Need some good advice.....

Hi Ladies ~

If you could answer a couple of questions for me, I would be so appreciative.

1.  2 weeks out from surgery and having a really hard time taking in more than 40oz of water and protein.  Any suggestions.

2.  I know all of us are so different but realistically over a 1 year period can you lose 100# with the Sleeve at 62 years of age.  I would love to hear from you gals who have done this.  I need a little hope right now.

Happy Holiday

Kim

Hello Kim and welcome!

We are a very supportive group of gals here, and we'll all try to help you as much as we can.

I am 57 and had the RNY (gastric bypass) when I was 54.  So I don't know a lot of particulars about the sleeve, but I can tell you that 2 weeks out is NOT going to be your "normal".  At 2 weeks out from any surgery, your body is still healing and adjusting.  So first of all, give yourself and your body time to adjust.

The water and protein suggestions are just that--suggestions.  They are the mark on the wall you need to try for daily, but you won't be able to fully comply with those instructions for awhile yet.  Again, it takes time.  We have a saying around here:  sip-sip-sip and walk-walk-walk.  Keep your water bottle (or glass, whatever) by your side all day long and sip every few minutes.  I wouldn't worry right now about trying to hit some magic number.  

As for how much you will lose in a year?  Well, everyone is different.  I did eventually lose a full 100 pounds, but it took more than a year for me.  Some people do it in less than a year.  It will help if you can walk daily.  Try not to focus on such a large number.  Instead try to enjoy going down a size at a time in your clothes.  I remember the absolute joy of getting out of the 3x, then 2x, then 1x sizes!  When I hit size 18 I thought I would dance all night!  Now I am about a size 14-16, depending on how the clothes are cut.  I really don't pay that much attention anymore.  I'm just happy to be healthy and active again.

SO.  In answer to your questions, yes, you are going to lose a LOT of weight this year.  Yes, it will get easier to get your daily requirements of water and protein down as the weeks pass.  And YES--you should be very hopeful for your future!!!  You have given yourself a GREAT gift this Christmas!  Take lots of pictures over the coming months.  You're going to have a grand transition from this Christmas to next.  

We post on a daily thread here on OFF (Over Fifty Forum) and would love it if you would chime in!  We will do our best to support you and answer any questions you have.

Best wishes!

Hi Vickie ~

Thank you so very much for your very insightful and supportive info.  I know I shouldn't be impatient.  Almost 50 years of being over-weight I guess I just want this fat to come off fast and I know it's not realistic.  I will try very hard to change my mindset in regards to the weight loss.  The main purpose for having this surgery was a massive heart attack in Aug. 2013.  My cardiologist told me if I didn't do something soon I was setting myself up for another attack or even worse a stroke.

I'm really happy that I found this forum.  It's kind of hard comparing myself to a 30 year old :)  even if that's how I feel mentally.  I will definitely check posts every day!

Thanks again and the Merriest of Christmas to you...

Kim

You are so welcome, Kim!  Happy that you have found our little OFF family!  Please post often so we can get to know you!

Merry Christmas to you, too!

I had RNY and for quite a while, I sipped water and clear liquids by the tablespoon.  In fact, the doctor sent me home from the hospital with a two tablespoon medicine cup and said try to drink one cup (2 tbsp) an hour of water, broth, or unsweet juice.  I also had a bite or two of jello or popsicles (sugar free).   It takes a while to get situated.  I didn't have anything but clear liquids for a couple of weeks. 

Hi Kim...I just wanted to welcome you to OFF (over fifty forum)!!

You are doing great...really you are. Vickie and Jeannie have already given you some good advice. I strongly agree with them. No need for me to repeat their posts.

I look forward to hearing from you again. You are very welcome to be a part of our fun and caring group!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

HUGS......connie d