WLS Q & A Database

1. I found that water tasted funny as well (Jul 4, 2008) (View) (1 answer)
2. I take my Flintstone Vitamin in the morning along with my nexium and have been having (Jul 4, 2008) (View) (4 answers)
3. I don't know where to start. (Jul 4, 2008) (View) (1 answer)
4. Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D (Jul 4, 2008) (View) (9 answers)
5. What type of Psych Evaluation is needed for clearance? (Jul 4, 2008) (View) (17 answers)
6. Can't quit eating (Jul 4, 2008) (View) (8 answers)
7. Severe Pain on Left Side (Jul 3, 2008) (View) (6 answers)
8. I got a fill two weeks ago, and now I am "foaming" a lot (Jul 3, 2008) (View) (5 answers)
9. Has anyone w/ a BMI of 41 w/ no other problems been approved w/ Aetna Openchoice POS? (Jul 3, 2008) (View) (4 answers)
10. nausea (Jul 3, 2008) (View) (7 answers)
11. lap band on 6/24, on stage 2, how much should i eat and how often?? (Jul 3, 2008) (View) (4 answers)
12. I am 6 wks out of RNY and over the last several days have developed this terrible (Jul 3, 2008) (View) (6 answers)
13. I am allergic to Aspertame! Is there a substitute for S/F Jello & Crystal Light? (Jul 2, 2008) (View) (10 answers)
14. why would my doc tell me protein drinks are bad and where do i get my protein i need (Jul 2, 2008) (View) (10 answers)
15. lap band performed one week ago and have diarrhea and cotton mouth?? (Jul 2, 2008) (View) (8 answers)
16. Does anyone has Horizon bcbs nj direct 15 (Jul 1, 2008) (View) (1 answer)
17. Constipation. (Jul 1, 2008) (View) (17 answers)
18. Is it ok for post-op lap-rny patients to drink barium? (Jul 1, 2008) (View) (8 answers)
19. How full should I feel at 6 weeks and thereafter when I eat. (Jul 1, 2008) (View) (3 answers)
20. WHAT IF YOU ARE LIMITED TO DO EXERCISE (Jun 30, 2008) (View) (7 answers)

Q: Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D

[Jul 5, 2008]     Hi Jackie, I recently was introduced to an awesome liquid vitamin called "Passion 4 Life" It has 175 essential vitamins, minerals, herbs, and antioxidants. The best part is that there is up to a 98% absorption rate in 3 minutes. Let me tell and why I believe in this product so much: I am 6 months out and 96 lbs lighter. At about the 4 1/2 months mark my Dr. switched my Hormone Replacement from a hardshelll pill called Estratest to an inserted ring called Femring. Unfortunately the ring was too strong and I overdosed on Estrogen. Unknown to me at the time, what was also happening was that the Estrogen was wiping out my vitamins stores. A month later with what seemed to me to be unrelated symptoms, (mood not so good, anti-social at times, trouble concentrating, insomnia, constipation, bilateral neuropathy, hair dry and falling out, and an inability to tolerate any form of animal protein.) All were explained or thought to be caused by something else. When I started having sores on my tongue I threw all the symptoms in one basket and sure enough turned out to be a major vitamin deficiency. When I went in to the Dr. my BP was 80/50. A women in my complex mentioned Passion 4 Life so I started taking it and within the first 12 hours I could feel an improvement. The symptoms are going away as I continue. I have since switched over from Thorne Research to Passion 4 Life and have since became a Consultant for them. Anyone who saw me before and then sees me eight days later is amazed. Here is their website: http://passion4lifevitamins.com/index.html. You can use my login id # 100427 to order if you are interested or email me double-duty@sbcglobal.net questions if you have any. Best of luck, Charlene     — Charlene L.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I don't know where to start.

[Jul 4, 2008]     If I gained back more than 10% of my weight loss I would be contacting my sergeon, but maybe he is out of business. I have o assume that a revision would greatly assist you in losing your weight and with the right surgeon, you would allso get an opportunity to be beter educated. Today they send us to class and make us study before surgery. I don't know where you are, but in St. Augustine Florida there is a great Bariatric Sergeon that does revisions, but he does require you to take at least a day long class a few weeks prior to surgery. I know there are people that come to him from out of state as he has done more than 6000 WLS. His name is Dr. Robert Marema, and he is on this web site. He is with US Bariatrics, see www.usbariatrics.com or www.flaglerhospital.com. While he has several locations in FLorida, I know he personally only operates from this hospital, and his associated do the other hospitals in FLorida that are listed on their site. Best of success to you.     — William (Bill) W.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I take my Flintstone Vitamin in the morning along with my nexium and have been having

[Jul 4, 2008]     Try vitamins made for Bariatric patients, like Building Blocks from www.bbvitamins.com. I take other drugs with mine and don't have a problems. I found that my blood test were much better when takeing a vitamin that was designed to desolve and enter my system faster than over the counter childerns products. Hope this help you. Best of success to you.     — William (Bill) W.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I found that water tasted funny as well

[Jul 4, 2008]     I still only drink Disani Water as I taste chemicals in the water that come through even filters. I did not have the problem with sound of TV or people talking but now I can not stand noise that I can not understand like a room full of people talking loud, or the chatter of noise in a public place where everyone is talking at once. I think your mid developes some new sensitivities aftera period of time, as one of the people in my support group says she is very sensitive now to smells, and she never was before.     — William (Bill) W.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I take my Flintstone Vitamin in the morning along with my nexium and have been having

[Jul 4, 2008]     My Dr told me not to take anything with my nexium so I wait a hour before I take anything else.     — Debi R.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Severe Pain on Left Side

[Jul 4, 2008]     I had this pain too and I went to the E.R. to figure out what it was but no one could tell me anything, same with my surgeon. He only told me that if I was still in pain in a week to come back in. I finally bought some women's ex-lax tabs and took one a day for 3 days and man did they help!!! I hope this helps you! Mandy     — Mandy K.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I take my Flintstone Vitamin in the morning along with my nexium and have been having

[Jul 4, 2008]     hi- nexium is for gas and heartburn much like drinking a glass of water with baking soda in it. you are cancelling out any meds u take with the nexium. yiu also cannot take your iron with any calcium- cancells out the calcium. wait at least 3-4 hours to get the max out of your vits. good luck cindi -230# 3.24.04     — Doodles *****     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I take my Flintstone Vitamin in the morning along with my nexium and have been having

[Jul 4, 2008]     I was told not to take anything with the vitamins. To take the vitamins and then an hr later take calcium, biotin, etc. Karen     — Karen M.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: What type of Psych Evaluation is needed for clearance?

[Jul 4, 2008]     I went once for 15 minutes and was cleared I think the psyc is taking you through the cleaners     — Pam V.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D

[Jul 4, 2008]     My bariatric center recommends that all its WLS patients take 2 children's Flintstones chewable vitamins per day. Also, we take 1000 mg of Calcium Citrate twice a day (and apart from the vitamins because of our absorption problems). The tablets I found from Target are huge, but I can get them down. I have heard from others that there are some small, chewable ones that they get from the health food store, but the ones I take are Citrical Plus with Vitamin D and Magnesium. I also "do" a dropperful of vitamin B12 sublingually each day. This took a while to get used to, but it becomes part of your routine. I'm nearly 6 months out from RNY WLS.     — Dana C.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D

[Jul 4, 2008]     I love Caltrate fruit flavored Calcium plus minerals chewable tablets. I chew those three times a day. As for multivitamins, I use the Flinstones plus iron twice a day. Good luck to you!!! Ana Villa, RN     — Ana V.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: What type of Psych Evaluation is needed for clearance?

[Jul 4, 2008]     I only went twice, First time to do the 300 question elevation and the next time to talk with the Dr.. I would Run if i were you....Just wants more money I am sure..     — Vickie P.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D

[Jul 4, 2008]     I happen to like Bariatric Advantage chewable calcium citrate- cherry flavor- I also use their dry Vit D caps and B12. Kaiser had us use childrens chewable vits for the first 90 or so days then I went with Centrum Silver. Hope this helps. Years ago I had liquid vits for my children and they tasted yucky so I try to stay away from liquid. Good luck- it should be well worth the effort. Donna 26 mos post lap RNY 286-130     — Donna A.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D

[Jul 4, 2008]     I took Flintstones for the first few weeks, as per my surgeon. I also had to compromise the first month and took the other type because it was available in a chewable version. Once I was able to take whole pills, I switched to a calcium citrate/D version.     — Sue Z.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D

[Jul 4, 2008]     Don't know if you have a Costco store in your area, but I got my chewable vitamins there. They are Kirkland (the Costco store brand) and they are actually made for adults - if you give them to children, you're supposed to split them in half. The B12s I have are the kind that dissolve under your tongue, and they're gross (I always somehow get the taste on my tongue), so I save the chewable every day and take it when I start to taste the B12. :-) For calcium I'm just taking Viactiv - my surgeon recommended that.     — Lauren V.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: What type of Psych Evaluation is needed for clearance?

[Jul 4, 2008]     I agree with everyone who says you need to find a different psychologist. Just make sure that you know what is required by your insurance AND your surgeon, because they might have different requirements. My surgeon and my insurance only required one session, and my insurance paid for half of it. The psychologist I saw recommended additional pre- and post-op counseling for me, but cleared me for surgery. I have since begun to see a therapist on my own, but moreso to deal with other issues in my life. And it just so happens that my therapist does WLS evaluations! Odd but happy coincidence! So if issues should arise regarding my surgery and the subsequent changes in my life, I have a therapist who already knows how to deal with it. That is very comforting to me.     — Lauren V.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D

[Jul 4, 2008]     I take Bariatric Advantage orange chewable vitamins, 2 a day. For calcium & vitamin D I take UPCAL-D, it's powdered, one scoop or packet which ever you choose to take is 500 mgs of calcium citrate and 250 IU's of vitamin D, I take 3 packets a day myself. I order my Bariatric vitamins from Ebay but you can get them anywhere online just about, and the UPCAL-D I order from AMAZON. COM. I use the powdered in the can for home and carry the packets in my purse when I'm out and at work. Good luck with your surgery on July 25th, you don't have much longer.     — Debi R.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: What type of Psych Evaluation is needed for clearance?

[Jul 4, 2008]     Both my mom and I only went once and that was to two different providers and year apart. I would call around and get someone else. Good luck.     — Robyn Z.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D

[Jul 4, 2008]     At Sunshine Heath Center in Fort Worth, I found liquid vitamins that are sprayed into the mouth. You pump six sprays once each day. CELLFOOD MultiVitamin 100% RDA Formula A highly bioavailable oral spray with all natural Vitamins A, D and E Lumina Health Products At first I wasn't too crazy about the flavor but am getting accustomed to it.     — Gail H.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Postop Chewable vitamins/minerals and calcium citrate/Vit D

[Jul 4, 2008]     I just use Centrum Chewables, 3/day, not bad but for variety I also got Flintstones so I have three different flavours and I can switch them up.....someone might tell me here if this is not recommended...why I'm really writing is to pass along a tip....I had may Lap RNY last Saturday....for the first two days I could not eat, I was nauseous whenever anything passed my lips...they wanted me to drink water, eat broth, drink tea, no way could I even think about it......I just balked......and did I mention I was TERRIFIED!!!!!!! What had I just done? I was going to die because I'd never be able to eat again......BUT THEN.....I kept hearing people getting ice chips for other things, everybody was getting ice chips, so I asked the nurse if I could have some, first they said no but seeings that nothing else worked, what the hey!!!!! Dr said go for it and she gave me a big carafe of them....little by little I would melt the ice chips in my mouth and it would feel good going down and it didn't make me sick....I did that for about a day and maybe a little more....then they asked me to just try some apple juice, just a little......and I put ice chips in it and sipped a little.....no problem.....then I put it in plain water....no problem....then I started eating broth.....no problem......now I can get just about anything down my throat without feeling the least bit sick.......this all took place within two days....the third day I went shopping!!!! And I've been fine ever since. My biggest TIP...do no overfill your pouch...I wasn't really paying attention and drank too much Chicken Noodle Broth and have been uncomfortable and it is manageable.....I went out today and bought small sip bottles and small plastic cups and put the broth or juice or whatever in that in order to no overeat. Not just me.......the girl in the next room from me had a gastric sleeve, she vomited for three straight days, I didn't hear about it because I was dealing with my own issues but when I heard and went over and told her to try the ice chips....the next day she was drinking water etc etc...... So if it happens to you......ice chips my dear.....the miracle drug!!!!! And good luck....there may be a minute there when you think....What the F!!!!!!!....you'll get over it real quick!!!! I've already lost 8 lbs and haven't been hungry since June 27th!!!!!! I can't wait to get back to my normal life!!!!!!     — Fredricka M.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: What type of Psych Evaluation is needed for clearance?

[Jul 4, 2008]     One appointment for about 1/2 hour and answer all the question with much honesty. It will make your recovery go along much better. Best of luck in your healthier life.     — Barb D.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Does anyone reach a certain weight and start gaining again

[Jul 4, 2008]     I can't answer your question about reaching your goal weight and gaining because I'm only 4 1/2 months out but I just wanted to say something about "eating with the others". I am back at work and we seem to be having many "celebrations" or "social gatherings". Things like ice cream socials, pretzel & water ice parties, a cheesesteak luncheon (I live in Philly), etc... Anyway, I don't avoid them. I go and I take my own beverage (water supplemented w/protein mix), my own snack or my own lunch depending on the time of day the event occurs. This allows me to still participate in the socialization but to also remain in my healthy eating/drinking mode. I work at a pediatric specialty hospital and it's no secret that I've had the RNY surgery. Our dietary department even brought in sugar free Tastykake snacks (another Philly brand product) to one of the gatherings for those of us who are more health conscious. You too may need to bring your own foods and beverages when you eat with the others. This may help stop you from eating the things that promote the weight gain. Remember, even though your co-workers can be your friends, no one can care more about your health than you do. Good luck to you!     — Marion O.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: What type of Psych Evaluation is needed for clearance?

[Jul 4, 2008]     What matters is what your insurance company requires, and I doubt it's 8. Check with them, sounds like a money-making scheme to me... I had to go only once, for about 20 minutes.     — Gina A.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Can't quit eating

[Jul 4, 2008]     First of all you MUST stop thinking of this as a diet. You have to make your mind up to a life style change. Without making this change and accepting it in your mind, you'll always be on a diet.....and we know diets DON'T WORK! Diets are how you and I got here in the first place. Follow the your instructor's suggestions and advice. Stop drinking coffee, if you must, DECAFE! Stop drinking soda, all kinds, including DIET! Look at the fat content of what you're eating...no more then 25% Look at the sugar content Eat protein first, always Complexe carbs second Cut out BREAD, PASTA, RICE...all types, whole grain or not. If you have to eat pizza, eat the topping, give the rest to the dog. Make it a Vegetarian Pizza. Mac and cheese....have a piece or two of string cheese and take your time. NO SUGAR!!!!!! Use Splenda instead. Simple Carbs are your worst enemy. You eat bread and all you want is more bread, think about it. If your Diabetic, do you really need those carbs if you're not, DO YOU REALLY NEED THOSE THOSE CARBS. All they do is make you hungry! And Raise your blood sugar and then cause a sudden and severe DROP IN YOUR BLOOD SUGAR! Then you're hungry, again. Bread, pasta and rice....no, no, no! If you need a snack, try a Protein Bar. I use South Beach, phase 2 & 3. About cravings. Here's what I did. My classes were on Monday. That day for lunch or dinner I would get something I was craving or thought I would miss after surgery. EVERY MONDAY, I fulfilled a craving. Every day read a self book. I used "The Secret" and I still do. Daily, at least 15 minites a day. I lost 55 pounds pre - opp and that's how I did it My total loss is 141 pounds, surgery was 1/18/2008 Hope this helps. My story in "People" user name is "moterman" Good luck in your endevors, check out my story and God's Speed on our journey. Bob....aka moterman     — Robert F.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Can't quit eating

[Jul 4, 2008]     It not easy, and it won't b easy after WLS you might want to get better control before you hurt yourself It just not that easy Belive me I Know!! best of luck     — Alec K.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: What type of Psych Evaluation is needed for clearance?

[Jul 4, 2008]     The person u went to is a scam everyone i went once maybe twice but 8 they just want your money go elsewhere .     — Alec K.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Severe Pain on Left Side

[Jul 4, 2008]     I am 10 days post op and the pain is just about gone. I still take my pain meds at night, makes it easier to get up in the morning. I am able to lay on my left side as well as on my stonach. lisa     — Lisa B.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: What type of Psych Evaluation is needed for clearance?

[Jul 4, 2008]     Neither my PCP nor my surgeon required a psych eval. for which i was very thankful. Every doc is different. You may want to challenge the need for this eval. laura     — Laura H.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Has anyone w/ a BMI of 41 w/ no other problems been approved w/ Aetna Openchoice POS?

[Jul 4, 2008]     Kristin, Go on to your Aetna website or call member services and confirm that you have the benefit with your specific policy. If you do, serch on the Aetna website for Clinical Policy 0157 and it will provide the exact requirements for surgery approval. I was approved within 2 days and am very pleased with results.     — Robin B.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Can't quit eating

[Jul 4, 2008]     The 6th month pre op diet was one of the hardest things I ever had to do. But..I looked at it this way.. I hated the way I felt inside and out and cringed looking in the mirror, I did the 6 months but only lost a few pounds. It's not that you can never eat again... it's just a different way of eating choosing healthier foods, smaller portions, and like the others said think long and hard about this. make sure it is what you really want. You're welcome to email me anytime! We're all here for you!     — Danielle T.     (See other answers/post your answer)