a silver lining: my answer to hypoglycemia after gastric bypass
Three years after gastric bypass surgery, things were going well. I was maintaining my weight and training for a half marathon. But then it all came to a screeching halt when my blood sugar started plummeting without warning.
The next several years were a nightmare. Trying to find a solution sent me to four doctors and several nutritionist seeking answers to an seemingly incurable problem. Finally, I was referred to an endocrinology who diagnosed me with severe case of Reactive hypoglycemia (also known as post-surgical or postprandial hypoglycemia)
For six years I have fought the battle of hypoglycemia and have had little, if any, control over my blood sugar levels. After taking a prescription medication, (Arcobose, to help with carbohydrate absorption) and adding a thyroid medication I found some relief, but I was still very sick. My life was ruled by unpredictable rises and falls in blood sugar levels. I was unable to exercise or control my weight.
In June of 2014, I made an appointment to see Dr. Walter Pories. Dr. Pories is a re-nowned surgeon in the field of bariatrics and is currently doing research and trials on the cause and cure of post-surgical hypoglycemia. After listening to my story, he explained the "medical and scientific" reasons behind my problem and offered a solution.
He suggested that I replace my vitamin routine with 2 Silver Centrum for Women. That's all. Just 2 multi-vitamins (with iron.) I was shocked that this solution could be that simple. He suggested that it might take up to a year to see any results. However, I began to see result in just a few weeks. Seven months have passed and to my amazement my blood sugars have stabilized. I am able to eat a healthy and normal diet and I was able to discontinue my Acarbose. I did have leg cramps for a few weeks, but they have dissipated. I also added additional Vitamin D several months later for joint pain.
If you are sufferering from post sugerical hypoglycemia, there is a solution. I recommend that you see your doctor and continue to find a solution that works for you. I have discovered that my thyroid medication plays a huge part in regulating my hypoglycemia and I am currently monitoring my blood work and awaiting my nine-year checkup. I highly recommended that you get regular follow-ups including blood work, as well as consult with your doctor or surgeon before changing your vitamin routine, or discontinuing any prescription medication, as well as continued monitoring of your overall health including labs and a bone density scan.
I have currently been taking only 2 Silver Centrum for Women since about June 2014. I started to experience less hypoglycemic episodes within a few weeks. After one year, I was significantly better.
(I also take 6000IU of Vitamin D, and 1mg of estrodial (hormone replacement).The estrodial helps my bones as well as wart off the discomfort of menopause.)It's so worth it, ladies!
My surgeon and endocrinologist were concerned about not taking calcium and I underwent a bone density scan. I am currently waiting a result comparison from a scan that I had done 10 years ago, just after weight loss surgery.
In the meantime, after discovering that I was more at risk for developing kidney stones—not taking calcium citrate—I went back on 1,000mg for a few weeks. My hypoglycemia got worse. I have currently discontinued the calcium, and my blood sugars are more normal. After doing some research I have discovered there is a link between calcium and insulin resistance.
My advise is to do your homework, find a doctor that will work with you in monitoring your health situation while working together to find out what works best for you. I'll keep you posted!