice that a few of my friends would not even hear me when I talked sometimes, and I am NOT quiet. It was frustrating. Maybe it was my perception because I had a low self worth and that is how I thought others saw me. I have much more confidence now.

I'm grateful for the changes this surgery has brought and I look forward to the future more, now that I believe I have one.

In the same breath, I haven't been feeling very well the past 2 weeks. I've been exhausted daily. I'm sleeping well. I don't wake up like I used to in the middle of the night and I think my sleep apnea is gone. I don't know what is causing it. So I went to the doctor's after work yesterday to have some blood drawn. I go back to see my doctor next week. My only concerns would be slight anemia from not enough iron or mild dehydration from not enough water. I'm hoping it's neither. I'll just have to wait until next week to find out. If it's something serious I'm sure they will call.

I joined "The Biggest Loser Contest" at work. I'll keep you posted on my progress. The contest is by floor so I'm really rooting for us. We have a good group of people so I know we stand a chance.

Have you ever joined something like that? How did it go? Did it help you stay motivated? I would love people to start sharing their experiences here with weight issues or perceptions of weight in society.

If you're considering the surgery and you would like to know more than what you've read here, feel free to post and I will respond.

Missy

Old Habits Die Hard

2010-01-02T20:43:00.000-08:00

I can relate to this saying. When I think things are going very well, along comes the major stress and I completely fall apart.

I have done well so far since the Gastric Bypass surgery, with a total weight loss of about 120 pounds since June. My clothes fit better, I have more energy and the mere thought of walking somewhere, even from my car into a store, does not consume my every emotion. This holiday season I found that I was walking everywhere and for long periods of time and would not even realize I was doing it until I returned to the car.

The holidays arrived and I was feeling very good about the way I was able to handle the stress to food ratio. Then the major stress hit. I lost an old friend in a tragic event and when one of my relatives came home for Christmas, he made plans for his life that did not include his family. These events took over my thoughts and I found myself heading for the closest comfort foods I could find. My hand was dipping into the bag of chocolates left over from a New Year's celebration. What was I doing? This went on for a full 48 hours. I feel like my stomach has expanded, my mood is taking a ride in the back, whipping car of a roller coaster and my self esteem has plummeted. This is all, no doubt due mostly to the high amount of carbohydrates I've loaded into my system in search of comfort and to the thoughts that so negatively affected my weight in the past.

Fortunately, I have recognized my old behaviors quickly and resolved to change them. I cannot let stress and the actions of others affect my goals. The food I am "using" is not comforting me. It is hindering my progress and sending me into a downward spiral. This is the same unconscious eating that brought me to my pre-surgical weight.

I still want to lose another 115 pounds. I am well aware that this is not the way to achieve that goal. Nor do I want to become a statistic-the girl people refer to when they discuss failed Gastric Bypass Surgeries. I am determined to do this for ME.

I am back to the positive thinking and I will be taking action from here forward to get back on track. I bought a blender today and will be getting back to basics by making the Whey Protein shakes that I started on. I also bought yogurt to add to the protein balance.

I will be installing my exercise equipment I received as a gift for Christmas and I will start with that as well.

I will continue to watch for these habits and in the future, all trigger food will be removed from the home when stress begins.

Old habits die hard, but I must be stronger than they are if I wish to banish them for good.

Do you have struggles you want to discuss? Please post below and I will respond. Also, please become a "follower" of my blog to receive updates.

Malnutrition and the Essential Nutrients Needed to Avoid it

2009-11-02T17:18:00.000-08:00

Malnutrition and the Essential Nutrients Needed to Avoid it
By Missy Bell
November 2, 2009

Malnutrition

I have always known that my diet was unhealthy. Diet, ha, if you want to call it that. It was a mesh of high fat and high sugar foods. I ate whatever I wanted and I have to say, that 99% of the time it was food that just tasted good. I never cared if it had nutritional value. Pizza, that has nutritional value, right? It has tomato-based sauce, from your fruit/veggie category, cheese from the dairy slice of the pyramid, the crust comes from the bread food group, and sausage or pepperoni, well, that’s obviously the meat category. So it must be good for me. If this is true, the same must apply to the cheese burger if it has tomato or catsup on it.

Let’s stop lying to ourselves. We lie to ourselves so that we may enjoy our favorite foods with less guilt. Even if our bodies do not show a gain, it will eventually show signs of malnutrition if we continue to consume high quantities of these foods on a regular basis.

What does malnutrition look like? When I asked myself that question, I immediately thought of a third world country where they do not get enough to eat daily, weekly, monthly, even on a yearly basis. It just didn’t occur to me that I could be malnourished. Why not? I guess I figured that with all the food I was putting into my body on a daily basis, I must be getting enough nutrients. Not true.

Malnutrition may not present itself in the form of symptoms. Therefore, you should be sure that you are getting enough of the “essential” vitamins and nutrients you need on a daily basis. For those who have had Gastric Bypass Surgery, it is VERY essential that you follow your nutritional guidelines for supplements, such as Calcium and Vitamin D, B12 and Iron as well as a multivitamin. The best form to consume is liquid or chewable since they both absorb quickly and more efficiently. Since the surgery, your body has less of a digestion tract. A good part of your intestines are bypassed, causing your food to travel through your body faster and have less time to deposit nutrients on it’s way through.

Malnutrition can occur from not getting enough of just one nutrient. It can also occur from not getting enough food. According to an online article, “Malnutrition, What to Look For,” at ,http://huntingtondisease.tripod.com/swallowing/id62.html, the following is what the doctor looks for when diagnosing malnutrition…“The doctor or clinic will weigh patients and measure their height and skin fold thickness. If these simple procedures identify an adult who is grossly underweight or stunted, a full physical examination should be performed. The doctor or nurse will check for signs of water retention, changes in skin and hair, liver enlargement and abdominal swelling. The doctor will also take a blood sample and request a number of biochemical tests to identify protein, vitamin and mineral deficiencies.” If you are concerned about malnutrition and need more information about the signs, please visit the site listed above for further information.

What nutrients are essential?

The most essential of nutrients for the human body include; water, protein, vitamins, minerals, oils, fats and carbohydrates.

Water: An adult’s body weight is basically made up of 60% water. Water has a great deal of benefits, especially for dieters. It assists in so many biochemical functions. It helps break down excess fat and assists in carrying waste out of the body, carrying nutrients through the body and regulating the body’s temperature, to name a few benefits. Not drinking enough water can cause you to be dehydrated, retain water, and weaken your bones. Drinking more water can also help you bust through a weight loss plateau and curb hunger that can actually be thirst disguising itself as hunger and boost your metabolism. Here’s one I didn’t know, it helps the skin to not sag as much after weight loss and helps the skin look younger and healthier.

If you are one who does not like to drink water, there are many ways to get it in. There are many ways to spruce up the taste of water, such as powders, Vitamin Waters, Gatorades, juices, etc. Did you know that if you consume fruit, most fruit contains a great percentage of water?

We have been told 8-10 glasses of water a day is about normal. But if you are overweight, you should be drinking 1 extra glass for every 25 pounds of excess fat you carry. The best way to get water in is to have it with you at all times. Drink at least 8 ounces every hour. If you are a gastric bypass patient, be sure not to drink 30 minutes before you plan to eat and not 30 minutes after. This will give your body enough room for other nutrients.

Protein: According to WebMD, “Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. Hair and nails are mostly made of protein. Your body uses protein to build and repair tissues. You also use protein to make enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals. Protein is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood.”

The site also state that recommended servings are as follows: “Teenage boys and active men can get all the protein they need from three daily servings for a total of seven ounces. For children age 2 to 6, most women, and some older people, the government recommends two daily servings for a total of five ounces. For older children, teen girls, active women, and most men, the guidelines give the nod to two daily servings for a total of six ounces.” Any more than this is too much and it is a myth that eating more builds muscle. (For more information on the health risks of high protein diets, visit, http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/guide/benefits-protein.)

Your body does not carry a store of protein so it needs to be replaced daily. It is recommended that you stay away from processed meats such as sausage, hot dogs or deli meats. Consuming these over long periods of time may cause health risks. The best types to focus on would be fish, poultry, beans, nuts, soy, legumes and whole grains.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals: There is a great deal to cover under this category. It is important that you educate yourself on what each of the vitamins and minerals benefit. You may have a certain health issue that you were unaware was related to a deficiency. A great article to review for this information can be found at http://www.crnusa.org/benpdfs/CRN012benefits_recs.pdf. Be sure if you are on any kind of special diet that excludes certain kinds of foods, that you notify your doctor to find out what you should be replacing in your diet. It is important to check with a doctor because it is possible to overdose on some. Fat soluble vitamins and minerals can cause health issues if your intake is too high.

Oils: There are four types of fats; saturated fatty acids, trans fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The two that are better for you are the unsaturated fats.

When cooking, it is better for you to replace corn oil with olive oil for example. Olive oil may help with ulcers and prevent colon cancer.

Flaxseed oils is high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It is also a great source of protein, potassium and beta carotene. It should be used cold, not heated and is said to be good on salads.

Nut oils are low in saturated fats as well.

Fats: Believe it or not, fat is an essential source of nutrition for the body. Fat has several benefits. It helps fill you and it insulates your body, providing support and cushion for the organs. Anything more than 30% of your total daily calories in fat is too much. Foods that are sources of good fats include, milk, eggs, nuts, meat, poultry and fish. Within that 30%, no more than 10% should be from trans fats and saturated fats as these fats can contribute to risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

Fats tend to stick with you longer and a moderate amount daily could assist in weight loss. It takes longer for your body to digest fats, leaving less room in your stomach over a longer period of time.

Carbohydrates: Many people have gravitated toward a low carb diet over the past few years. Too much can cause weight gain. But, like other foods we think are bad for us, they are good in moderation, even necessary.

There are many benefits of carbohydrates. Carbs provide the body with easily obtained energy from the glucose, which is released much faster than the glucose in protein, The brain relies on the glucose from carbs in order to function properly. Diets that are low in this nutrient can cause delayed brain function over a period of time.

When the body needs energy, it looks to glucose first from carbs. If there isn’t any, it will look for protein’s glucose, then it will burn protein from the tissue in your muscles. You don’t want to lose muscle tissue.

High GI (glycemic index) carbs can cause a rapid rise in blood sugar. This is not good for diabetics and can also cause more food cravings and appetite swings. Having fiber can slow down this breakdown and level off your sugar levels. Choose those with a low GI index. These types can even improve diabetes management and blood cholesterol levels. According to the Official Website of the Glycemic Index and GI Database at http://www.glycemicindex.com/, the following changes in your diet can make a world of difference in your health:

1. Change your breakfast cereals to those which include oats, barley and bran.
2. Use breads with whole grains, stone ground flour and sour dough.
3. Reduce the amount of potatoes you eat.
4. Enjoy all other types of fruits and vegetables.
5. Use Basmati or Doongara rice.
6. Enjoy pasta, noodles, quinoa.
7. Eat plenty of salad vegetables with a vinaigrette dressing.

Remember the importance of nutrients daily in order to stay healthy. I encourage you to research more about which vitamins are best and what each vitamin does. Consult your doctor before taking a lot of vitamins. Too much of just about anything is not good for you.

Stay hydrated and well nourished. Your body will thank you. If you want to research further, please use the links below.

Credits and References:
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20060923132835AAmEq6Q
http://www.livingnutrition.com
http://www.linksnorth.com/nutrition/nutrients.html
http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/guide/benefits-protein
http://www.crnusa.org/benpdfs/CRN012benefits_recs.pdf
http://kidshealth.org/teen/food_fitness/nutrition/vitamins_minerals.html#
http://nurse-practitioners.advanceweb.com/sharedresources/advancefornp/resources/DownloadableResources/NP110105_p18Handout.pdf
http://weightloss.about.com/od/nutrition/a/blfatfacts.htm
http://weightloss.about.com/od/nutrition/a/aa043007a.htm
http://www.carbs-information.com/carbohydrates-benefits.htm
http://www.glycemicindex.com/

Why I Have Always Hated Haloween

2009-10-31T16:02:00.001-07:00

It's Halloween night. I have to say that it's never been my favorite night. I was never really creative with costumes so I always felt stressed trying to come up with something. Then there was the candy. I would take the kids around, whatever neighborhood we were going to that year. I hated that part too because, being an inactive adult, it was too much to think about walking for an hour and a half and trying to keep up with two energetic boys.

After the walking came to an end, it was time to sort through the candy and figure out what was consumable and what is possibly dangerous and heading for the trash. Chocolate was my weakness so of course I would steal a few pieces from the boys. Then, in the days to come, I would help myself to the several pounds of candy they received for being so cute. After all, I was the one who took them around, right? They won't notice a few pieces missing (several times a day.) The candy never really lasted too long in our house. I always spent the first week of November feeling guilty about my consumption, craving more, seeking Halloween candy on sale at the stores and consuming more.

Now do you understand why I hate Halloween? Telling this story is humiliating. Most of the time the candy was eaten in private, so, no one really knows how I felt or what I did. I'm not proud of it. But I'm sure, beyond doubt, that I am not the only one who has done it. As a matter of fact, there are some that have done this tonight. Thankfully, that is over for me. I waited until the last minute to get the candy. Actually, there were kids approaching the house with their "Trick or Treats" as I was heading to the store. They had candy on sale when I got there. $1.50 a bag for my favorite, Reece's Peanut Butter Cups. I bought a few bags and made it home in time to pass the candy out. I saved some for the boys since they didn't go out this year. I have had 1/2 of a RPB cup. I don't even want more than that. It is a great feeling to want to give the rest away.

I don't know what has changed the desire for the chocolate, or what has given me the willpower. I do not have the dumping syndrome associated with the Gastric Bypass surgery, so by all rights I can eat what I want at this point. But I don't want it. If I could pass along the solution I would. If you struggle with these things as I did, I can only suggest to be strong. Eating large amounts of candy, for me, would make me crave more. I don't want that. It is more important to me to have more nutrition than crap since my stomach doesn't hold as much.

Again, I say, I am grateful for the Gastric Bypass surgery and what it has done for me, even though I have struggled with it. I would do it again and again.

So now you understand why I have always hated Halloween.

Week 13 after Gastric Bypass- I Know, It's Been a While!

2009-10-20T15:07:00.001-07:00

It has been a crazy roller coaster ride the past few weeks. I have been reminded by several people (who really need to sign up for blog updates... please) that it has been a long time since I have blogged. I apologize. I've done this in the past and it is something I have to work on about myself. When I get overwhelmed, I shut down and do nothing. There were several times I wanted to blog but had too much to say and not enough time and I didn't know where to start because I wanted to tell everything. So now, I am able to summarize, but that's all you'll get. I short changed you and I'm sorry. I'll work on that. But for now, you've got me.

Some things I am about to share are embarrassing for me, but I have always been, pretty much, an open book with things in my life if I feel they can help someone else. So, if you find yourself judging me for what you're reading, remember, there are other people who struggle with these issues on a daily basis, and for some people, they see no way out. I was just fortunate enough to follow through with one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself - Gastric Bypass Surgery. If you know anyone who is even thinking about gastric bypass surgery, please pass along this blog link. If they have questions, I am available. I've lived this for so long, that I really don't mind sharing any of it. It could, in all honesty, save a life. I believe it did for me.

The first 6 weeks after GAstric Bypass surgery were the hardest. I was in pain, had large incisions that I had doubts would heal, could hardly drink anything, in constant fear of dehydration and malnutrition, and I was missing food, fearing I'd never be able to eat again.

I had two trips to the ER, one for 11 hours and one for 14 hours, both with severe abdominal pain, 8's on a scale of 1-10, requiring CAT scans, both of which came back without explanation for the pain. I was told by my Gastric Bypass Surgeon that everything looked to be healing perfectly and that my body was where it was supposed to be at 6 weeks out but he wanted to be sure there wasn't something wrong with the gallbladder. Most of the time in the first 6 weeks after the Gastric Bypass, in addition to the pain, it felt like when I drank fluids, it was all rushing in my body into a funnel. It would flow fine until it reached the narrow ending then it was a fight to get into my stomach. There's no other way to describe it. There were times I didn't want to bother with anything.

After the second trip to the ER, the Gastric Bypass Surgeon requested a follow-up. I returned to him for an upper endoscopy. They placed a tube with a camera down my throat to view my insides. He found there was errosion that could be causing the pain. He also had a suspicion that I have developed a lactose intellerance. Perfect. Dairy happens to be one of my favorite foods.

I haven't had the pain since I've gone to eating real food, but I also haven't been drinking large quantities of milk in a day either, whereas before, that's all I could have.

After the Gastric Bypass, when I was able to introduce foods, I did it slowly, as suggested. I did not eat unless I had stopped drinking within the past 30 minutes. After a week or so of this, I started with the dumping syndrome. I would get excited that I could actually have real food again and I would enjoy the taste so much that I would eat faster than I should have and end up eating too much, which would sometimes literally be no more than 5 bites of anything. When the last of it would finally reach my stomach, there was no room left for it and it would find it's way back out. It wasn't pleasant. There was one week where I couldn't get anything right. Even a few bites was too much and it would come back up. I started to understand belemia. Again, not where I wanted to be.

This is week 13 since the Gastric Bypass. I have only had a full week free from being sick from food (I had a severe cold, but I'm fine.) I haven't been in pain at all. The only high fat food I've really eaten is pizza. I can eat between 3/4 of a slice to most of a slice, but not all. I make it a rule that I give up eating anything after 30 minutes that I cannot finish in that time period. If I'm short on time, like lunches at work and I feel rushed to eat, I try to remember that it's not a race and I don't have to eat all of it. Sometimes I can finish a half a sandwich with a piece of ham and a piece of cheese, other times it's too much. I stop halfway and see how I feel in a little while. Like any normal person, it depends on the day what will fill me. There are probably a few things I will always stay away from. I have a fear of fried chicken. It's just one thing that my body doesn't digest. At least, it didn't in the beginning and well, why bother, right?

We have a cafeteria at work. Before the Gastric Bypass Surgery, I used to choose whatever I wanted. I still could. The difference is that my choices are better, and smaller. If I go for breakfast I keep the need for protein in mind and although those nicely laid out slices of banana loaf look so delicious (and portioned for 3), I head for a slice of wheat toast, toast 1/2 with peanut butter and eat only 3/4 of the slice. Sometimes I'll get an egg substitute with a piece of bacon. A typical breakfast before Gastric Bypass, I am embarrassed to say, was a drive through the local McDonalds for a breakfast sandwich and hasbrown. The problem started getting worse with their 2 for $3 breakfast sandwich meals. I would forego the hashbrown and eat 2 sandwiches and wash it down with a large Diet Coke. If I went to a sit down breakfast, I used to look at the menu and actually wish there were bigger meals. I could eat 3 pancakes, 3 eggs, 4 pieces of meat, and home fries, always with two Diet Coke refills and be hungry a few hours later. It makes me laugh now. I went to the same place the other day and ordered 2 egg substitutes, omlet style with cheese and 2 sausages with toast. I ate 3/4 piece of toast and 4 bites of the "omlet." My thinking has changed. Now, the menu items don't come with small enough combos. What I would give for a menu that offered my perfect breakfast combo... 1/2 egg, 1/2 sausage, 2 home fries and 2 bites of a pancake or toast. I have had to ask for a manager at places to allow me to eat from the kids menu. I even share with my son sometimes. I am embarrassed to say that I used to eat my own meal AND pick from his plate from what he didn't eat.

Since I'm being so candid, I may as well go further and talk about how I used to eat at other meals before the Gastric Bypass Surgery. A lunch time trip to the cafe could include a number of delicious options. I had several favorites. Alfredo pasta with sausage and a "piece" of garlic bread the size of 1/4 a sub roll, or 2 pieces of pizza (1/3 of a pizza, and only because I knew if I had any more I would feel too guilty walking through the line, because believe me, I have finished a large pizza before,) or a double bacon cheese burger with curley fries, were my 3 favorite choices. You would never see me without a large Diet Coke. I usually could also fit in a piece of cake, or, my favorite, they have a pudding cup, which holds about 2 cups, that was layered with pieces of chocolate cake and whip topping. (Hope I'm not making anyone hungry, blah!) I would then go back in two hours for a vending snack. "Holy Crap!!" I said it for you. When's dinner? That would be my next thought. And I could eat a full dinner too. I thought about food so often that it made me cranky if I had to wait too long or even if I didn't get what I wanted.

Did you know that too many carbs make you crave MORE? It can also cause depression. It was a never ending cycle. I wanted to eat constantly.

So, back to how things have changed since the Gastric Bypass Surgery. Everyone throws it out there, that saying all people who have dieted have heard... "It's a Life Style Change." It would be a good book title I suppose, but it is the truth. My style of life has changed. This will be my third week of really starting to exercise and I can't say I'm close to full-throttle. For those who don't know me, I spent my teen-aged years skating and working at a local roller rink. I'm still DJing there on occassion after 24 years but I haven't really skated in 4 years. Back in May I tried. A few of my friends got together and I tried my skates on. It was like trying to stuff sausages back into their natural casings. They just wouldn't fit. My ankles and feet were too swollen and fat. I tried a few weeks after surgery, in September. I still couldn't skate. I could fit into the skates better, but I could only make it around the rink three times. My shins were on fire and I still didn't have enough energy. Then I tried again in the beginning of October. The skates fit perfectly, and I can handle skating for 20-30 minutes at a time. I'm up to 2 times a week and each time I have tried to build up some stamina and speed. I have a lot further to go to be happy about it, but I've made great progress.

You've told us everything but what we want to know, "how much weight have you lost?" Really? Ok, that's another reason why I haven't written lately. Who wants to read a blog by someone who had weight loss surgery/Gastric Bypass who doesn't really want to talk about how much she's lost because she feels like a failure? Truthfully? I feel like I have been at a stand still for 6 weeks or more. I really haven't and my weight loss is shocking over all, but the point is... Here I am eating less than most toddlers eat in a day and I am not melting like I thought I would. I know, "break out the violins, she's got it rough." (Don't kill me when you see my total so far.) But I actually think I slowed down because I just can't drink enough water to flush everything out and my body is consuming so little that it was in starvation mode for a while. It's okay. I've forgiven it. I lost 10 this week, so I'm not feeling like I've failed. Here's a breakdown of what I've lost...

I headed into surgery with a 30 pound weight loss. Here is what happened after the surgery...

Day/Week Total to date (after surgery)

Day 8.................10 pounds
Day 11...............22 pounds (yes, 12 in 3 days)
Day 15...............29 pounds
5 wks, 4 days...40 pounds (wow, 11 pounds in 3 weeks, most would be grateful)
12 weeks..........50 pounds (see why I haven't posted anything here)
13 weeks...........61 pounds
====================

Yeah, I am seriously, NOT complaining about losing a total of 91 pounds in 4 months! I apologize if that's what it seemed like I was doing. To do that would be like slapping anyone in the face who has ever dieted. I was just thinking that with such a huge start that it would continue as well. I lost 20 pounds in 10 weeks and I am grateful. My body has had a jump start with the exercise, which I should have started a long time ago, but, I was struggling at times with the pain so I'll cut myself a small break there. The activity will increase each week as I gain strength and I will try new things. My clothes are so loose. But every time I buy another size down, I out grow them in the right direction. I can't yet fit into the clothes that were given to me, but thankfully, everyone at work is understanding.

I can't wait to see where I'll be by Christmas (11 weeks from now.) As of now I am 1/3 of the way to an "ideal weight" for my height. This summer should be the best summer of my adult life.

I promise I will report back to you before then. Until I do, make a promise to yourself to do at least 1 think a day to change your bad habits. One less soda, a weigh-in, one less trip through the drive-thru, one less hand-reach toward a family member's left overs, or add 20 minutes of activity today. Whatever it takes. This is not easy. This choice did not come lightly and without serious effort before hand with many failures. Each day is a reminder of where I have been and where many others are and that it wouldn't take much to get back to that place. But I'm not going back there. Come with me. See you on the other side.............

December 08 October 09

Missy

Dietary Stages After the Gastric Bypass

2009-08-22T14:29:00.000-07:00

I had my surgery 18 days ago, which feels like almost a lifetime when you're really not eating. I was looking ahead to see what will most likely be approved for food for me to eat as of Tuesday, which is when my appointment with my nutritionsist is. First, let;s go over what is allowed when a patient first comes home from surgery. The following list was provided by UMasss Memorial in Worcester and could vary in different parts of the US depending on the program you are on. This is just what you may be able to expect. ALWAYS follow what your doctor gives for orders and never vary.

4 Ounces of a sugar free nutritional supplement every 2 hours, 8 times a day. (Carnation Instant Breakfast - No Sugar Added is recommended) with milk.

Water

Sugar Free Beverages such as Crystal Light or Sugar Free Kool-Aid

Coffee or Tea (preferrably decaf)

Bouilllon or broth (no salt added is best)

"Flat" diet soda (preferrably decaf)

Tomato or V-8 Juice

Sugar Free Popcicles (less than 20 calories each, limit 2 per day)

Fruit Juice without added sugar (no more than 4 ounces per serving with a total of 8 ounces per day.)

Gatorade (no more than 8 ouunces per day)

Sugar Free gelatin

I have been

2 Weeks After Surgery

2009-08-19T18:54:00.000-07:00

Last night marked two weeks after surgery. Today I weighed in 30 pounds less than I did 2 weeks ago.

I had my doctor's appointment today. Actually, I saw the Nurse Practitioner. She removed my staples, thank God. She went over a few questions about how I was feeling and stated that everything was looking good. My one concern, infection in the largest incision, did not occur. It was still open, by that, I mean, the incision was very deep and that was still evident by the gap between my skin. It is not fully closed. She put some steri tape on it, which should stay on there for 1 week and that should help close it. She advised that if I used cream on the other scars it would help to soften the skin and clear up the scar tissue.

I have been cleared to go to the beach and in the water for short periods, but I cannot swim in pools for another week until that one incision is closed completely. The reason for that is the high concentration of bacteria in pools is too high. The ocean is fine because the water is moving and dissipating the bacteria and is not in such a high concentration in one area. The heat wave is over now and there is a hurricane coming up the coast this weekend so the beach is out. Next week will be in the high 70's only so we may have to forget that for this year unfortunately.

I am looking forward to a great night sleep tonight without the staples in. I am currently lying on my side as I type this. I feel much more comfortable.

I visited work today. I originally had 4-6 weeks approved for recovery. The nurse said I was doing well and as long as I can increase my protein grams per day from 30 up to 40 I shouldn't be as tired and can go back to work as early as next week. My mother thinks I'm crazy because I have all that time approved, but I'm not doing anything with my time at home. At least if I start out early with half days it won't be such a shock to my system when I go back full time. I'm just lucky I like my job. I wouldn't recommend that everyone do this. If your job is a very stressful one, take the time to take care of yourself and get used to the diet before going back. Some jobs are just too stressful to do both. I am able to drink and have food at my desk so if I need to, I am still able to take care of myself there. Starting off with half days will give me the ability to see where my body is at as well. I am still VERY tired and need to take a nap during the day. This way I will know how much my body can handle as time goes on but still get the rest I need in the beginning.

DON'T OVERDO IT!

I made the mistake of overdoing it yesterday and was worn out by 12. I had run many errands and spent too long registering my son in an overheated high school. By noonish I was drained and my incision was burning. I had spent too much time in the car as well. Sitting in this position had my incision folded into itself and the staples were rubbing against the skin, irritating the area around it. I was exhausted but couldn't sleep, and I didn't feel like drinking anything. It was 96 degrees outside and that was not a good way to be feeling. I knew I needed all the liquid I could get. As a result of this 4 day heat wave, I drank more water than protein, trying to not get dehydrated. This just exhausted my body. It was nice to be able to visit my parent's during this time. They have a fabulous A/C. It was a savior. So was the company. Try not to spend a lot of time alone. Not only is it important to be able to talk with others, but you can also have them remind you to drink if you're struggling with it.

Listen to your body if you have had the surgery. Even if you haven't for that matter. You have to be aware of what you need or you could find yourself in a dangerous situation.

FOOD CRAVINGS

A few days ago I had a food issue. I wanted it. I was near a Subway and they were baking fresh bread. The smell was intoxicating. Of course, after that, I noticed EVERY fast food place for the rest of the day. But what I really wanted was a piece of buttered toast. I have also wanted the end triangle, the first bite of a piece of pizza. No more than that, just that bite. Even though the desire is there, the temptation is not. I am very secure in the fact that after this long, if I tried to eat anything like that, I will become violently ill. No thank you. Nothing is worth that at this point. I had a Tic Tac Bold yesterday and as soon as the taste of peppermint hit my stomach I had to spit it out. It was too powerful and my stomach didn't approve.

I have noticed my bad food habits as well. I have this voice inside that tells me when to stop, or what would be good at a given moment. I didn't realize how many times a day this voice kicks in and how often I had listened to it in the past. If I don't give in to it, it keeps going with the next suggestion like a sabotaging enemy. I just acknowledge it now for what it is and keep going. It's nice to recognize what it is with the tool of the surgery behind me so that I can't give in.

I have one week left before I start eating foods besides the liquid. I'm very nervous about it but I think I will be fine because I am very mindful of what my body can handle. I'm hoping it will be easier to get all the protein in then. A bite or two of chicken sounds like something I could really look forward to.

Surprise Weight Loss

2009-08-15T19:55:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning and got dressed in my usual clothes. I was swimming in them. So I made a trip to my closet and pulled out a bag of clothes that I have not worn in 2 or more years. I couldn't believe that, not only did they fit me, but they were also too big. I was excited to know I have clothes for my new smaller size, but now I still need to go down one more size. All this in 11 days!. I didn't expect things to be going this well.

I went and got weighed the other day, Wednesday and found, that one week out of surgery I had lost 10 pounds. I was impressed. I added that to the 30 I lost before the surgery and was very happy. But today, I was shocked. It is Saturday, just three days later and I have lost 12 more pounds since Wednesday. I was astounded!

I've started noticing encouraging things about my body. I have ankles now, for one, and feet! They have been bloated for so long, holding on to water weight. They are thin now. My face is starting to change. starting to slim down too. My eyes are more prominent now and, as a friend pointed out yesterday, less pain is visible in my eyes. There isn't a part of me that isn't smaller, including my wrists. It's refreshing.

I've said it before, it's not ALL about the weight loss for me. It is about my health and how I feel. As I tell everyone who asks, each day is better. I am no longer taking my antidepressants and I am off my blood pressure medication and my sleeping pills. (I'm not sure if it's too early to be off the sleeping pills though.) I slept on my side last night and actually got more sleep. I woke up with no discomfort. I am still irritated by the staples but they will be gone in a few days.

I am concerned about the heat wave coming up. I can't get dehydrated and with the small amount that I am drinking I really have to stay cool (without being able to swim). Just something to watch.

A friend shared a bit of her story with me the other day. The results from this surgery never seem to amaze me and she is one with another inspiring story. Each story I've heard is so different from the one before. Joy has lost 160 pounds since the middle of December. How truly amazing! I am so truly inspired and proud to have people like Joy to be able to turn to for advice I know I'll need. Thanks Joy, for being there and opening up to me.

The First Week Out of the Hospital

2009-08-14T03:58:00.000-07:00

I have been home from the hospital now for a full week. The first two days were the most difficult but with each passing day it gets easier.

Friday and Saturday were the toughest. I was still in a great deal of pain and it was difficult to move around. I don't like asking for help when it comes to moving on my own but I had to a few times. My husband was here and I had my two teen-aged boys willing to assist as well.

The most difficult thing for me was dealing with guilt. I was struggling with getting in enough liquids and feeling that if I didn't get more in that I would end up dehydrated. I was sipping as often as I could but could only partake of one or two sips at a time. My stomach was upset every time I took more than a sip, which was very frustrating. This led to me becoming emotional about the situation and feeling depressed.

Taking the pain pills was getting to be more of a hassle than something that was helpful. I had to crush them up and they were very hard to swallow with one sip of water so I stopped taking them on Saturday, the day after I got home. I had moderate pain but it was manageable. All other pills need to be crushed up before taken as well. I am taking a chewable vitamin, calcium (Tums), Vitamin B12 and Ranitidine to coat the stomach.

I spoke with the Doctor's office on Monday. As long as I was no longer taking the narcotic pain pills I was allowed to drive but also told to take it easy. I don't recommend planning on going far if you do drive the first week home. It is still very uncomfortable going over bumps. It is nice to know you have the option to go out instead of being couped up in the house for days on end.

There were food obstacles the first week. I know better. I knew I wouldn't eat anything, even taste anything off the diet. I am so afraid of getting very sick. But my husband wasn't thinking and made turkey club sandwiches for himself and the boys one night and fried up the bacon in a pan on the stove. I had to leave the house for a while until it was vented out a bit. I had the recurring image in my head of me standing over the stove one and consuming half od what I cooked. Bacon and sausage are two of my biggest downfalls. I kept dwelling on this image as long as I could smell it.

The second issue was when Mike cooked one of my favorite meals for dinner, pasta with ground sausage and garlic Texas toast. It was the smell that bothered me. I just went upstairs and relaxed up there until the family was done eating.

My old habits have not died yet. Dinner is my hardest time. I still want to ask what is for dinner and look forward to the meal. I also found that when I'm out of the house, my mind tells me to stop for certain foods. It's not a cravings that I have, but a habit that is embedded deep in my subconscious. That's going to take some time to get rid of. It makes me realize why I have failed in the past. Physically not being able to have these foods has obviously made me more aware and I cannot give in to ideas like this or I would end up sick and back in the hospital.

I have woken up hungry in the past few days. It's not that hunger I used to feel where I'm desperately in need of something. If I take a couple sips of water it goes away. I am still on the same diet, Carnation Instant Breakfast - No Sugar Added Drink, chicken broth, Jell-o, water - flavored of unflavored, flat diet cola (which I stay away from) and an occasional Popsicle (I am allowed no more than 2 a day of the 20 calorie or less type.) I does get a bit monotonous but I don't think about it.

I had 5 incisions. They are healing nicely, except for one. I hate my largest incision. It is a bit larger than an inch in length with two staples on one side and three on the other side with a hole in the middle. I'm not sure why they did not staple the middle but it leaks on occasion, especially after I shower. I spoke with the Surgeon about it and he said that is normal. He would have been concerned if it was accompanied by a fever, redness or swelling and I did not have any of those. It is not pleasant to look at though.

I have this weird feeling in the center of my abdomin like there is a incision there with staples. It must be where the new pouch is.

I couldn't stand the not knowing and by Tuesday I made a trip to my primary care physician's office and asked if I could use their scale to weigh myself weekly. Thankfully, they did not have an issue. I have lost 10 pounds in the first week. I was a bit surprised because my body seemed to be in starvation mode, holding on to all the liquid I put into it. My ankles were swollen and I felt bloated. It wasn't until the end of the day that I noticed that I was starting to go to the bathroom every hour or so. I was finally flushing it out.

My stomach feels like it sets differently on my body. I'm not sure how else to explain the feeling. I guess it sort of feels smaller (the outside). It has been in the past two days, (days 9 and 10 after surgery) that I can actually start to see a difference in my body. It is refreshing.

I still do not have a lot of energy because my intake is still not entirely where it should be, but I make sure I more around as much as possible. I want to start walking more today. I have only been walking short distances this past week.

As I mentioned, there are improvements with each day in the level of discomfort, the amount I am able to consume easier and the way I move.

In closing, I would like to mention the gas. With every sip it seems, I have the urge to burp but it doesn't always come up. This makes my stomach uncomfortable and it is bothersome. Moving helps to get that out, but it can be painful at times.

The Surgery and Hospital Stay - 8/4/09 - 8/7/092

2009-08-13T18:14:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday morning, we arrived at the hospital for our 10:45 AM appointment and we were immediately put in a prep room and told that they were already ready for me upstairs in surgery. I said goodbye to Mike and he left with my clothes and shoes.

They wheeled me down a few halls on a bed and into a large open room with curtain separters. It took them several tries to get an i.v. in. They were warned in advance that my veins rolled, and that's exactly what happened. The Surgeon came by as well as each member of the team and introduced themselves to me and asked if I had any questions. It put me at ease a bit.

I was in that room for about 20 minutes while they prepped me for surgery. I remember being wheeled down a few halls and going into an elevator. I don't remember much after the elevator doors opened. I was given anesthesia at some point in the room downstairs but I don't remember. The time was about 11:30am.

At 6:20 PM I caught myself arguing with someone. I was trying to get off the bed to go to the bathroom. I couldn't understand where I was and why this felt real but felt like a dream. I was coming out of anesthesia. It took me a few minutes to understand where I was and what had happened and to completely get my sight back enough to focus on anything. Everyone kept telling me I had just come out of surgery and that I had a catheter in. You can't imagine the releif I felt knowing the surgery actually took place this time.

I was still very groggy when they wheeled me into my room about 30 minutes later. I was told the surgery lasted 4 hours and I was in recovery for 3 and half hours.

I was on a morphine drip which I was in control of. I was able to push a button to release a dose every 6 minutes, which, I was always pushing too soon. The pain was manageable but I was very loopy. This was confirmed later as well, by the guests who were there to visit.

I had four incisions with staples. One was just above my belly button, another about five inches above that, one on the center far right of my stomach, and the last one was about two and a half inches from the top center one, to the left. This was the worst one. It was the largest and I can't remember if there was something there, but it was never stapled all the way. There was a hole in the center of it. I also had a drain tube coming from my left side which was draining blood from the surgerical site. I had a catheter which had been placed in while I had been under anesthesia before the surgery.

After my visitors left I just wanted to sleep. I remember feeling like I had been asleep for hours when a nurse had come in to check my vitals. I had only dozed about 20 minutes. The first night was vey busy. I was checked on often. My morphine bag needed to be changed, the drain tube adn catheter needed draining, my incisions were tended to and redressed, my vitals were taken and my C-PAP machine was hooked up and oxygen was filtered through the mask when I was trying to sleep. I had "boots" on my calves. They were like blood preassure cuffs. They would pump up every couple of seconds, (not as tight as a blood preassure cuff though), one leg at a time to keep the circulation going until I was able to walk. I also had fluids being pumped in my system because I hadn't had anything to drink since Monday night. Needless to say, it was a non-productive night of sleep, just dozing. If I rememeber correctly I was able to have water after I was in my room. A styrophome cup with ice was on my tray table at all times with one once measuring cups from which I sipped only.

In the morning I was able to eat. I wasn't really hungry though. They brought in a one ounce cup of Carnation Instant Breakfast - No Sugar Added Chocolate drink. I had to sip that. It took me a while to get that down. Most of the day was the same as the night before, trying to sleep as much as possible in about 20-40 minute increments. I noticed that my pain had increased a bit and they gave me an additional pain reliever. I was high at that point. I don't know really what I was saying. No one else could understand me very well either from what they said. My voice was also still very horse from the breathing tube that was down my throat during surgery (which I never knew about until later.)

I remember trying to call work. I work in a call center and for the past year and a half I have probably given out our phone number over 150 times in one day. But because I was under so much pain medication, I kept getting a sex line when I dialed our number. It happened twice.

Later in the day I was talking to one of the nurses about being a DJ. I had my laptop there so I could work on my music data base and was getting ready to do so. I told him I'd play him a song. When I tried typing in his request, I couldn't. I tried several times and was not able to find my hand-eye coordination needed to type the proper characters. I was pretty amused but frustrated.

Later in the morning, still the day after the surgery, they had me go for a short walk around the halls to increase circulation. I was able to roll onto my side and push up to get out of bed. It was a bit tough and it did hurt, but with a push of the morphine button I was back on track.

They removed my catheter on Thursday I believe. It was like being 3 again, everyone was praising me for peeing in the potty! There was a plastic bed pan like catcher that fit on the rim on the toilet which meassured how much urine was excreted. This was to be sure I wasn't getting dehydrated.

They started bringing me "meals" on Thursday. They consisted of 1/4 cup of sugar free Jell-o, about 1/2 cup of broth and 4 ounces of the Carnation Instant Breakfast. I never could finish it all before they brought the next meal. It was way too much.

The nurses would scrub my back and they left a basin of soapy water with a wash cloth and towel in order to give myself a sponge bath. That was refreshing. I was able to change into my own pajamas as well, a bit of home. This started on Wednesday. I remember that it took a while but was not as uncomfortable as I imagined it to be. I do have one regret. I did not wash my hair while I was there. There was a sink in the room but it did not occur to me to wash my hair in the sink because my balance wasn't where I'd wanted it to be in order to do that. By the time I left, my hair was embarrassingly greasy.

Here comes the funny part... When they set me up to give myself a sponge bath, they also gavc me a banana boat basin, a cup of water, a small tube of toothpaste and a little toothbrush. Day one was fine. I had no problem handling such an easy daily task. Day 2, however, was a different story. I started brushing my teeth and thought to myself, "Why can't I taste the toothpaste? It's not foaming in my mouth like it usually does. I kept brushing. Then I put more on my toothbrush. Just before putting the tooth brush back into my mouth I looked at the tube. I had brushed my teeth with Vaseline. I felt like a moron. I had to ask for a new toothbrush and water. The staff got a good laugh out of that. Thankfully, I didn't swallow anything, gross.

There was a television in the room that worked but I had found a chanel that had soothing pictures and soothing music. I kept it there most of the time. I didn't have the attention span to watch anything until Thursday because I was just too tired.

On Thursday, the Surgeon came in with his surgical team and went over what I should be looking for and concerned about after my release. I was released on Friday around noon.

2009-08-02T16:44:00.000-07:00

Tonight was my "Last Supper" and I'm regretting it. My stomach is upset from what I ate and I don't blame it. We went as a family to Texas Roadhouse. Their rolls were to die for, well, I shouldn't put it that way. I could have had just rolls and peanuts and been happy, but I ordered a burger too. I can't stand feeling this way.

From here forward I am on liquids only. Tomorrow is the day before the surgery. I am able to have some regular liquids in the morning, but after 12:00 it can only be clear liquids. I'm not worrried about it. I plan on picking up an extra large bottle of water in the morning and refilling it at lunch time. I may also buy a V8 Fusion for breakfast.

It will be a very busy and fast day at work tomorrow as I prepare for someone to take over for me while I'm gone. When I get home I wanted to steam clean the hallway and pack. Depending on what time I have to be at the hospital will force my early or late bead time.

I can't believe it's almost here!

Why? and What is the Surgery About?

2009-07-30T18:23:00.000-07:00

Why am I having this surgery? Some family members were, and still probably are, against me having this surgery. I had trained for and walked the Susan G. Koman Boston 3 Day in 2006 and had lost 70 pounds on my own and walked 30 miles that weekend, with the bulk being in the first day (18 miles). So why can't I do that again, they asked.

I have tried so many times to lose weight. I have been successful many times as well. If I can get in the right mind set for long enough I show great results. The problem is, I always gain it back with extra. This is really wearing on my body. I was lucky until this last weight gain. I found out I have high blood pressure, borderline diabetes, sleep apnea with sleepless nights, depression, anxiety, edema, acid reflux, pain in my joints, dizziness that occurs way too often, back pain, as well as a few other symptoms that I am probably forgetting. I even went for an eye exam and the Doctor found blood spots on my eyes which indicates I have blood spots throughout my body. These can hemorrhage or cause a stroke if my blood pressure gets too high. That's the one that really scared me.

I am only 39. I'm not going to make another 10 if I keep heading in the direction I was going. So my comment was, "yes, there is a slight possibility I could die during surgery or from complications after the surgery. But I feel at least I would have tried to solve the issue instead of waiting to die from one of the above symptoms, which could be any day." I have been motivated to do this for more than a year now. In the past month and a half I have lost 27 pounds on my own. I have already started feeling a difference in my body. But in order to continue, I need a solid tool. Something to keep the weight loss going. This operation will help.

The bypass leaves you with a "pouch" instead of a stomach. The lower part of your lower intestines are made to bypass the upper portion, creating a shorter digestive track. Less calories and nutrients are able to be consumed due to the new pouch being so tiny. It will only hold about a cup of food. For a better explanation of the surgery, visit the Mayo Clinic's page at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gastric-bypass/HQ01465.

There are no averages to really quote on the weight loss that takes place after the surgery because each person is so different. SO I have no idea what to expect, except that my story will be unique to any others. I have heard many success stories and have a few personal friends who have had great success. My realistic goal is to lose 40 pounds before returning to work 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery. I was speaking with a woman yesterday during my pre-surgical appointment who stated that she had lost more than 100 pounds since the surgery and a friend of hers recently lost 88 pounds in 3 months! That's inspirational.

With only about 110 hours left until the surgery takes place, I must tell you that I am very nervous. My thoughts have ranged from "I'll never be able to eat THAT again," to "death is a possibility." Sorry to be so morbid but this is about the truth. The thought has crossed my mind. For all of you who truly know me, I would fight and win, no worries. I have too much to look forward to and live for in my life. I have a loving supportive husband and two wonderful teenagers who I need to watch grow into the wonderful men I see them becoming. I have a wonderful family here and in Pennsylvania as well as friends who are very supportive, encouraging and willing to help me succeed after the surgery.

I am worried, scared, nervous, anxious, and a bit depressed. But more than that, I am excited. I am dedicated to being strong and doing what I need to in order to succeed at this. I am fascinated to get to know the woman who evolves from who I am now. I'm hoping it just intensifies the good parts of my personality. I look forward to the the hills and mountains ahead of me and ask God for the strength to be able to climb them.

Thank you to those who have stuck by me so far and are just as anxious for me as I am for myself. You are truly amazing and inspire me to work my hardest at this. Thank you for your support so far. I look forward to taking this journey with you at my side.

Please sign up to follow this blog to watch for my progress and offer your encouragement.

June 30th - What Happened???

2009-07-29T18:33:00.000-07:00

I woke up the day of the surgery and tried dealing with the insurance company to get to where we needed to be before leaving for surgery.

To make a long story short, Mike's insurance would not cover as secondary if my insurance would not cover due to lack of paperwork. They would only cover as secondary to my insurance if my insurance did not cover the procedure or if my insurance was going to cover it. I had sent the requested paperwork to my insurance 3 times since January and for whatever reason, it was not sufficient and was grounds for denial. I had really just been too fed up to fight with them any more. So when Mike's insurance said yes, I figured everything would be fine.

So here I was, back and forth with both insurance companies, distraught and frustrated. At 10am the surgery was officially postponed. I felt as if someone had just snatched all hope from me.

I had gone through the fasting the day before with only clear liquids and did not eat until the next day. The week before the surgery I was focusing on simple foods like Slim Fast, bananas, cottage cheese, V8 Splash, etc. in order to get ready. In the process I had began shrinking my stomach. After gathering my thoughts I decided that I was not going to give up. I kept eating this way for three more weeks.

I was on the phone with everyone I could think of on the day they postponed. All the Doctors I had seen over the past two years were called and asked to re-submit my medical records to my insurance company. It took a full week (the 4Th of July weekend fell in between) before records started pouring in to them. I called twice a day to see what they had received and where things stood. I was told they had up to 30 days to review the material before they made a decision.

There was really no need to get angry over this. Everyone else who had been excited for my was mad enough. My mother couldn't understand why I seemed to be un-phased by the postponement. What else could I do? I was already having the records re-submitted and appealing the previous denial. Getting upset would have lessened my focus on what needed to be done. I put all of my efforts into this. I also felt that if I let myself succumb to the drama of it all that I could easily slip into a depression and make the situation much worse and gain weight back that I had worked hard to lose. The most difficult part was having to explain to everyone why I was back at work the day after what should have been my surgery.

I finally called Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama on the second Wednesday and explained my situation. I told them that I could not wait another 3 weeks for the decision to be made only to find out that they were requiring more information. Then I would have to submit and wait again. I needed to know what they were currently missing so that I could submit that immediately and move on with the process.

I had completed my requirements for this surgery according the the Weight Loss Center 7 months prior to this. I was ready to be submitted for a date but because they didn't have any openings available before January 1st, I needed to wait on my new insurance to kick in.

After being on hold for a few minutes the woman in Customer Service came back on the phone and informed me that I had met the criteria for surgery earlier in the morning and they were going to cover it.

I was shocked that it only took them a week and a half after receiving the information and naturally wondered why I wasn't approved back in February. I was totally beside myself, literally doing a happy dance in the isles at work.

I called the Surgeon's office and spoke with Jacqueline. She said that she had felt so badly about things falling through before that she had saved August 4Th for me and it was still open. She penciled me in and she went to work verifying both insurance companies and requesting paperwork.

I faxed the approval letter over to her last week and she made my pre-surgical testing appointment for July 29Th and stated we were on track with the 4Th as the surgery date.

The Day Before Surgery

2009-06-29T19:02:00.000-07:00

I thought the day before surgery was going to be difficult because I was unable to eat food, only clear liquids. That's not where the problem lied. I never got hungry enough to be bothered by the ;ack of food.

I received a phone call about 2pm at work. It was the doctor's office urgently spelling out why tomorrow may not in fact be my surgery date.

When I was ready to have surgery back in December, there weren't any appointments available until January. My insurance changed on January 1st so I had to wait to get approval from my new insurance company. I was rejected not once, but 3 times due to the format the records were submitted in and lack of medical record proof of the weight loss program I was on. We fought the decision and re-applied several times, only to be rejected time and time again. My head was spinning and ended up in a depression, eating whatever I wanted.

In March or April we decided to try my husband's insurance. After a few weeks we received a call from the surgeon's office stating I was approved for the Gastric Bypass. I was overjoyed. The scheduled date was June 30, 2009. I couldn't have been happier.

Two weeks before the surgery I arrived at my pre-surgical appointment to register with the hospital to find out what to expect and what was needed of me before the surgery. When that appointment was over I had another across town at the main hospital where the Weight Center was located. Upon weighing in I discovered that, even after being strict for the past 2 weeks with what I ate and shrinking what my stomache could hold naturally, I was still at a higher weight than I was the last time they saw me in December. Heartbroken and furious with myself, I asked what I needed to do to keep my date of June 30. The nurse spoke with the doctor and stated that I needed to come back for a documented weigh in by the end of the following week. I worked extremely hard and was able to lose 5 pounds that week. I was back on track with my original date.

Back to today. I was shocked when I heard the surgeon's Nurse inform me that my insurance was stating that the surgery was not approved for payment and without that authorization they would not operate tomorrow. I felt a wave of tears pouring down my face. Here I was, at work, in a professional environment, trying to remain sane.

I asked what could be done. I had to call the insurance company and find out why I was not approved, contrary to previous go-aheads from the same insurance. I found out that there was a clerical error that was at the root of the issue. When my insurance company was informed of my surgical date, the Customer Service Representative entered the days date of the call as if my surgery was that day. Since I failed to have the surgery on that given date, the approval was no longer in acceptance status. I had also not informed my husband's insurance that I had my own primary insurance and the claim had been denied. The final thing was that they needed my insurance information to verify that it had been denied. "I AM having this surgery tomorrow!" I exclaimed. She suggested that I have my surgeon call and speak with the department that handles the authorization.

I immediately rang the surgeons office and explained where we stood. She called and spoke with them. By the time we spoke at 4pm the issue had not been resolved. She pushed my appointment to the 3rd slot instead of the 1st to give the hospital time to get approval and she asked me to call back in the morning.

I couldn't wait that long. I had to know! I stayed at work almost 2 extra hours using the phone to starighten things out. My final call was to the insurance company. After 10 minutes of trying to reach a live person I was on the line with a very caring individual who immediately spoke with the Precertification department. I waited another 5 minutes on hold. When she returned she filled me in on the current status of tomorrow's claim. I was officially approved for tomorrow's date as well as 10 days after surgical hospital stay. She was even thoughtful enough to provide me with a confirmation number so that I will have something to reference with the hospital in the morning.

The surgery has been pushed back to 1:45pm. I will be on the phone with the hospital at 8am to verify.

If you ever have to deal with surgical insurance, for a pending procedure, call well in advance to verify coverage and approval and don't only check once.

I will appreciate this procedure even more now with everything I went through to get there.

Say a prayer for me please.

Missy