I feel like I can't help myself

All I can do is drink and sleep. I drink plenty of water/crystal lite and get up and walk when I have to. I started out being able to take my vitamins and some protein but now its next to impossible. I can only eat a few bites (1/2-3/4oz) once or twice a day. I know I will feel better if I could just get some nutrients in me, but its so hard. I feel like doing the water and sleep thing forever now.

The lack of protein definitely makes you more tired - can you try some type of fruit flavored type protein drink? I know the milk based ones can seem so heavy when first out - or how about some unflavored unjury protein powder in a warm broth or tomato soup? Be gentle with yourself - as long as you are staying hydrated and resting - that is primarly what your body needs right now..... you'll be okay

Matt...should have read this one first.....are you getting B12???  either by shots or nasal spray?  before I get my shot, I am Pretty drained.  I know doctors are different, but especially in the beginning, that B12 shot saved me!

Are you having a problem with the protein?  If so, try my little trick....bc I am the queen of hating protein shakes...no matter how I made them I can not force them down.  Then I discovered if I buy Alpine Punch Isopure (it's a red fruity looking drink in a bottle), and cut it in half with either a red crystal light flavor or Diet Ocean Spray Cranbury juice, I don't even taste the protein.  I drink it all day long now, with ice. I was only eating once or twice a day at your stage.  I think it's pretty normal.  You could try some soup broth.  Are you having any pain or a fever?  Other than being tired, are you feeling ok?

I remember those days.  I had a hard time getting in my protein and vitamins too at first.  Just sip sip sip all day long.  You will get there.  I agree too with the B-12.  I would have your Dr. run labs just to be on the safe side... although you are a new post-op and probably arn't having a problem with your vitamins yet, you want to make sure you arn't starting a problem.  The first few months are when you are getting in the least and you are losing the most so try and hang in there.   If you keep sipping and aiming for your daily protein intake then you should be just fine.  Hugs, Chrissy

I'm sorry hun that you are having a hard time....I HATED the way I felt for quite a while....for the first 2 to 3 months after surgery, if you asked me if I would do it again, I would've said "hell no, I'd rather be fat for the rest of my life"......but, it DOES get better!!  I would now do the surgery over and over again.....you have to keep telling yourself that you will eventually get 'yourself back'....you will get through this and you will feel better!!

Matt, You've just have had major surgery...give yourself a break!  You are bound to be a bit tired from all of this. Plus, you are depriving your body of what it's used to getting in... Baby steps... Right now, at this stage, all you need to be worrying about is getting in your protein...PERIOD...little walks around your house or outside are ok... Everyone is different in their recovery.  Anesthesia also does a job on the body, we're big people, it gets into our fat and tissues and has a hard time getting out.  That's when a lot of sipping of water is good, too. Keep a small bottle of water (I did the smar****er, clear regular water with electrolyted in it) by your side at all times and just take little sips all day long.  You'll realize that you're getting in more than you thought. Don't worry, also about your vitamins right now...you'll get them in when you're more healed. Worry now about healing, flushing your body of anesthesia, and getting your protein in.   AT LEAST 65gms a day...more for a man...and the weight will fly off of you and you'll get your energy back...believe me, you get it back.  Up to eight weeks is normal recovery time for a major rehaul like we've had! Don't be so hard on yourself... I remember Dr Aranow telling me that I will feel every stinking emotion in the book post op...and I laughed when he said that...four hours later, I was crying hysterically cause I didn't think I could "do this recovery", and the next I was laughing and then angry!  It does a job on us physically and emotionally..that's for sure. Hang in there and keep us updated...we all have lots of wisdom to share with you! If you need to rest, take this as a sign that your body is needing rest...SO REST...do it now, when you're home and recovering...I did and it was great! Paula

Paula's post reminded me that I really have done an emotional roller coaster. If that is happening take some anti-depressants or make sure you are taking them. It really helps.