Question:
5 days post op- still in pain no desire for anything other than water

Today is my first full day home from the hospital. I have no desire for protein shakes just the thought of them makes me nautious, I am still in alot of pain and the only thing I am able to get into my system right now is water. I am kind of concerned that not getting my daily protein is gonna hurt me but I cant even think about drinking it. Has anyone else had this issue?? Is just water ok??    — jillian_amari (posted on May 22, 2010)

May 22, 2010
Know that we've all been there. The first few days are the worst however if you feel your pain is not diminishing a little each day then you should call your surgeon right away and let him know. Did he send you home with meds for pain? Are you taking them as prescribed? If your answer is yes then again, you need to call him right away. You need to be consuming more than water because yes, it will hurt your system. It's called malnutrition and your hair will fall out. Try some clear chicken and beef broth. I promise as you heal you will find your desire for food will return. Next will be the frustration of wanting something, eating one bite of it and finding yourself literally full to capacity. Hang in there. It does get easier.
   — Arkin10

May 22, 2010
It gets better, I can tell you, finally 10 months post op I am feeling better, however still not eating a lot. You really need your protein shakes, just mix it with water. Chike or Injury are delicious. Good luck my weight loss sister, it is worth it!!!
   — FSUMom

May 22, 2010
Hi My surgeon explained that it was more important to get in the required fluid early on... protein will come gradually later. They were more concerned with dehydration at that point. Any protein you can tolerate is a plus because protein promotes healing. Also... protein doesn't mix well with warm or hot food/drinks. You may want to try some in a cool or cold liquid. I found I tolerated bullion better than broth. I am 5 1/2 months post op and am doing very well... It does get betteer! I found my first 2 weeks to be hell but week 3 began improving and by week 4 I felt great! Remember you are divorcing your best friend, food. It is a very emotional time but it passes, make sure you are attending some type of support group if they are offered in your area. Remember to walk as much as possible, it helps move the gas which might be part of your pain. Sorry for the rambling, I hope some of it helps.
   — fortywhat2

May 22, 2010
I had problems with traditional protein shakes as well. The first couple weeks I got my protein from Unjury Chicken Soup flavor. I'm almost 2 years out now and Unjury Chicken Soup is still a favorite of mine.
   — Caribou ME

May 22, 2010
Thanks for responding I feel a little bit better hearing from you guys. I did get some pain meds he gave me roxicette and I have been taking it just about every four hours but come hour number 2 and its started to wear off. Also I do have the unjury chicken soup flavor... but I wasnt sure what to mix it with? and as far as walking goes I am trying to do as much as I can and I do definately see progress in how I feel over the past few days. I am just so use to being a busy body, running eerrands, taking care of things that I guess I feel a bit helpless not at full capacity right now. I have my post op appointment with my doc on Wednesday so I will ask him then. Thanks again for responding. The one thing that helps most is knowing I am not alone. xo
   — jillian_amari

May 22, 2010
Jillian, you got some good answers here. How long were you in the hospital? and did you have open or laproscopic surgery? If you had open, you will take longer to heal. Keep up the pain meds, keep hydrated if only with water, move as much as you can because that will really help the pain. Holding a pillow against your abdomen will give you some feeling of confidence also when you walk or go to the bathroom. You will be so glad you chose this path to health and happiness! Good luck with your journey!
   — Bonnie H.

May 22, 2010
Hi there. I had Lathroscopic Gastric Bypass. I was in the hospital for 4 days. I am definately going to try some new things today maybe that chicken soup unjury will be the answer to my prayers. I am a little discouraged right now because I went in the hospital at 210.... I came out 223 and now on day 6 I am down again to 215. The doctor said its all gas and fliuds from the IV but it sucks because I busted ass to get down to the 210 and I am not even back there yet. Thank you again for all the responses, the OH website has been the most helpful tool throughout this process and everyone has been so wonderful about sharing their experieces.
   — jillian_amari

May 23, 2010
Jullian Hang in there. There's no way that your gaining fat if you're just on water and broth. So the scale is telling you the same thing your doc told you. Take it slow.
   — werebrett