Question:
I'm starting to worry about the expense of protein shakes and vitamin requirements

after RNY surgery. Looking for info.    — Linda819 (posted on April 18, 2010)

April 18, 2010
I understand where you're coming from. I'm concerned about that too. But compare the cost of the diet with the cost of medications for hypertension, diabetes, back pain, etc, and it doesn't seem so bad!
   — NursieGirl

April 18, 2010
The protein shakes for my two week pre opp diet, were the only major "expense" Because of how much you have to drink of those daily. But even then I only spent $75 for two weeks and that was my "food" bill for those two weeks. Following surgery I have chosen to buy a better tasting protein and that was $20 a week. Vitamins again weren't very expensive either. Its so hard to grasp the change that happens following surgery that until you are there it seems like all this money is going to be spent. I was scared cause of my normal grocery bills for my family and then I had to start adding in my special needs I thought for sure I'd break the bank...however I have learned (and I am only 6 months out and 90 lbs down)that the grocery bill isn't as high as before because I'm buying alot less now...which makes room for the suppliments we need post surgery. BTW I was also on 10 meds daily. I'm down to 4 which I will be on for life as they have nothing to do with any obesity driven illnesses. Good Luck darlin!
   — Jamie1974

April 19, 2010
I haven't found the expense for supps or shakes to be too cumbersome. I purchase supps about everyth three months and shakes monthly. I have BJs, Sams and Costco memberships which make bulk shopping much easier. I set aside money for these expenses each paycheck, so when it's time to buy, it doesn't pinch my pocket too much.
   — KiaSunRay

April 19, 2010
Consider this part of your food/medical/drug costs. You'll eat a lot less food (if you use the tool and don't try to cheat it). Your medical costs will be a LOT less (esp. if your co-morbity list is getting longer, like mine was, while I was putting off WLS). Drug use should go down... You will likely live a lot longer, and that will cost you more. But that's a cost I'm willing to pay :-) My kids will just have to wait to inherit what's left... and they have said they would prefer I had the chance to spend it all on myself :-)
   — RachelA

April 19, 2010
Pre-op I was concerned about the expense of supplements also. But I actually have more money in my pocket since my grocery and eating out expense is very minimal. Don't worry.
   — Janell C.