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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Aug 6, 2014 9:35:33 GMT -5
Hello everyone,
Everything is going really great, I think. I had my four-week appointment with my surgeon and he said everything looks great and he's really happy with how I'm doing. I also switched to Isopure ready to drink Grape Frost protein drink and I'm actually liking it. I'm happy with the 40 grams of protein and it's 20 ounces so that helps with my liquid intake as I'm struggling a bit with that, though the surgeon said I'm good. I'm hoping you all can help me out with the following:
1) I asked the surgeon about birth control as I was on the pill prior to surgery. He said I should be fine with that but double check with the gyn. My family doctor actually prescribes it and I'm just not sure she knows enough about the DS (though she's reading up on it and is eager to learn for my sake she said - I'm her first DS patient.) Do you think I'm okay with the pill? I do like it and love knowing when to expect my monthly visit. That being said, I thought I read it's a risk. Please advise me what you think and if you don't think it's effective/reliable, what do you recommend? I'm 46 and done having children. I mentioned IUD to my husband and he said this makes him nervous as he's heard things that are a little scary with that. Anything you can share is appreciated. My husband thinks the pill may be okay because the surgeon thinks it would be okay.
2) I'm considering starting Vitaladys DS starter 3-month combination. I'm planning on ordering it on Friday. After looking, it seems like a lot more pills than what my surgeon and nutritionist think I need. I just want to be healthy. When I mentioned this to them, they said you definitely don't need all that. Now I'm confused. What do you think? I do know my surgeon said not to take iron since I had IV bags in the hospital and my ferritin is about 542 and the normal high is 232. He told me that's due to the bags in the hospital, I'm also slightly constipated and he said the iron would make me more so. I see him again in October. So, do you think VITALADY or figure out something else?
Sorry for the long post, but the community on this board is so full of experience and knowledge that I can't help myself. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, for caring enough to be there for people like me. On a good note, he told me over the next month to start eating soft foods and build up to a regular diet (as a DSer.). My husband made me a dinner of 4/5 scallops last night and I was in heaven! I'll admit I'm nervous eating as I don't want to get sick.
Oh, one last thing, any recommendations for dinner out somewhere? It's my husband and my 27th wedding anniversary this Friday and, though he's offered to cook for me, I would love it if he didn't have to and we could go somewhere. Then again, not a big thing if you think it's too early to eat out (I'll be at a month post-op.)
Thanks again for all your help, Kelly
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Post by Melinda on Aug 6, 2014 10:15:05 GMT -5
Hi Kelly!
Sounds like you're doing great!
I would stay clear of the BC pill unless you have a secondary form on hand to use as well, such as condoms. There is some debate as to absorption of the pill, especially newly post op. Does it stay in your system long enough to fully be absorbed? Who really knows? I used the BC pill but more for bleeding issues to be controlled and I never used it "alone". The Nuva Ring may be a better choice for you as it's absorbed through tissue, not your altered GI system
Do you have a Melting Pot near you? That was my favorite go to place for out to dinner! I loved doing the fondue with tender cuts of meat! If you want to go out to dinner, go out to dinner! Celebrating your anniversary is about more just eating! Go out and have a nice time. If you find some nice, soft and tasty foods full of protein to try and share while you're out, enjoy. You deserve a treat. Just take it nice and easy.
I never used Vita Lady except for the Dry D. I'm sure others will chime in on that. I always use Centrum Specialist for Energy as my "main" vitamin, and supplement with the Dry D, plus 8 CitraCal throughout the day. It's so individual based on your own labs. That has always worked fine for ME, plus the iron infusions I get every 2-3 years and I've been covered.
Congrats on doing so well! Happy anniversary.
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Post by newyorkbitch on Aug 6, 2014 11:11:47 GMT -5
Get an IUD. At your age, the odds of you getting pregnant are minuscule anyway. And IUD poses minimal risks and the risks would be related to childbearing which you don't want to do anyway. If you can avoid hormonal birth control, why not do so?
FWIW, I would never advise an IUD for someone who still wants to get pregnant. But for you, it makes absolute sense. You can keep it in until you're menopausal.
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Post by jpcello on Aug 6, 2014 13:25:19 GMT -5
Kelly - I never did the Vitalady starter kit, but I do get the majority of my vitamins from her. I like the convenience of getting everything from her and supporting a small business. The only things I don't get from her are Vit C and multi-vitamin. I've also recently discovered that, in a pinch, I can get certain Biotech vitamins (same brand as Vitalady) from Amazon (they sell D, K1, K2). Since I already have Prime, I don't pay for shipping and I get it in two days.
If you still get your period, your iron will probably tank eventually so just keep an eye on things. You might want to try adding magnesium citrate (I take one per day) to help with the constipation. You're still early out so you're still working things out and they will continue to change.
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Aug 6, 2014 19:26:42 GMT -5
Melinda, NYB, and jpcello, I can't thank you enough for your feedback. I really appreciate your time and advice. Have a great night!!
Kelly
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dawn4511
Junior Member
Posts: 92
Surgery Type: Revision
Surgery Date: 08/14/2014
Surgeon: Dr Dennis Hong
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Post by dawn4511 on Aug 6, 2014 20:52:38 GMT -5
I don't have any advise I just wanted to congratulate you on doing an awesome job so far.
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Post by historytracker on Aug 7, 2014 1:41:11 GMT -5
Kelly: I did the Vitalady starter kit and I am sorry that I spent so much money! Most of the vitamins are from Costco. My next appointment is with Greenbaum on 11/6 (teacher convention and I am off of work) and I will meet with the nutritionist to make sure that I am on target.
One important thing is to take a probiotic. I have mine in powder form and put it right with my protein shake in the morning.
Birth control - Does your family doctor perform your annual exam? If the pill is convenient for you and you like it - it would definitely be in your favor to ask an OB/GYN or family doctor? I have no clue how the DS is related to your reproductive system of your body. But I would think with the low amount of hormone in the pill and the fact that you have a history of using BC pills - it would be OK. I would continue using it as long as my doctor gave me the OK.
As for your anniversary dinner - head for the Jersey shore and find a nice seafood restaurant. You can use something like urban spoon app or research. Seafood should be easy to eat and you can always bring home a doggie bag.
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Aug 7, 2014 5:44:56 GMT -5
Thanks so much, Dawn, I really appreciate that. You've made my day (and it's only 6:31 am here!)
Cindy, that's what I was thinking, hmmm, now I have to decide, convenience vs. cost. I just want to get it right so bad!! Being a revision, I'm afraid of making mistakes. We just missed each other at Dr. Greenbaums, I was there Tuesday. My next appointment is October 10 (I live a lot closer than you.)
I didn't know I should be taking a probiotic, I had thought that was only if there was a problem. What will this do? I've seen them in pill form and have taken in the information but didn't realize they were to be taken from the start. Powders and I don't get along too well...
Yes, my family doctor does my annual exam. She's great. When I saw her yesterday, she said she's calling on experts to see what they think regarding the pill. She knows a doctor who treats malabsorption disease and feels this would be similar. Many on this board are concerned it will malabsorb and not be effective, I certainly don't want any more children with my youngest being 18!
I'm thinking seafood would be excellent, too, and lots of good places to go only 40 minutes down the shore. Another DS veteran suggested Melting Pot. I've never been there but there's one in AC, about an hour away. I'm excited about celebrating 27 years tomorrow! He's my first and only boyfriend and we've been together since I was 13.
Hope all goes well with the separate doses of Omeprazole, heartburn stinks!
Take care, Kelly
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Post by nursemelanie on Aug 7, 2014 20:34:31 GMT -5
Kelly - I never did the Vitalady starter kit, but I do get the majority of my vitamins from her. I like the convenience of getting everything from her and supporting a small business. The only things I don't get from her are Vit C and multi-vitamin. I've also recently discovered that, in a pinch, I can get certain Biotech vitamins (same brand as Vitalady) from Amazon (they sell D, K1, K2). Since I already have Prime, I don't pay for shipping and I get it in two days. If you still get your period, your iron will probably tank eventually so just keep an eye on things. You might want to try adding magnesium citrate (I take one per day) to help with the constipation. You're still early out so you're still working things out and they will continue to change. Which multi do you take? I'm ready to gets new one.
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Aug 7, 2014 20:50:05 GMT -5
Currently I'm taking Bariatric Advantage high ADEK multi-vitamin chewable. It's three a day. But some of our more experienced DSers said it should be separate. I'm thinking of trying Vitaladys regime for a month (minus the iron.)
Good luck finding the right one, Kelly
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Post by historytracker on Aug 8, 2014 1:20:04 GMT -5
Thanks so much, Dawn, I really appreciate that. You've made my day (and it's only 6:31 am here!) Cindy, that's what I was thinking, hmmm, now I have to decide, convenience vs. cost. I just want to get it right so bad!! Being a revision, I'm afraid of making mistakes. We just missed each other at Dr. Greenbaums, I was there Tuesday. My next appointment is October 10 (I live a lot closer than you.) I didn't know I should be taking a probiotic, I had thought that was only if there was a problem. What will this do? I've seen them in pill form and have taken in the information but didn't realize they were to be taken from the start. Powders and I don't get along too well... Yes, my family doctor does my annual exam. She's great. When I saw her yesterday, she said she's calling on experts to see what they think regarding the pill. She knows a doctor who treats malabsorption disease and feels this would be similar. Many on this board are concerned it will malabsorb and not be effective, I certainly don't want any more children with my youngest being 18! I'm thinking seafood would be excellent, too, and lots of good places to go only 40 minutes down the shore. Another DS veteran suggested Melting Pot. I've never been there but there's one in AC, about an hour away. I'm excited about celebrating 27 years tomorrow! He's my first and only boyfriend and we've been together since I was 13. Hope all goes well with the separate doses of Omeprazole, heartburn stinks! Take care, Kelly Hi Kelly: Dr. Greenbaum wanted to see me in 3 months so 12 weeks brings it to November and with the teacher's convention in AC I will drive down he night before and stay the night in the area, then see him first thing in the morning then continue to AC for the conference. Probiotics puts good healthy bacteria in your gut and helps with the digestive process. Back to the birth control issue: Here is an article from Dr. Jen Gunter. Hopefully this will give you some other alternatives. I personally haven't used birth control pills. At this stage in my life (48), my cycle is so infrequent, but I still would not chance it. drjengunter.wordpress.com/2011/08/27/bariatric-surgery-and-contraception-what-you-need-to-know/Wow - 27 years is a big celebration. How long have you been married? We just got to 21 years this past May. The Melting Pot - is close to the Sheraton. I think that would be a unique experience . Whatever you chose - have a great time and congratulations.
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Post by jpcello on Aug 8, 2014 5:10:46 GMT -5
Kelly - I never did the Vitalady starter kit, but I do get the majority of my vitamins from her. I like the convenience of getting everything from her and supporting a small business. The only things I don't get from her are Vit C and multi-vitamin. I've also recently discovered that, in a pinch, I can get certain Biotech vitamins (same brand as Vitalady) from Amazon (they sell D, K1, K2). Since I already have Prime, I don't pay for shipping and I get it in two days. If you still get your period, your iron will probably tank eventually so just keep an eye on things. You might want to try adding magnesium citrate (I take one per day) to help with the constipation. You're still early out so you're still working things out and they will continue to change. Which multi do you take? I'm ready to gets new one. I take Centrum Silver Women 50+ (cuz that's what I am )
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Aug 8, 2014 7:06:51 GMT -5
Hi Cindy,
Thanks so much for the response. The three months explains it, he wanted to see me in two. Maybe he takes travel time into account and brings those real close back in two months; then again, maybe he sees my nervousness and said I better have her check in sooner LOL. That's great you can do it while heading to the teacher's convention in AC. I'm a high school administrator so I no longer go to the convention since we're not supposed to join NJEA.
Thanks for the info on probiotics and the article on birth control. Both are very useful information.
We've actually been married for 27 years today. We've been together for 33 years. This is the first time we didn't go away together. We've postponed a vacation until I'm feeling "normal" again. I've got to admit I'm feeling good though I do have my moments of discomfort and unsuredness regarding what my stomach is doing...
I hope today you go heartburn-free and enjoy your day!
Kelly
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Post by historytracker on Aug 8, 2014 7:33:23 GMT -5
Hi Kelly:
You might be right about how Dr. Greenbaum schedules his patients. I wish I was closer because I think I would actually attend the support group meetings. Right now online is the only way I have to connect to any DS patients.
I am focusing on being heartburn-free. I will find what is setting it off - if there is something. Someone on Facebook suggested caffeine so I swore off my Diet Peach Snapple for today.
Interesting - I teach high school business and I am lead teacher this year so I am gearing toward the freshmen orientation in a few weeks. I only wish that I was teaching the new students. Instead I will be teaching Economics so that means seniors and it is about graduation rates and attendance. I have an SLE certification and they have asked me to start a work study program so my plate is full this year. Also I am working on my masters with Educational Leadership which should be complete by the Fall of 2017. Then I am hoping to relocate and my husband should be retired by then.
Well plan a wonderful vacation when you are feeling "normal" to celebrate the anniversary. Good luck in the start of your school year!
Thank you.
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Post by Girlrocker on Aug 8, 2014 9:56:52 GMT -5
Hi there, I can 'weigh in' a little about the vitamins. I think Vitalady pre-packaging is wonderful, a service she does to make things easier, and I forever thank her for being on the front line of bariatric service when there wasn't any. I think her service is still valuable, and I tailor my vitamin needs with a balance of purchasing certain things from her in the dry and/or dosages we need - like D, A, K because I like to support small business owners as a general practice. I use a regular multi-vitamin, often the house brand from Walmart, CVS, etc. I also buy my calcium citrate, magnesium, E, Bcomplex this way too. Those are what I take, and I have my labs done regularly to monitor what else I might need. I have also used pre-natal as a multi (more of the good stuff for ladies). I use Proferrin (heme iron) which I order online.
You never have to apologize for writing 'too long' (says the novel writer poster)! I think you're off to a great start, not just in what you are taking in (protein, fluids, vitamins) but your mindset, understanding it takes work, trial and error and some patience with the process as it's like having the digestive system of an infant in terms of how we progress. Keep up the great work!
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Aug 8, 2014 12:02:20 GMT -5
Cindy, I hope you have a really good day and that giving up your peach tea helps because I know that will be tough. Just keep in mind what the more experienced ones around us say, it's probably not forever! I'm planning on attending the support group in Moorestown towards the end of August, but I think it will be mostly those with the sleeve. I agree, it's way too far for a meeting! Besides the people on here are so full of information. Cindy, this is so strange but I'm a former business teacher and past president of the NJ Cooperative Education Association which includes coop coordinators and Structured Learning Coordinators. My job as an administrator is awesome as I oversee all these programs in my district (along with many other things!) I'm really well versed in structured learning and coop, as a matter of fact, my doctoral dissertation was on Option 2 and work study programs. If there is anything at all I can do to help with your program set up or master's, don't hesitate to call me. I'll message you my phone number via Facebook. What a small world...
Sharyl, Hi! Have I told you lately how much I appreciate your posts? If not, I do! Your advice on vitamins is great. Though my husband says just get what you need, I want to be smart about it. Thank you for taking the time to write it all out. By the way, you have no idea how much your second sentence in the last paragraph means, it gives me confidence so thank you!
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musicdiva
New Member
Posts: 17
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: 3/05/14
Surgeon: Dr Daniel Cronk
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Post by musicdiva on Aug 8, 2014 13:14:30 GMT -5
I LOVE that you posted the question about Birth Control. I am having the same issue. I don't know what to use. I am early 30's and single with Poly Cystic Ovarian disease and I DO NOT WANT KIDS!!! At least not anytime soon.
My Gyno's #1 recommendation was an IUD- however, I am not a candidate because of a weird cervix. I am using the Nuva Ring, and I hate it.
Have any of you heard of the Implanon Implant? It goes directly under your skin and lasts for up to 3 years. It's relatively new, and my gyno is not really a fan- but I haven't done much research yet.
Any thoughts on alternative ideas for BC?
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Post by newyorkbitch on Aug 8, 2014 13:17:27 GMT -5
If you ever want to have kids, please don't get an IUD. Although the risk is small, the risk is there for uterine perforation.
Why do you hate NuvaRing?
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Aug 8, 2014 13:37:11 GMT -5
NYB, can I ask your opinion on the implant or shot every three months? That's if your familiar with them. My doctor didn't think I was a good candidate for the IUD, unfortunately, due to a severe tipped uterus (sorry if that's TMI). I appreciate it if your familiar, you just give such great, straight forward advice.
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Misty
Junior Member
Posts: 60
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: 07/22/2014
Surgeon: Dr. Hazem Elariny
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Post by Misty on Aug 8, 2014 13:58:37 GMT -5
I personally tried the NuvaRing several years back and I was a bear to be around. My husband said it was great birth control since I was too moody to even get near! I ended up with Paragard IUD. To be fair though, we've had 7 and really don't want more. My husband had already had a vesectomy and then had it reversed which added our last 2 kiddos and we wanted to do something that would get me to menopause or close to it. I haven't had any problems but it was not covered by my insurance. It was the best hormone free choice for me.
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Post by newyorkbitch on Aug 8, 2014 14:05:26 GMT -5
They work very well, assuming you don't have any ill side effects from hormonal birth control.
But frankly, at your age, the risk of pregnancy is miniscule. Maybe use a cervical cap? Why use hormonal birth control if you can avoid it?
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musicdiva
New Member
Posts: 17
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: 3/05/14
Surgeon: Dr Daniel Cronk
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Post by musicdiva on Aug 8, 2014 15:54:50 GMT -5
If you ever want to have kids, please don't get an IUD. Although the risk is small, the risk is there for uterine perforation. Why do you hate NuvaRing? I find the NuvaRing to be really uncomfortable. It's difficult for me to put in, and to take out, not to mention when I forget to change it.
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Post by newyorkbitch on Aug 8, 2014 15:56:26 GMT -5
musicdiva, try implanon. Have you ever used hormonal birth control before?
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Post by maggiesara on Aug 8, 2014 17:48:20 GMT -5
(watching as all the gentlemen in the room suddenly remember urgent dental appointments and practically trip over each other heading for the door)
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Post by historytracker on Aug 9, 2014 4:47:34 GMT -5
Hi there, I can 'weigh in' a little about the vitamins. I think Vitalady pre-packaging is wonderful, a service she does to make things easier, and I forever thank her for being on the front line of bariatric service when there wasn't any. I think her service is still valuable, and I tailor my vitamin needs with a balance of purchasing certain things from her in the dry and/or dosages we need - like D, A, K because I like to support small business owners as a general practice. I use a regular multi-vitamin, often the house brand from Walmart, CVS, etc. I also buy my calcium citrate, magnesium, E, Bcomplex this way too. Those are what I take, and I have my labs done regularly to monitor what else I might need. I have also used pre-natal as a multi (more of the good stuff for ladies). I use Proferrin (heme iron) which I order online. You never have to apologize for writing 'too long' (says the novel writer poster)! I think you're off to a great start, not just in what you are taking in (protein, fluids, vitamins) but your mindset, understanding it takes work, trial and error and some patience with the process as it's like having the digestive system of an infant in terms of how we progress. Keep up the great work! I am still going to use Vitalady. I almost wished I ordered the prepackaged vitamins, but I choose the 3 month supply in chewable form. You know being an old RNY patient thinking I would have to crush my pills. I had no idea that I would be able to take the pills. I think there will be some things I will get from her, but I will order want to research other options. For instance her Tender Iron pills she has me taking 5 for the am. That is too many pills. I would like to be able to get in the right amount of vitamins, but with less pills. Thank you for sharing your vitamins.
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Post by historytracker on Aug 9, 2014 4:55:27 GMT -5
Cindy, I hope you have a really good day and that giving up your peach tea helps because I know that will be tough. Just keep in mind what the more experienced ones around us say, it's probably not forever! I'm planning on attending the support group in Moorestown towards the end of August, but I think it will be mostly those with the sleeve. I agree, it's way too far for a meeting! Besides the people on here are so full of information. Cindy, this is so strange but I'm a former business teacher and past president of the NJ Cooperative Education Association which includes coop coordinators and Structured Learning Coordinators. My job as an administrator is awesome as I oversee all these programs in my district (along with many other things!) I'm really well versed in structured learning and coop, as a matter of fact, my doctoral dissertation was on Option 2 and work study programs. If there is anything at all I can do to help with your program set up or master's, don't hesitate to call me. I'll message you my phone number via Facebook. What a small world... Sharyl, Hi! Have I told you lately how much I appreciate your posts? If not, I do! Your advice on vitamins is great. Though my husband says just get what you need, I want to be smart about it. Thank you for taking the time to write it all out. By the way, you have no idea how much your second sentence in the last paragraph means, it gives me confidence so thank you! Kelly: Wow it is a small world- I got my SLE about 3 years ago and I would like to go back to get the Hazardous certification. I also have a Special Education Certification and I enjoy working with that population in an SLE environment. I am starting from the ground up on this program so currently I have only 12 spots (2 paid internships and 10 SLE) open for our students. I would love the chance to kind of "pick your brain" and get some ideas for recruiting these kids. Of course students are going to want the paid positions, but I need a certain skill set for those jobs. I would also like to do community service for our self contained classes as those students do not get the opportunity to experience service learning and there are some of those students who may be employable. I also manage a school store, but I do not know if I will be doing that this year. I look forward to speaking with you.
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