Question:
Hypoglycemia after RNY

Has anyone had problems with hypoglycemia/low blood sugar since they had a RNY. I had this occasionally before my surgery, and now it has really reared it's ugly head. It's usually during exercise, but not always. I follow the correct food plan so I am mystified as to why this is happening. Has anyone else hade this and is their any treatment you know of for it? Thanks for your comments.    — katiecakes (posted on February 1, 2009)

February 1, 2009
Greetings Peggy: I had the same issues. In fact, one time when I was working with my personal trainer, I came very close to passing out because I got so weak. The reason for me was the simple fact I was following -- religiously following -- the bariatric recommendations for a person who has had RNY; however, I was not paying attention to the needs of my body prior to exercise. As soon as I mixed a small portion of complex carbohydrates (vegetables or fruits)with my high protein drink, I was OK. I then did a lot of research on this and found that the majority of personal trainers and body builders preach on the need to mix complex carbohydrates with the high protein drink prior to exercise. Also, pay close attention to remaining hydrated. I have remained at 96 oz. of water daily. Try this and see if this helps you. Blessings, Christine Gibson, MS, MA, Life Coach in training, OH Coach and OH WLS Support Group Leader
   — Christine Gibson

February 1, 2009
I know several people that this has happened to...One person who comes to mind is a fellow WLS person named Beth or "Melting Mama". Both her and her huby have had WLS...You can do a search on her and find all kinds of articles and hypoglycemia information. She has serious complications from it...She is just a walking encyclopedia when it comes to info. You will learn A LOT from her!
   — .Anita R.

February 2, 2009
Hey, I feel your pain, happens to me all the time. I was a diabetic before surgery and my blood sugars were through the roof, now especially during and after exercise I go to low. I make sure that I eat a meal before working out and then I keep something in my locker that I can eat immediately following. I also drink like crazy, 64 is my absolute minimum and I try for much higher. I always have some kind of protein bar in my purse for emergencies (I rarely eat one, but in an emergency they are life savers.) Good luck! Cathy
   — brindledanes

February 2, 2009
I NEVER had problems with my sugar pre-surgery. I had the open VGB in 1997 and a revision in 2005. Last year I started having issues that I thought were due to my electrolytes being out of balance. Imagine my surprise when I drew my blood (yes you read that correctly "I drew my blood") and ran a BMP (basic metabolic panel). Results? My blood sugar was 49. I called my dr and her answer? Take your blood sugar more often. More often than what since I am not diabetic. My insurance paid for a glucometer and I have been taking my sugar pretty often. They call it "reactive hypoglycemia". I can go hours without eating BUT if I eat carbs (even fruits or veggies) with no protein then my sugar drops. When I go workout I take kool-aid packets with me, yes full sugar kool-aid. If I feel funny I open the packet, dump 1/2 in my mouth and the rest in my bottle of water. It works quickly then I have to hurry up and eat some protein.
   — Roberta Murray