I have had my RNY

Hijack!

Geez, it's going to be hard to get used to your new avatar!   (Great photo BTW: much better than Stewie!)

/Steve

I don't know Foobear, Stewie was a cool avatar although the pic of the "real majesticman" is indeed a good one.

On a side hijack, come across any good scientific health facts? If not, here's a question for you. I started taking magnesium yesterday due to severe leg cramps at night. They are magnesium exite which may not be easily absorbed by RNY's as a chelated form (whatever the heck that is). Any thoughts? Thanks

Boner

PS: Potassium levels are good.

I think you mean "magnesium oxide" (add water to magnesium oxide and you have Milk of Magnesia).  The magnesium ion is poorly absorbed from the colon; that's how MoM works: the magnesium ion that passes unabsorbed into the colon brings a lot of water along for the ride, leading to loose stools (or relief from constipation or both.)

Is "chelated magnesium" absorbed better?  I have no idea, although I sort of doubt it.

I really don't have any particular knowledge of the use of magnesium supplements to treat leg cramps one way or the other.

/Steve

Thanks, Steve. I did some "internet research" on cramps and came across a bunch of articles including this one in Runners World. Thought I would give it a go..

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Magnesium and Leg Cramps

 

  If you're a regular sufferer of leg cramps, running calf cramps and night time leg cramps and have tried 'almost everything', then perhaps the 'lullaby' mineral, magnesium, may have some benefits for you.

Magnesium is found in foods such as leafy green vegetables, mixed nuts and whole grains and you need at least 320 mg/day for women and 420 mg/day for men to get the RDA . . . more if you have an active life.

It has an active role in muscle contraction and relaxation and deficiencies of magnesium are associated with a higher risk of coronary artery disease, heart attacks, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, fatigue and pre-eclampsia - just to name a few.

To get enough magnesium to prevent leg cramps and running cramps (and to prevent cardiovascular disease) you would have to eat large quantities of magnesium rich foods . . . but for many - particularly those with poor nutrition and/or an active lifestyle this just isn't enough.

It is estimated that 90 per cent of Americans (and probably a similar percentage in other so called developed countries) are magnesium deficient . . . certainly about 80% of people with type 2 diabetes are magnesium deficient and people on magnesium supplements may be able to lower their cholesterol by as much as 20%.

So if you are suffering painful leg cramps, running cramps, calf cramps, or night time leg cramps you should take a look at supplementing with magnesium and also getting a check up with your local GP.
 

Hi Steve,

Thanks for noticing.  I am 56 and know I have been hiding all of my life.  Sitting in the back of the classroom, not answering teachers question--anything not to become the center of attention. People might notice I was fat.  A lot of us who grew up overweight know what I mean.  I am also not a lot different from a lot of the folks on this board in that even though I have lost over 150 pounds to date, I still have trouble seeing that and recognizing it is gone.

My cousin (who was also my best friend) was killed a few days ago in a car accident.  I thought if that had been me, none  of the guys would even have known what I looked like.  I really struggled with the photo avatar idea and came to grips with it today --I can't hide forever!  I have done OK in life-  worked good jobs, married for 35 years to a great woman, have 2 beautiful daughters who are good people, and lived long enough to see my oldest get her Ph.D. in May.  I just don't think I have to be invisible any more.  I took the picture at work today and did the deed.  I have done very well on my program and have worked hard at it, like a lot of others here.  If they are strong enough not to be invisible, I should be that strong also.  So that is me, my friend, for the world to see.  I am not good with it, but it is a good first step.  They guys on this board are the best. They teach us and help us, even with all of our flaws and issues.  I just felt like I had to have a "face to face" with all the guys I admire and thank so much.  When I am able to help a new guy or one of my bro's who is having a hard time, they deserve to see who is sharing with them.

After this surgery, we seem to grow a little, each in our own way.  It is pretty remarkable.

Best regards,

Lou 

Definitely get your fluids and protein in each and every single day no matter how bad it taste or how long it takes to get down.  Next and definitely very important - get off your ass each and every day and exercise.  You will be amazed at how fast and how much weight will fly off with exercise being a focus each and every day.  No matter what - put aside some time each day for you to develop a routine that you can stick to.  For the first six weeks most surgeons just want you walking regularly.  I am telling you what my surgeon did with me - I am not telling you or prescribing to you what you should do - you can chose to do what you want with this information.  Some people on the site will tell you start lifting light weights before six weeks are up, but they are playing a very dangerous game with their newly healed post-op surgical pouch.  Too much pressure can and will bust open staples/stitches.  Anytime you lift a weight, even 10-20 pounds, it puts lots pressure on your abdomen - trust me on this - I have lifted weights for many years and have a very good understanding of the body - in terms of anatomy and physiology.  Let your body heal properly - you worked hard to get where you are and you definitley don't need a set back by having to go back into surgery to fix your stomach again and then waiting even longer to get the ball rolling.  Trust me, when your doctor gives you the green light for weight lifting (usually 6 weeks) you will be ready mentally and physically.  Many post-op people feel mentally ready after 2 weeks to resume all normal activities, but be smart about what you put your body through early on - don't be a fool.  What you do early on sets the tone for down the road and what your body can handle.

Sorry to be long winded here, but just thought you should see the big picture so you can evaluate everything people are telling you.  Develope a plan and stick to it - don't deviate - even when the urge to skip or cheat comes knocking in your mind.

Taz

Congratulations! Did you have your surgery performed in the US? I recall several months ago that you were concerned about potential border issues. /Steve

I went to the border armed with all relevant info a passport ,and medical records ,letters you name it I had it ...They just said good luck with your surgery...

Nothing more can be said except get ready for the ride of your life. The next 12 to 14 months will be a delight!!!! Good Luck Randy

Three last pieces of advise.  Besides the sip and walk...rest and sleep.  Sleep whereever you can, the first week or two.  It can be bed, couch, floor, chair, whatever feels comfortable.  Allow the healing process to work...That's where the sleep comes in.  The other thing (number one issue most people face the first few weeks out), "I can't get in all my water and protein".  Most of us had a real hard time with that one.  Just do your best and you'll be fine.  I would even put 2oz of protein shake on the night stand, or some cottage cheese during puree period.  If I had to pee in the middle of the night, I would get some water or protein in then.  #3.  Know the signs of dehydration.  During the summer it can happen quickly.  Know what to look for, so it doesn't sneak up on you.  Dehydration is the #1 reason for reentry into the hospital.  You'll be board stiff the first few weeks...But then...hang on for the ride!!  Brian