Question:
3 1/2 Months Post Op - No energy at all!

I am 3 1/2 months post op and have had no energy at all. I had recent blood work done, everything checks out okay. Have lost about 42 lbs. so far but I know if I had a regular exercise plan I could be doing better. I have tried a zillion different protein drinks and have had no success (they make me gag), so I know I am not getting what I really need as far as protein. Please, I am just asking for any helpful advice, no preaching is needed here. Thank you!    — Jonna B. (posted on July 6, 2000)

July 5, 2000
I can only speak from my own experience...but it seems to me that in order to have more energy you would need a few things....rest....get lots of rest that your body is telling you it needs. protein....since we are not eating much we really need the protein....try different alternatives( I too hate the protein drinks...carnation instant breakfast is not too bad..or protein bars)....Also, make sure you are taking your b-12 and vitamins (I hear that if a person is lowon b-12 they will have low energy). Lastly, make sure you are getting your water in....Finally, I have found in my own experience that going on some walks, even little ones, throughout the day, helps with my energy. Otherwise I feel sluggish and lazy. These are just a few ideas...take them or leave them.
   — twenc

July 5, 2000
I hear what you are saying. For a while I was feeling the same way, I am three months post-op and was feeling very sluggish. I don't know if this will help but I try to take my vitamins and tums for calcium and also my b-12. I try to get pleny of rest also. Usually when I get home from work I lay down for at least an hour. My down time seems to be around 5 o'clock to 6 o'clock. I think our bodies are still healing therefore we tend to get that sluggish feeling. Oh yes I try to drink plenty of water although I don't get in the 64oz required (not for the lack of trying)and exercise also. I hope this help! Good luck to you. I do believe this will pass.
   — Sharon T.

July 6, 2000
Have you tried Procom protein? They carry it at some GNC outlets, I get mine from my doctor at Pacific Bariatric in San Diego. I couldn't tolerate any of the proteins without throwing up and ended up in the emergency room with all my electrolytes bottomed out. I was terribly sick. That was the only protein that I was able to keep down. I mix it with ice, frozen strawberries and two packets of Equal in a blender. It comes out like a smoothie and really tastes quite good. Since I've been using it, I feel MUCH better, lots more energy but still a little tired at the end of the day. I'm now five months postop and down 97 pounds. Good luck to you.
   — Connie G.

July 6, 2000
Try getting your protein intake from food...chicken breast and cheese are my main sources of protein. It is possible to get enough protein from food if you choose your food wisely and eat six small meals a day. There is alot of controversy on this site about whether or not protein supplements are superior to the protein found in food. All I know is that I'm following doctor's orders and getting my protein from food and I'm doing just fine. Even if you feel that protein supplements are superior they won't help if you can't tolerate them, so protein from food is better than no protein at all. Maybe you're tired because you aren't eating often enough and your blood sugar is low. Maybe it's because you haven't been exercising and your stamina is still low. Just try walking in five minute increments and gradually build up your stamina. Any exercise at all will help, even if it's just walking around the inside of your house. Just some things to think about. Good luck.
   — Kellie L.

July 6, 2000
I get a B-12 shot once a week. It gives me a lot of energy. Good Luck! Linda [email protected]
   — Linda F.

June 3, 2001
what about tofu or hummus, those are good sources of protein. Or tuna, cheese omlet. Just some ideas, to add some variety! jeanne
   — Jeanne P.