Question:
4 weeks out and..........

I am 4 weeks out from having gastric bypass surgery. I am sooo tired all the time. I am still sore and at times my stomach area feels tight. Is this all normal. I am also still very weak. Actually I had a leak so my surgeon went in and had to reroute my stomach again. That only happened a little over 2 weeks ago.    — cuppaloopy (posted on January 26, 2010)

January 25, 2010
If you had to have surgery again just 2 weeks ago, it is completely normal to be still weak and in pain. It might be slightly different if you were actually 4 weeks post-op, but really you have been set back 2 weeks. Keep getting your fluids and start making sure you get in your protein if you can. Protein isn't as important as fluids that first month, but anything can help. Make sure you are getting in those vitamins too! In 2 more weeks you should feel a lot better!
   — Jennifer F.

January 26, 2010
One thing that really helped me was taking B12 everyday and B1 every other day. I also take a FEOSOL iron supplement nightly. ALL made a HUGE difference in my weakness.
   — Lyzias

January 26, 2010
This question is for Elizabeth---I, too, am 4 wks post op from a lap rny. I am also very tired all the time and have read many posts on B12 injections helping to boost energy levels. I asked about shots yesterday at my surgeon's office, but they weren't able to give me an answer at that time. My question is, what's best, the shots or the vitamins daily?
   — taylork25

January 27, 2010
Surgery has a tremendous impact on your body. You had not completely recovered from one when you had a second. You will feel much better in three months and even better in six. Your body will never absorb nutrients again like it once did, and it is critical that you get on, and stay on a good vitamin supplement. B-12 is very important. It has been my experience that the shots deliver much more energy than the pills, but your body needs it either way. You are tired both from the surgery and from the huge reduction on nutrients. Go easy on yourself, give yourself time and rest and begin exercise when you can. Believe it or not, it will increase your energy levels. Strive to get 60 grams of protein a day, take your vitamins, and you will feel and look great in a matter of months. You can do it!
   — Bonnie H.

January 27, 2010
Barbara,I am about 6 weeks out and at times I have little or no energy. I too began to take B12 (sublingual) regularly and feel so much better. I can say for me everyday gets better.
   — Stacey W.

January 27, 2010
Hi Barbara, I'm 4.5 wks out & down 30#'s and too feel low energy. Remember in the beginning you are not taking in alot of food so it's normal. I take a B-Complex daily (regular vitamin) not chewable but then take a B-12 dot which is 500mcg & melts under your tongue and seems to work for me. I get all my vitamins at Puritan Pride because they have specials all the time of buy 2 get 3 free so very inexpensive. Best of luck on your journey :-)
   — 3decks