Question:
I suddenly have no appetite at week 5 post-op. Is this normal?

I did search the archives before I posted this but I'm not satified with the answers. I am 5 weeks post-op lap, stapled (not transected)RNY. For the first few weeks, I was fine, eating the right foods, getting plenty of water and protein, exercising every day and generally feeling great. I had some hunger, some cravings but nothing horrible and I do not throw up anything. I have lost 37 pounds so far. I have noticed that the last 4 days, I have had absolutely no hunger. The last 2 days, I did not even want to drink. I still feel OK, but I'm worried: is this normal? Is it OK for me to not eat for a few days-- or eat a minimum amount of food? Is that safe? I am still taking my vitamins and do not have a problem taking them on an empty stomach.    — lizinPA (posted on March 17, 2003)

March 17, 2003
So long as your decreased appetite isn't related to some physical discomfort (meaning, are you sure nothing's been going down a little rougher lately?), then I don't think it's unusual if your appetite waxes & wanes a bit. But at five weeks post-op, it's not okay to respond by not eating or drinking enough. You don't want to risk dehydration, malnutrition, or a plateau brought on by going deeper into "starvation mode." Eat and drink what you should at this point, and just enjoy the lack of hunger while it lasts. :~)
   — Suzy C.