Question:
I have a question on b-12, my labs came back fine, but i still find myself

without a ton of energy. I am 2 mths post op- and was wondering if i took b-12 oral if that would help my energy level, or not. THANKS A BUNCH -46 lbs    — paulsgirl (posted on August 17, 2002)

August 17, 2002
I am 8 weeks post-op, at my 6 week check up I was still feeling tired all the time, well not a lot of energy. I talked to my nutrionist and my surgeon, I was told to increase my carbs. Prior to them telling me that, I was not eating a lot of carbs, hardly any, I purchased ketostix and was worried about going into ketosis (I was trying to go into ketosis). I am eating more carbohydrates, but still not a lot, and I do have more energy. Some info from a finess magazine--- Carbohydrates fit into 3 categories, complex carbohydrates, fiber, and simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates are found in breads, cereal, pasta, rice, legumes, fruits and vegatables. Simple carbohydrates are what is found in sugar, honey (stuff we can't have). If you are going to increase bread or pasta get the wheat based type. I know I feel better now since I increased my carbs, and if your labs came back fine you may want to increase as well. I would look first at changing your diet before starting on meds, then if the diet change doesn't work consult your doctor before you start on the b-12. I know there are people that will disagree with me, and that's fine, this is just my 2 cents and my experience. Good luck & God Bless!
   — stacjean

August 17, 2002
What is "fine"? What is the number? Many docs will not treat B12 (which is a "for sure" issue for us) until we cannot get out of bed. B12 sublingual will not hurt, but knowing the actual number on your lab will tell you where you are. Swallowing a B12 won't help at all. When you're getting your copies of your labs, check the iron level & protein levels--where is it within the range? Where is it now vs where was it pre-op? Any of those can be making you feel wasted.
   — vitalady

August 18, 2002
It might not be a lack of B-12 making you tired. Are you taking your other vitamins? I know during "that time" of the month, even pre-op I would be tired from low iron. Also like the prev post, you may want to add some carbs too. Also make sure you get in your protien. Something that did help with my energy was changing the eating habits. I was eating just 3 times a day,,,,big no no. Eating every 3 hours(small meals) jump kicked my butt with energy to at first I had trouble sleeping...no lie!. Now I deal with that energy by walking. At 2 months I was tired like you so I started messing with my eating till I got on a every 3 hour regimen. Are you exercising too? That may give you energy as well. Just giving you some ideas.
   — stacey1273