I'VE GOT THE "I DON'T WANT TO EAT AND I GOT THIS NASTY TASTE IN MY MOUTH" BLUES

Hi guys, maybe you can help. I am 10 weeks post operative and I've lost almost 70 lbs. And that is fantastic. But I am getting depressed because I have no desire to eat, which means when I try to eat, I don't want it. I manage to get in a little in order not to starve, but it's getting to the point where it makes me cry. I also have this god awful taste in mouth 90 percent of the time. Usually, a sugar free lifesaver helps, but I can't eat those all day. Does anyone know what causes this? Thanks guys.

Andrea - WOW!!! 70 pounds in 10 weeks is great, I know you must be so happy. The nasty taste in your mouth is probably from ketosis, where your body is burning fat - it's actually a good thing, but you're right, it's yuck! I always referred to it as "protein breath," because at one point, my brother said he could smell it, too!! YIKES! A "lifesaver" for me was s/f Breathsavers in berry and sour flavors - they also helped right after I ate because you can't drink for 30-60 minutes, depending upon your surgeon. You may also have to brush your teeth and tongue more often, this may help. I know it's frustrating, but don't worry, the urge to eat usually reappears, although the timing is different for everyone. If you really can't eat, I would suggest you call your doc/nut, because it's important that you get in as much of your daily requirements as possible. They may have some suggestions to help. It does get better, but again, the timing is different for everyone. Just hang in there! Teresa

Hi Andrea, 70 pounds, that's amazing! Congrats! I'm 6 weeks out and I find myself forcing the food in 5 to 6 times a day. I have no real desire to eat but know if I don't eat I can hurt myself. For me the fear is my other tool to help with this tool. My biggest problem is getting in enough fluid but know in time it will all balance out. Like Tia said, check with your nut/doc..they may be able to give you more insight and help you through this rough time. All my best and keep us posted. ~Heather

Thanks guys! Now that I know what the nasty taste is....I can live with that. Usually though when I don't feel like eating, I revert back to liquids, broth and the such until my appetite returns. But it's amazing how your life revolved around food before the surgery and still revolves around it afterwards but in a different way...lol. Thanks for the great wishes. Wishing you guys the best also. By the way, I was 339 pre-op, so although 70 lbs sounds great, and it is...lol...don't get me wrong...still a long way to go, but not as far as before.

Hi Andra Girl, sounds like your doing well. I started out at 304. I'm 8 months out and It's taken me 8 months to lose 80 lbs. Don't worry, at this point not having much of an appetite is normal. Focus on getting in your daily requirments for liquids, vitamins, iron, calcium and protein. Nadine O.

I bought a travel toothbrush and keep it with me. Helps with the bad breath/taste. Keep up the good work. Aime