Help with people who have had sleeve

[Maury]

I have an enormous hernia involving 3 loops of intestine,sigmoid is compressed. Cant repair until lose wt.. Thus, a sleeve is suggested. Questions: I have had upper quadrant hernia repair w 33cm. mesh&lower quadrant w 33cm. Mesh ,which dehisced,got MRSA, had a wound Vac. I am diabetic.
Word schedule is not in my vocabulary.
I eat mostly 1 meal a day ,at 11 , 12, and as late as 3...I drink coffee,no soda, I like v-8.w celery n lemon... I do drink alcohol occasionally...sometimes daily 1 or2...and then months none...dislike processed foods, though have to on the run sometimes...lately been eating breakfast....have also started keto by pruvitt a powder puts you into ketosis in an hour or so. I am on insulin 2 types +pills....I am getting nervous about this surgery coming up.
I have only Medicare...am still indegent due to losing house and all funds....
After this surgery will need major hernia repair...which is why need for sleeve.
Do you suffer from nutrient malabsorption??
I sweat greatly, drink lots of iced water. It says only half a cup can be drunk...how do you keep from dehydration?
Can you ever eat crabs and shrimp,and have cream,have butter again?? Drink buttermilk? Have wine,or a libation??
What about hanging skin???

 

[missdarmitage]

Hi Maury. You are asking all of the questions I asked at the beginning of my journey. The thought of giving up the foods I love freaked me out at first. But as I went through the process and did the dr monitored 6 month weight loss program, I realized I can't eat the foods I love and live a life that I love at the same time. Some people can, but I can't. So it came down to which I wanted more, food or life? Food is amazing but I honestly only get a few minutes of joy from it daily whereas the rest of my life I get so many more moments of pure unadulterated happiness. No contest. If I have to give up foods I love, I can do that now. But I had to face some crazy demons to get to that acceptance level. The question is, are you at a point where you are ready to get that honest with yourself. Only you will know when you are ready for this journey. But I do agree with Diane that you should be working with a nutritionist and therapist to help you with this. One will show you how to eat and still love the food you are cooking, while the other can help you with the mental and emotional journey to get you where you need to be. Good luck with everything!

Oh, and as far as the dehydration goes, you have to get into the habit of sipping water continuously throughout the day. You won't be able to down a cup of water at once, but if you take sips throughout the day, you can still get your 64 oz and don't have to worry about dehydration.

 

[QueAnd]

Well, all I have to contribute is I had the sleeve on 07/29; I was very comfortable with that, and though it's still very early, I don't have any regrets. Next, @dianeseattle is gonna give it to you straight, no chaser. That's some good info she offered.....please read, re-read it and take it to heart. She's seasoned. I'm a babe in this journey. @missdarmitage also offered a good message. I picked up some tips from it (thanks @missdarmitage).

This is super serious surgery, and willingness to make the necessary changes is a must. In addition, as you know, persons with diabetes have a more challenging healing process, so it is an absolute must that you follow the directions and teachings of your physician and nutritionist. The more you can work on to improve your habits and pre-op health, the better your outcome. Best wishes @Maury and please continue to check in. Oh, and WELCOME TO THE GROUP! (wave)