I’m planning on starting this soon, a patient of mine told me about it today and I was curious. However I’m not the biggest red meat fan especially when it’s fatty which seems to be a staple for this diet, I love chicken, eggs, fish, but I’m wondering how I can still incorporate the required level of red meats and fat into my diet. A lot of the cooking I’ve seen on this diet also seems unspiced and lacking flavour. Am I essentially going to be eating steak 3-4x a week does anyone have any recipe recommendations, and can I make flavourful bone broth soup rather than just boiling some bones and drinking it like that ?

Right, good day everyone,
23M/81-82kg/6'0"
So long story short- have ran 3 steroid cycle. First was 2 years ago, last one ended 6 months ago. Not above a gram. No 19nors. Just test + DHTs. Longest cycle 16 weeks, using HCG @1500iu weekly each time.
Pre cycle bloods had me at around 400ng/dL/14-16nmol.
After first cycle (Test @ 350, tapered up 500mg) I pct'd to 800ng/dL (28nmol?). Used Nolvadex @ 40/20/20/20. Also Clomid @ 12.5/12.5/12.5/0.0
Bloods taken 6 weeks after stopping PCT- doubled my Test levels (increased muscle, better diet + sleep) which was awesome! Should have stopped here. Didn't.
After the second cycle, came back at 200ng/dL (7nmol) used same PCT protocol. I was training very hard so I expected this- I actually got way leaner and kept 90% of the strength- despite having this low level (was obviously in a calorie defecit) doing MMA + gym.
PCT'd 3 more times after this:
Nolva only. 20mg/4 weeks. 2 months break- still 7nmol. Still kept same bodyweight so maintenance calories (4.5k)
Clomid only. 25mg/4 weeks. 2 months break- still 7nmol.
Jumped back on Test for 4 months after this.
Then PCT'd again. Enclomiphene only. 12.5mg/4 weeks, followed by a 2 weeks break, then 10mg of Nolva for 4 weeks.
That was the last PCT i've done- still 7nmol following this.
I assumed I was underfuelling- so since then i've gained ~8kg+. My appetite is also insane right now- I never feel full.
Almost entirely fat. No strength increase.
My physique looks like shit, I feel like shit. Have gone so far backwards.
So, I took 3 whole weeks off training pretty much. Did 3 weight sessions, 45 mins each. Nothing else.
Stopped tracking food, but was consuming well over 5000+ calories of almost entirely meat, eggs, cheeses, saturated fats and oils. Yes I know it's hard to say 5000+ calories but remember i've tracked food for 2 years +, I know it was at LEAST 5000 calories.
My appetite is insane.
It's was quite an extreme diet, very high fat, high protein, low carb.
Just re-tested at 4.5nmol-100ng/dL after this rest and refeed and gaining 3kg+ alone during this period. Obviously all fat. No muscle, wasn't training.
I was overtraining and underfuelling for quite some time but i've gained significant weight over the past 4-5 months, but look and feel like shit.
Had abs, veins, strength for 2 years- no matter my test levels, but now it's caught up and it's all gone. Literally back to square 1.
I'm probably going to pin some test P @140mg per week (within the next week), as well as some Tirzepatide @ 2.5mg to shed the shit weight.
Does anyone have any other suggestions before I jump back on TRT+GLP?
Am I stuffed?
I kept between 8-10% bodyfat the whole time I was cycling on/off.
Did lots of MMA, lots of running, lots of weights. Was eating 4000+ calories the whole time, but lost/gained randomly. Usually weight was between 73-77kg.
I wasn't massive, but strong and lean the whole time. Got heaviest at 88kg on cycle (1st) and peaked at 80kg last cycle.
Lost a few KG during PCT down to 73-74kg- but now back into 81-82kg range.
Now i'm likely 20%+ bodyfat at lower strength and i'm suffering a lot.
What's the smart/logical next step to take here? I have got a script for TRT now. But i'm not sure what to do. I'm 23!
Cheers all

I posted about this awhile back and did not get much response but I am gaslighting myself and need people who have gone through this or similar to help me be objective.
I will Try to keep this brief but it's a lot.
-long history of stricturing Crohn's of terminal ileum diagnosed in 2006. First resection Sept 2018, Last resection in April 2022. Surgeon told me he found Crohn's high up in small bowel, could not remove safely, hoped new biologic (Stelara) would take care of it.
-6 month delay in starting Stelara due to GI F up (forgot to send preauthorization)
-July 2022 began having severe upper gastric pain (under ribs and belly button) after even the smallest amount of food, followed by severe nausea and often vomiting. Within half hour multiple liquid BM's undigested food and insane amount of fluid. Began to eat less and less, moved to soft diet, and finally to complete liquids in August 2023
-July 2023-Oct 2023- Weight loss of 20 lbs over 3 month period. Many ER visits needed for rehydration and IV anti emetics and pain meds as could not keep down any oral meds. GI did colonoscopy but only found microscopic Crohn's in anastomosis site (he only took 2 biopsies from that area and nowhere else). CT's done in hospital showed thickening of wall of ascending colon, and collapsed bowel, free fluid in peritoneum. GI dismissed as "not reliable". Fecal Cal slightly elevated. Constant low grade anemia. After 4th ER visit in Oct 2023 they did a high res Ultrasound and I was admitted by surgery department. However, as I was urgent but not emergent, there were no beds available. Was given choice of staying in ER and receiving IV steroids, or going home and following up with GI. Chose home and was given Entocort. Entocort slowed down bowel from 30-50 bm's a day to ten. Did not help pain, nausea, vomiting, lack of ability to eat. After several desperate emails where I begged for help, said I wanted to die-GI ordered urgent MRI, would not change meds or give prednisone without "proof".
-November 2023-Began to experience fatigue like never before. Could hardly keep eyes open. This would be followed by severe upper gastric pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea that went on for days, followed by constipation for 1-2 days and severe bloating, only on the left side of belly which would be rock hard and hot to the touch. Then the diarrhea cycle woud begin again. Always pure liquid, sometimes black, always tons of mucous.
-Went to Mexico to visit my parents for the holidays where I usually feel better but still could not eat. Injecting myself with IM Gravol (anti emetic) just to keep fluids down. I lived off of chicken broth with rice. Saw GI in private hospital. Ordered full workup. Blood found in stool. 3 D CT ordered (could not find a vein for IV after 5 nurses, two doctors, and a radiologist with a vein finder so only had oral contrast) showed inflammation in small bowel, thickening of the ascending colon wall 11 mm, and inflammation of ileum. He wanted to send me to special IBD hospital in Mexico City for MRI but it would have cost 2500$ so I decided to wait till I got home to Canada where it would be free. Treated me with antibiotics for IBS (only available in Mexico and Germany) Zero improvement. I lived off of electrolyte drinks.
-Jan 29th 2024 returned to hospital because I could not keep any oral meds in (pills would be in toilet) also pain was 9/10, high fever, vomiting. Admitted again, but no beds. Left AMA with another prescription for Entocort.
-Feb 12 2024- High fever followed by two days of 40 plus liquid BM's, some of them bloody, all of them black. Husband insisted back to ER where I was admitted immediately. Cortisol levels 11 (close to adrenal failure) very low potassium. Doc said if we'd waited I likely would have died from heart event. Spent 8 + weeks in hospital having every kind of test imaginable. NOTHING showed on MRI, inflammation on CT, lower scope clear, upper endoscopy showed inflammation in esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Negative for H Pylori, negative for celiac. Started on 150 mg of hydrocortisone for low cortisol to rescue my organs. MRI of brain showed small tumour on pituitary. Endocrinologist did ACTH test and was unhappy, kept me on 40 mg of hydrocortisone IV. PICC line insertion went awry when they Discovered I had complete stenosis of veins and needed port catheter surgically implanted. Was on TPN for 5 weeks. Needed pain meds and anti emetics every 4 hours or severe vomiting and diarrhea would ensue. 30-50 liquid bm's continued (they made me write down everything I ingested and every time I had a BM. They tested me for everything. No blood, NO CDiff, no parasites, no infection. High fever 104.5 plus delirium and CRP shot up to 50. Continued Anemia, blood work all over the place, even with TPN I needed potassium and sodium boluses 3 times a day.
-Requested pill endoscopy, GI said no Crohn's, no need for test. Suggested psych evaluation for a fucking eating disorder. Endocrinologist disagreed, said starvation and whatever disease process was causing symptoms was causing my cortisol issue. Psych diagnosed medical PTSD and generalized anxiety disorder (no shit) but NO eating disorder. Fired GI and hired IBD specialist from another city. Re ran all tests, CT showed huge diverticulum on duodenum otherwise clear. Was going to be moved to a ward from a private room. Had a panic attack because I could not share a bathroom and was not about to use a commode. Asked to be discharged after nearly 9 weeks. They were so overcrowded and basically did not know what else to do to help me, so they let me go even though I was still on TPN and NPO. Got a 5 minute instruction on how to insert a butterfly catheter for pain meds, and let go.
-Present-3 weeks later, still on liquid diet, (Boost drinks, blended oatmeal, yoghurt and soup) still on sub q and IM meds. Finally got new IBD doc to order capsule endoscopy and is treating me for SIBO (never been tested) plus set me up with nutritionist and psychologist for support. MRI repeated- totally clear.
I FEEL CRAZY. This is the sickest I have ever felt. It's been almost a year since I chewed food. The pain under my ribs just to the left of my belly button is now constant, whether I eat or not, pain meds barely take the edge off. Sometimes it's so intense I can hardly breathe. I keep passing out on the toilet. I projectile vomit daily, even using Gravol and Pantoprozole, the bile acid is awful. I've been doing tons of research and have learned that GDC and Jejunal Crohn's are extremely hard to diagnose. I have every single symptom and fit the criteria. Does this sound familiar to anyone????

When I first started Ticktick about 3 years ago, I had only ONE list and it was called "To do list" 😆 3 years on, after learning from 100s of tasks floating around in various lists, some of which I didn't even look at for months, it finally forced me to rethink why my life was still so disorganized despite having such a good app.
So where I am now: I created a Weekly Schedule System. It looks like: Folder - Mondays: (List) "Clean up the house" (Tasks): wipe the vases, clean out fridge (List) "Fitness" (Tasks): yoga video, cardio video Folder - Tuesdays: (List) "Work-related readings" (Tasks): titles of books (List) "People to catch up/call" (Tasks): mum, Juliette, Brett Folder - Wednesdays: (List) "Meal Planning" (Tasks): country soup, miso salmon recipe... etc.
This ensures that important 'habitual' activities such as Meal Planning always have a place in my calendar and are never neglected. If plans change, I can always do Meal Planning on a Tuesday instead of Wednesday. Those lists are great, so any time I come across a new recipe, I can just chuck it in the Meal planning list so come Wednesday I'd see new ones to try, and tick them off or leave my favourites as a note. I date each List on weekly repeat (eg. So 'Meal Planning' would repeat on Wednesday and show up in the 'Today' smartlist)
So curious How have you guys' Ticktick habits and layouts changed over the years?! Please share! 💞

My husband has been on a very regimented, very expensive diet program for just under a year now. Very low carb, stresses lean protein. He has been preparing meals that fit his diet which, for the most part, no one else eats.
For example, he make a soup nearly every week which contains an ingredient which is disagreeable to me, so I avoid it. He knows what this ingredient does to my GI system, and continues to make buckets of it. I take that to mean it's not really for everyone else, at least not me.
Our two 20-something kids still live at home and will occasionally eat what he has prepared, but not often. If he makes chicken breasts, he sautes them and they are typically so heavily seasoned that no one else will touch them.
He buys power greens a special yogurt and special cottage cheese all of which occupy space in the fridge. He's never said no one can touch his food, but has acted aggravated when he's out of something that the kids decided tastes good.
For Mother's Day, my son and I made a meal together. Originally, we were going to grill steaks, then decided to grill steaks and chicken breasts, thinking this would leave leftovers for us to work with for the rest of the week.
There were four, beautifully seasoned, perfectly grilled chicken breasts in the fridge when I left for work this morning. On the way home I had decided to use two of them to make fettuccine Alfredo with chicken for the kids and I, knowing husband would likely not eat it.
It has become the norm for husband to decline whatever I make and eat one of his own meals, especially if what I'm make contains bread or pasta. I figured he could eat one of the other grilled chicken breasts, or one of the other prepped meals in the fridge. (Soup, turkey burger meatballs, seasoned chicken breasts etc. the fridge is full)
When I got home I couldn't find the chicken breasts in the fridge or freezer. I sent a group text asking if anyone has seen them. My husband replied that he'd taken them to work with him. (All four)
My reply was just the word boo. He replied "sorry."
I will probably let it go there, because I already kind of feel like a jerk.
At the same time though, the fridge is literally a crowded mess full of food he's prepared for himself for his special diet. Why take something everyone can eat?
WIBTA if asked him to check before using food intended for family meals?
On one hand it feels exclusionary and petty. On the other hand, I'm left eating the leftover fruit tray and my quarter of leftover steak on a night when I got out of work early enough to actually cook a meal. Or I guess I could just make fettuccine with no chicken...

Had an endoscopy last year and they found multiple 3-4 mm round macules in my antrum. Been on a strict diet only chicken soup with vegetables and no seasoning for a year and no improvement, have tried ppis which make me start itching all over my body. Something that wouldnt happen before my gastritis got this bad, also use to be able to take slippery elm but now its making things worse. Tried marshmallow root and it burns my stomach, tried mastic gum and it also doesnt help. Things got this bad after eating overseasoned meat, havent been able to sleep well since. Sometimes i think ill never be able to heal from this, im losing hope

Several people have approached me that they might have endometriosis. Lifelong warrior so thought I would share my tips and tricks I put together for my friends and family to share with you :) Hope this helps someone!
ENDOMETRIOSIS SURGERY FACTS

• EXCISION SURGERY! I cannot stress this one enough. If you have an ablation, it will grow back and likely quick (but consult with your doctors on your case 100%). Excision is when they cut it out vs. it gets burned off. You will have a better success rate and slow rate of growth if they excise. Not all cases can be depending on location so again, please talk with your doctor about your situation. This is not the same for everyone.
• If your doctor cannot do excision surgery. Skip and move on to the next! Trust me, well worth the time to research and find the right doctor. You will thank me later for this one too haha.
• Finding a doctor is stuff. Also tough to find resources. If you cannot find an Endometriosis specialist in your area who does excision, you may need to look out of state, but one tip is exploring gynecological oncologists. Some will take benign cases, but not all so do your research. But it’s a good avenue for help in your area or you want insurance coverage.
• Nanny’s Nook is a good resource for online information regarding endometriosis: https://nancysnookendo.com/
• Dr Seckin’s book called The Doctor Will See You Now is also worth the read (https://www.amazon.com/Doctor-Will-See-You-Endometriosis/dp/1681621126)
• Definitely look into Egg Freezing before doing any permanent surgeries. The ovaries are more intact when there is a uterus in place, so I recommend immediately following any excisions with Egg Freezing if you can and if it’s part of your plans. I found my AMH levels low (1.2) but still retrieved 25 eggs, so never be discouraged if this is your future planning path.
• My Symptoms: I experience bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting as the main culprits. I have irregular periods in regards to the number of days and if it comes or not (even with an IUD). Pelvic pain is probably the worst of all since it accompanies these symptoms and is present a majority of the time. Others may have different symptoms, and there’s many others I didn’t list but wanted to paint the picture of some I’ve experienced.

ENDOMETRIOSIS LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY (WHAT TO EXPECT)
PRE-SURGERY

• List of questions to ask your doctor
• Insurance Information and ID
• Necessary forms or paperwork the doctor requires
• Make sure any medical records are sent that would be relevant

POST-OP PREP

• Eat smaller meals and simple foods days beforehand. If bowel prep is necessary, they also recommend taking a laxative in the days leading up to help prep.
• Pack a bag! Not every surgery is an overnight stay but even if you have a day-of surgery, back an overnight bag. Here’s the essentials:
  • Phone/Headphones/iPad/Kindle/Books
  • Device Chargers
  • Medications that you currently take
  • Glasses (do not wear contacts day of)
  • An extra pair of underwear
  • Sanitary Pads or Always Discreet
  • Comfy pants with light elastic band around the waist
  • Non wired bra
  • Slip on shoes (this is clutch! Recommend slides -https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BL7LJKZW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1).
  • Layers - Sweatshirt, Long Sleeved Shirt etc. - Hospitals are cold!
  • Toothbrush and tooth paste
  • Hairbrush
  • Face wipes, wash cloth, small towel and bar of soap.

SPACE PREP

1. Make sure your bed or couch is prepped. I stayed on the first level for the first 2ish days before feeling well enough to stay upstairs.
2. I used a pregnancy pillow on the bed to help me stay on my back while sleeping and help you feel cozy.
3. Stock the house with foods that will be light for your stomach. Think soups and casseroles! Saltine crackers, broths, rices etc..
4. If you have a raised bed, get a step stool to assist. It’s best to sit on the side of the bed and slowly lay your upper body down while bringing your knees up and over to your back. You will need to use arm strength the first couple of days to get you up and over since you can’t use the abdomen.
5. Water and Beverages stocked at all times. I have a reusable water bottle and avoid carbonated beverages for the time being. They fill you with gas for the procedure so it may make those symptoms worse.
6. Netflix, Kindle, Puzzles, Craft Projects…visits with friends. Whatever makes the time pass, set it up ahead of time so it’s handy.
7. Items to Keep on Hand: Baby Wipes, heating pads, pads/diapers, candles, essential oils, things that smell good haha

BOWEL PREP
This is dependent on the type of surgery you are having, but its good to have Gatorade, Magnesium Citrate (liquid), laxatives and enemas on hand just in case you need these.
ON SURGERY DAY
It’s important to follow the instructions on what to stop taking and/or eating/drinking prior to the surgery. Wear comfy clothes (wide elastic waistband) and slides with cozy socks. Double check your to go bag and breath.
AT THE HOSPITAL

1. Do your check-ins and keep your people with you as long as you want.
2. Make sure to read all the consent forms and ask any questions upfront. Make any advance directives clear.
3. Just try to remain calm as there’s a lot of down time while they do intake. It is about 2 hours of prep before they bring you in for the surgery itself.
4. They will ask you the same questions over and over again, that’s normal and trust me, you want to confirm it’s all being done properly.
5. If you need something for anxiety, they will be sure to give you something if you ask :)
6. You will be wearing a gown, socks, funky underwear and a cool hair net haha wear the gown backward so you keep warm and keep the butt covered.
7. Vitals will happen and the anesthesiologist will come and speak with you to make sure they prep the right meds beforehand. Bring up any concerns here with them!
8. You may be wheeled or walked into surgery. I’ve only ever walked in and laid on the table myself.
9. They will then put the IV in your arm and sometimes will put on a mask, they will then ask you to count backwards and before you know it, you will be awake again!

RECOVERY

• You will wake-up and feel groggy. Totally normal and you will be in a different room. They will likely say a lot really quick about your surgery. Before leaving ask for them to walk through it or see if you can speak with the doctor again when clear headed. RECOMMENDED!
• Your throat will be sore, that’s normal from the tube.
• Just relax and sleep it off if you want, the goal is to be relaxed and pee once before leaving.
• Before you go, eat and drink and pass smoke urine. They’ll provide you with the meds and you’ll be good to go.
• Make sure someone brings you home after :)
• Make sure you have a bag for vomit in the car.
• Bring a small pillow that can be strapped between the car belt and you for maximum comfort on the trip home.
• Pain Med Management: This one is important. I messed up night one and didn’t take it soon enough and was in too much pain so make sure you stick to the schedule the doctors give you to ensure you are comfortable.
• Keep Walking: It seems unnatural to have a surgery then walk, but the sooner you get up and keep moving around the house, the better. Just avoid heavy lifting and immense bending like movements. Stairs are also ok but also consult with your doctor!
• Gas Build Up: I did feel pain in my shoulders from the gas. Just keep moving! It will help get that out of the system but this pain is normal.
• Relax and let people take care of you! Don’t be too quick to recover.
• Keep an eye out for fever, increased vaginal bleeding, or feeling terrible.
• Keep all post op appointments and follow all post op instructions!

ENDOMETRIOSIS MAINTENANCE
Here’s the tips and tricks I found helpful for maintaining my pain and symptoms (GI and back pain related):

1. Pelvic Floor Therapy: This is important for keeping the muscles in your pelvis healthy and strong to maintain your structure and also help manage pain. Consult with your doctor on whether this is right for you.
2. Physical Therapy: I do PT for my back and pelvic floor since it’s all related. We focus on Myofascial Release Therapy to help break up the adhesions and give me more mobility. This helps with temporary pain relief (reduction in number), but that is always welcome :)
3. Acupuncture: I swear by Acupuncture. I don’t know what it does or why, but it works. It’s not a cure by any means, but it's great for relaxation, fertility, digestion, endometriosis, sleep, etc.. I can go on, but it’s not covered by insurance plans all the time so you will need to check and see what you’re able to take on.
4. Diet/Exercise:
   1. Eating high protein, lower fat/carbs (not none just low) helps your body, but overall learn your trigger foods! This will go a long way.
   2. Ginger, turmeric and fennel all help with bloating. I like to drink them in tea form when I’m feeling particularly hard stomached as it’s a good natural way to decrease the bloat. Peppermint also works for some, for me it irritates my GERD.
   3. Chamomile for relaxation
   4. Walking and movement are important. I cannot do anything high impact due to my sacroiliitis diagnosis, so I stick with light yoga and walking.
5. Alcohol/Other Substances: Don’t do it. Don’t touch it. You’ll thank me later on this point.
6. Sleep: Insomnia is a very real thing. I think I went 2 or 3 days at its worst one time and I cannot say enough how important trying to keep the same sleep schedule will benefit you. Waking and sleeping around the same time each day will still feel exhausting but at least you know your body is getting the most sleep it can get.
7. Medications/Supplements:
   1. Ibprofuern: This does NOT work for me. I have GERD and ulcers so I cannot take NSAIDs, but with that in mind, NSAIDs are supposedly the best pain medication over the counter to help you manage it.
   2. Pain Killers: These are AS NEEDED. I try to refrain and leave these for the TRULY bad days which I try to spread out. Not even worth it sometimes, because I don’t like how I feel and sometimes vomit after taking them. But they do help the pain!
   3. IUD/Orilissa: An IUD will NOT do anything. If you are diagnosed, ask your doctor about Orilissa or similar medicines instead of birth control methods. This will not stop the growth, just suppress it. There are side effects and it is only a short term solution.
   4. Linzess: This worked well for me for constipation symptoms when they got severe. Definitely recommend bringing this to your doctor if you’re truly suffering and they have not yet mentioned. I also resorted after trying magnesium citrate
   5. CBD Lotions/Salves: For my pelvis, I use Healing Rose CBD Salve in Orange and Lavender (https://www.thehealingroseco.com/product/orange-lavender-with-chamomile-herbal-salve-300mg-cbd/). For my back, I use a medical grade CBD lotion with menthol (https://cbdclinic.co/clinical-strength-series/). I also use a CBD massage oil from Healing Rose of the same scent when doing myofascial release at home. I also use Somedays Cramp Cream (https://somedays.com/products/period-cramp-cream?variant=42062153842853).
8. Heating Pads and Ice Pack: I have several varieties of heating pads. A cordless travel heating pad (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FPTJL4G?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details), a plug-in heating pad (lhttps://www.hsn.com/products/pure-enrichment-purerelief-xxl-heating-pad-with-9-cord/22188460) and stick on patches (https://www.thermacare.com/ - I use the back patches but reverse them to the front for better coverage). For hot flashes and night sweats (also if you need to relax while anxious) place an ice pack over your chest to help cool or calm down.
9. Self-Care: No joke, massages, facials, epsom salt baths, sound baths, reiki….anything that you find relaxing. Do it. Try it! They also make CBD bath bombs Ive been wanting to check out.
10. TENs Machine: I really want one, don’t have one, but people swear by them (the heating pad linked to MyObi has a TENs version - https://myobistore.com/en-us/collections/my-obi-belts/products/apollo-2-0).
11. Pregnancy Pillow: This one sounds so lame, but I bought a pregnancy pillow for my first endometriosis surgery since I’m a side sleeper to help keep me on my back during recovery. It changed by life! It helps my anxiety and makes me comfortable while sleeping. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08YYVRXLM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)..
12. Heated Blankets/Cozy Blankets: Make yourself feel better with a cozy blanket. Do it, I dare you!
13. Endo To-Go Bag: Includes heating pads (travel, plug-in and patches), medications, balms/salves, essential oils and pads/protection items, change of clothes, wet wipes.
14. Sex Life: I’m single, I don’t have a partner to worry about communicating this issue with at this point, but go slow and communicate given eventually this will have to be a conversation. What I have learned is that if you do have sex and feel pain. Immediately stop! If you associate sex with pain mentally in that moment, it may cause fear in doing so down the line so it’s best to stop the moment you feel any pain occur.
15. Work Life: I work a demanding job so it was not working with the appointments and care I needed to manage pain. Always get FMLA from your doctor for intermittent leave based on your company's policies. This protects you from flare-ups and appointments. Short Term Disability is based on your situation with work so talk with them about any leave of absence for surgery and recovery and ensure the medical providers fill out the paperwork appropriately.
16. Friends/Family: This one is the worst. I have to cancel and make plans all the time based on how I feel. I like to line up a bunch of plans for three months out and do my best to make them happen at the beginning of the month when I know I’m most likely to feel good. I just say I’ll make things up to them when I get better and those who have stuck around have been truly amazing friends, but don’t be upset that some might be over the day in and out of what you’re going through. It’s hard for you and sometimes others and it’s just a part of the relationships we’re meant to experience in life. Most people (unless they have endometriosis) don’t understand it so it can feel isolating, but there’s others out there who know what you’re going through and are willing to chat. Just gotta find them and reach out on social media, online etc..
17. Journaling Symptoms: Guilty of not being the best at this always, but it's good to track your symptoms to see how they work and operate. It helps not only you plan for it, but also your doctors in how best to handle your care. Take photos of things that make sense to show your doctors! Discharge, bowels etc..can sometimes help diagnose or judge with the images.
18. Next to Bed Kit: Make sure your nightstand is stocked with the essentials for your bad days. Makes it easier to access the items you need when you just can’t get up and get it.
19. Squatty Potty: Another thing that is majorly life changing on constipation days! Get one or you can make your own :) Take a stack of books and stack them at equal heights on each side and put your feet up. The trick is making sure you’re in a squat with your knees high to your ears.
20. Clothing: Dressing for this is key but you still want to look cute! Joggers with a stretchy waist are my go to pants, but wide leg trousers with a stretchy waist help with ease of removal but also comfort and brings some style to the look.
21. Pads: I wear Always Discreet vs. pads. I find when you need to wear them full time for incontinence it just makes it more comfortable. They have different cuts and styles so definitely check them out!

Several people have approached me that they might have endometriosis. Lifelong warrior so thought I would share my tips and tricks I put together for my friends and family to share with you :) Hope this helps someone!
ENDOMETRIOSIS SURGERY FACTS

• EXCISION SURGERY! I cannot stress this one enough. If you have an ablation, it will grow back and likely quick (but consult with your doctors on your case 100%). Excision is when they cut it out vs. it gets burned off. You will have a better success rate and slow rate of growth if they excise. Not all cases can be depending on location so again, please talk with your doctor about your situation. This is not the same for everyone.
• If your doctor cannot do excision surgery. Skip and move on to the next! Trust me, well worth the time to research and find the right doctor. You will thank me later for this one too haha.
• Finding a doctor is stuff. Also tough to find resources. If you cannot find an Endometriosis specialist in your area who does excision, you may need to look out of state, but one tip is exploring gynecological oncologists. Some will take benign cases, but not all so do your research. But it’s a good avenue for help in your area or you want insurance coverage.
• Nanny’s Nook is a good resource for online information regarding endometriosis: https://nancysnookendo.com/
• Dr Seckin’s book called The Doctor Will See You Now is also worth the read (https://www.amazon.com/Doctor-Will-See-You-Endometriosis/dp/1681621126)
• Definitely look into Egg Freezing before doing any permanent surgeries. The ovaries are more intact when there is a uterus in place, so I recommend immediately following any excisions with Egg Freezing if you can and if it’s part of your plans. I found my AMH levels low (1.2) but still retrieved 25 eggs, so never be discouraged if this is your future planning path.
• My Symptoms: I experience bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting as the main culprits. I have irregular periods in regards to the number of days and if it comes or not (even with an IUD). Pelvic pain is probably the worst of all since it accompanies these symptoms and is present a majority of the time. Others may have different symptoms, and there’s many others I didn’t list but wanted to paint the picture of some I’ve experienced.

ENDOMETRIOSIS LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY (WHAT TO EXPECT)
PRE-SURGERY

• List of questions to ask your doctor
• Insurance Information and ID
• Necessary forms or paperwork the doctor requires
• Make sure any medical records are sent that would be relevant

POST-OP PREP

• Eat smaller meals and simple foods days beforehand. If bowel prep is necessary, they also recommend taking a laxative in the days leading up to help prep.
• Pack a bag! Not every surgery is an overnight stay but even if you have a day-of surgery, back an overnight bag. Here’s the essentials:
  • Phone/Headphones/iPad/Kindle/Books
  • Device Chargers
  • Medications that you currently take
  • Glasses (do not wear contacts day of)
  • An extra pair of underwear
  • Sanitary Pads or Always Discreet
  • Comfy pants with light elastic band around the waist
  • Non wired bra
  • Slip on shoes (this is clutch! Recommend slides -https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BL7LJKZW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1).
  • Layers - Sweatshirt, Long Sleeved Shirt etc. - Hospitals are cold!
  • Toothbrush and tooth paste
  • Hairbrush
  • Face wipes, wash cloth, small towel and bar of soap.

SPACE PREP

1. Make sure your bed or couch is prepped. I stayed on the first level for the first 2ish days before feeling well enough to stay upstairs.
2. I used a pregnancy pillow on the bed to help me stay on my back while sleeping and help you feel cozy.
3. Stock the house with foods that will be light for your stomach. Think soups and casseroles! Saltine crackers, broths, rices etc..
4. If you have a raised bed, get a step stool to assist. It’s best to sit on the side of the bed and slowly lay your upper body down while bringing your knees up and over to your back. You will need to use arm strength the first couple of days to get you up and over since you can’t use the abdomen.
5. Water and Beverages stocked at all times. I have a reusable water bottle and avoid carbonated beverages for the time being. They fill you with gas for the procedure so it may make those symptoms worse.
6. Netflix, Kindle, Puzzles, Craft Projects…visits with friends. Whatever makes the time pass, set it up ahead of time so it’s handy.
7. Items to Keep on Hand: Baby Wipes, heating pads, pads/diapers, candles, essential oils, things that smell good haha

BOWEL PREP
This is dependent on the type of surgery you are having, but its good to have Gatorade, Magnesium Citrate (liquid), laxatives and enemas on hand just in case you need these.
ON SURGERY DAY
It’s important to follow the instructions on what to stop taking and/or eating/drinking prior to the surgery. Wear comfy clothes (wide elastic waistband) and slides with cozy socks. Double check your to go bag and breath.
AT THE HOSPITAL

1. Do your check-ins and keep your people with you as long as you want.
2. Make sure to read all the consent forms and ask any questions upfront. Make any advance directives clear.
3. Just try to remain calm as there’s a lot of down time while they do intake. It is about 2 hours of prep before they bring you in for the surgery itself.
4. They will ask you the same questions over and over again, that’s normal and trust me, you want to confirm it’s all being done properly.
5. If you need something for anxiety, they will be sure to give you something if you ask :)
6. You will be wearing a gown, socks, funky underwear and a cool hair net haha wear the gown backward so you keep warm and keep the butt covered.
7. Vitals will happen and the anesthesiologist will come and speak with you to make sure they prep the right meds beforehand. Bring up any concerns here with them!
8. You may be wheeled or walked into surgery. I’ve only ever walked in and laid on the table myself.
9. They will then put the IV in your arm and sometimes will put on a mask, they will then ask you to count backwards and before you know it, you will be awake again!

RECOVERY

• You will wake-up and feel groggy. Totally normal and you will be in a different room. They will likely say a lot really quick about your surgery. Before leaving ask for them to walk through it or see if you can speak with the doctor again when clear headed. RECOMMENDED!
• Your throat will be sore, that’s normal from the tube.
• Just relax and sleep it off if you want, the goal is to be relaxed and pee once before leaving.
• Before you go, eat and drink and pass smoke urine. They’ll provide you with the meds and you’ll be good to go.
• Make sure someone brings you home after :)
• Make sure you have a bag for vomit in the car.
• Bring a small pillow that can be strapped between the car belt and you for maximum comfort on the trip home.
• Pain Med Management: This one is important. I messed up night one and didn’t take it soon enough and was in too much pain so make sure you stick to the schedule the doctors give you to ensure you are comfortable.
• Keep Walking: It seems unnatural to have a surgery then walk, but the sooner you get up and keep moving around the house, the better. Just avoid heavy lifting and immense bending like movements. Stairs are also ok but also consult with your doctor!
• Gas Build Up: I did feel pain in my shoulders from the gas. Just keep moving! It will help get that out of the system but this pain is normal.
• Relax and let people take care of you! Don’t be too quick to recover.
• Keep an eye out for fever, increased vaginal bleeding, or feeling terrible.
• Keep all post op appointments and follow all post op instructions!

ENDOMETRIOSIS MAINTENANCE
Here’s the tips and tricks I found helpful for maintaining my pain and symptoms (GI and back pain related):

1. Pelvic Floor Therapy: This is important for keeping the muscles in your pelvis healthy and strong to maintain your structure and also help manage pain. Consult with your doctor on whether this is right for you.
2. Physical Therapy: I do PT for my back and pelvic floor since it’s all related. We focus on Myofascial Release Therapy to help break up the adhesions and give me more mobility. This helps with temporary pain relief (reduction in number), but that is always welcome :)
3. Acupuncture: I swear by Acupuncture. I don’t know what it does or why, but it works. It’s not a cure by any means, but it's great for relaxation, fertility, digestion, endometriosis, sleep, etc.. I can go on, but it’s not covered by insurance plans all the time so you will need to check and see what you’re able to take on.
4. Diet/Exercise:
   1. Eating high protein, lower fat/carbs (not none just low) helps your body, but overall learn your trigger foods! This will go a long way.
   2. Ginger, turmeric and fennel all help with bloating. I like to drink them in tea form when I’m feeling particularly hard stomached as it’s a good natural way to decrease the bloat. Peppermint also works for some, for me it irritates my GERD.
   3. Chamomile for relaxation
   4. Walking and movement are important. I cannot do anything high impact due to my sacroiliitis diagnosis, so I stick with light yoga and walking.
5. Alcohol/Other Substances: Don’t do it. Don’t touch it. You’ll thank me later on this point.
6. Sleep: Insomnia is a very real thing. I think I went 2 or 3 days at its worst one time and I cannot say enough how important trying to keep the same sleep schedule will benefit you. Waking and sleeping around the same time each day will still feel exhausting but at least you know your body is getting the most sleep it can get.
7. Medications/Supplements:
   1. Ibprofuern: This does NOT work for me. I have GERD and ulcers so I cannot take NSAIDs, but with that in mind, NSAIDs are supposedly the best pain medication over the counter to help you manage it.
   2. Pain Killers: These are AS NEEDED. I try to refrain and leave these for the TRULY bad days which I try to spread out. Not even worth it sometimes, because I don’t like how I feel and sometimes vomit after taking them. But they do help the pain!
   3. IUD/Orilissa: An IUD will NOT do anything. If you are diagnosed, ask your doctor about Orilissa or similar medicines instead of birth control methods. This will not stop the growth, just suppress it. There are side effects and it is only a short term solution.
   4. Linzess: This worked well for me for constipation symptoms when they got severe. Definitely recommend bringing this to your doctor if you’re truly suffering and they have not yet mentioned. I also resorted after trying magnesium citrate
   5. CBD Lotions/Salves: For my pelvis, I use Healing Rose CBD Salve in Orange and Lavender (https://www.thehealingroseco.com/product/orange-lavender-with-chamomile-herbal-salve-300mg-cbd/). For my back, I use a medical grade CBD lotion with menthol (https://cbdclinic.co/clinical-strength-series/). I also use a CBD massage oil from Healing Rose of the same scent when doing myofascial release at home. I also use Somedays Cramp Cream (https://somedays.com/products/period-cramp-cream?variant=42062153842853).
8. Heating Pads and Ice Pack: I have several varieties of heating pads. A cordless travel heating pad (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FPTJL4G?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details), a plug-in heating pad (lhttps://www.hsn.com/products/pure-enrichment-purerelief-xxl-heating-pad-with-9-cord/22188460) and stick on patches (https://www.thermacare.com/ - I use the back patches but reverse them to the front for better coverage). For hot flashes and night sweats (also if you need to relax while anxious) place an ice pack over your chest to help cool or calm down.
9. Self-Care: No joke, massages, facials, epsom salt baths, sound baths, reiki….anything that you find relaxing. Do it. Try it! They also make CBD bath bombs Ive been wanting to check out.
10. TENs Machine: I really want one, don’t have one, but people swear by them (the heating pad linked to MyObi has a TENs version - https://myobistore.com/en-us/collections/my-obi-belts/products/apollo-2-0).
11. Pregnancy Pillow: This one sounds so lame, but I bought a pregnancy pillow for my first endometriosis surgery since I’m a side sleeper to help keep me on my back during recovery. It changed by life! It helps my anxiety and makes me comfortable while sleeping. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08YYVRXLM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)..
12. Heated Blankets/Cozy Blankets: Make yourself feel better with a cozy blanket. Do it, I dare you!
13. Endo To-Go Bag: Includes heating pads (travel, plug-in and patches), medications, balms/salves, essential oils and pads/protection items, change of clothes, wet wipes.
14. Sex Life: I’m single, I don’t have a partner to worry about communicating this issue with at this point, but go slow and communicate given eventually this will have to be a conversation. What I have learned is that if you do have sex and feel pain. Immediately stop! If you associate sex with pain mentally in that moment, it may cause fear in doing so down the line so it’s best to stop the moment you feel any pain occur.
15. Work Life: I work a demanding job so it was not working with the appointments and care I needed to manage pain. Always get FMLA from your doctor for intermittent leave based on your company's policies. This protects you from flare-ups and appointments. Short Term Disability is based on your situation with work so talk with them about any leave of absence for surgery and recovery and ensure the medical providers fill out the paperwork appropriately.
16. Friends/Family: This one is the worst. I have to cancel and make plans all the time based on how I feel. I like to line up a bunch of plans for three months out and do my best to make them happen at the beginning of the month when I know I’m most likely to feel good. I just say I’ll make things up to them when I get better and those who have stuck around have been truly amazing friends, but don’t be upset that some might be over the day in and out of what you’re going through. It’s hard for you and sometimes others and it’s just a part of the relationships we’re meant to experience in life. Most people (unless they have endometriosis) don’t understand it so it can feel isolating, but there’s others out there who know what you’re going through and are willing to chat. Just gotta find them and reach out on social media, online etc..
17. Journaling Symptoms: Guilty of not being the best at this always, but it's good to track your symptoms to see how they work and operate. It helps not only you plan for it, but also your doctors in how best to handle your care. Take photos of things that make sense to show your doctors! Discharge, bowels etc..can sometimes help diagnose or judge with the images.
18. Next to Bed Kit: Make sure your nightstand is stocked with the essentials for your bad days. Makes it easier to access the items you need when you just can’t get up and get it.
19. Squatty Potty: Another thing that is majorly life changing on constipation days! Get one or you can make your own :) Take a stack of books and stack them at equal heights on each side and put your feet up. The trick is making sure you’re in a squat with your knees high to your ears.
20. Clothing: Dressing for this is key but you still want to look cute! Joggers with a stretchy waist are my go to pants, but wide leg trousers with a stretchy waist help with ease of removal but also comfort and brings some style to the look.
21. Pads: I wear Always Discreet vs. pads. I find when you need to wear them full time for incontinence it just makes it more comfortable. They have different cuts and styles so definitely check them out!

Hi friends -
After many months of TTC, all sorts of fertility tracking with Mira, switching to a GF diet (already have been plant-based forever) and countless supplements, - I had gotten a bfp 2 days before my missed period. I only tested early because I was SO incredibly nauseous and my boobs hurt like no other. We were so excited because I have PCOS (no insulin resistance, not overweight, no irregular cycles ever, just some cortisol and testosterone dysregulation with mild hirsutism)and subclinical hypothyroidism (T3 issues) so I always was told my chances would be slim to none.
Of course because of that, my anxiety was elevated and I focused on line progression, a lot. Every little cramp I had made me nervous, despite them being mild. Sadly I watched my lines start to fade over the week and went in yesterday for a quantitative HCG draw after some light brown spotting. I don’t have those results yet. But this morning at just about 5 weeks, I woke up to two negative tests (digital and frer with FMU) coupled with the worst cramps of my life and some period like bleeding.
Ironically, today was my intake call with the OB office, and when I answered and they asked how things were going and I told them how this morning went they responded with “oh I’m so sorry, just go to the ER” and as an ER nurse, I know that’s not really necessary. But I’m annoyed because they didn’t leave me any room to ask questions and also promptly hung up after and cancelled all upcoming appointments per my MyChart notifications. I sat on hold calling back for 45 minutes to try and get connected with someone, but gave up with the long wait.
So I’m pretty sad, to say the least, and feeling really defeated. My question is - how long after a chemical/early miscarriage were you able to conceive? I’m looking at the bright side being that at least my body could do this - since I was told forever I couldn’t. But I can’t help but wonder and hope this wasn’t a one off thing.

I tend to run into a problem of having too small of a menu rotation, getting sick of it, and then having to switch things up already. But less than 10g sat fat and trying to have higher fiber meals feels sooo limiting in what I can find and I’m seriously feeling tired of the lentil and barley soups and chicken/bean/salmon rice dishes that have been the main rotation. I’m testing to see how much better things have gotten from a good diet on Friday but having a really hard time not seeing that as the “end point” after which I can cheat more because I’m not about to test. I know it’s not the right mindset but when I start to feel deprived and hungry and don’t want to eat any of the options I just want to give up and order something actually tasty and fatty again.
Please help me out with some new things to eat that are “good enough” on the sat fat aspect while still feeling at least a little indulgent or like the how the rest of the U.S.A. gets to eat… I feel like I can’t even look at any “normal” recipes without it being the daily limit of sat. fat at a minimum :( I really particularly miss “creamy” type foods and cheese and there just doesn’t seem to be a good healthy fat substitute for that.

So my 3/4 year old male cat is completely avoiding water. It doesn't matter if it's a normal bowl, a water fountain, or a drip feeder: nothing has been working. It's gotten to the point where, in the past two months, I had to take him to the vet twice for blockage problems due to him not drinking water. He's been on a strict wet-food diet (primarily soups and broths to which I add a bit of extra water too) a little bit before the first visit, but I NEED to find a water fountain that he'll actually use
For fountains, I've tried a simple stainless steel, a ceramic "cupcake", an edge-less, and just a larger stainless steel one. I've noticed that he likes to lick around the edge and the rim of the bowls, but never the water itself. He also likes to paw around the area, so I'm wondering if he might have depth perception issues?
Please give advice on what to do or what other fountains to try next, I'm getting worried as time passes and I really need him to start drinking water again. I'm not sure what else to think of.

I'm doing a quasi elimination diet. Getting rid of anything processed that may have unnatural preservatives or a million ingredients. I want to know what I'm eating and have less questions if things go ary.
Sample recipe.
Pot roast.
Nothing but cooked down wine to deglaze a few spices and herbs and root vegetables.
That is the level in which I'm simplifying to.
I'm looking for soups and stews mostly. I'm also big on the idea of adding raw or cooked down fruits to bring some natural sweetness to a dish.
Hit me.

We could literally fix our obesity rates but nope, not enough fish and chips. Also being fat is apparently healthy. /S
More at: School lunch programmes that New Zealand could learn from RNZ News
Couscous and sandwiches, stew and pasta salads, miso soup and tteokbokki; countries around the world vary in the ways they provide school lunches, from universally free, to income-based, to no standard system at all.
The New Zealand government has proposed a full redesign of the school lunch programme to be crafted over the next two years.
Ka Ora, Ka Ako, the current lunch programme targets the top 25 percent of students facing the biggest economic barriers. This is determined via the Equity Index, which replaced the decile system.
Just under 1000 schools participate in the programme, accounting for 40 percent of all Kiwi schools and 27 percent of all students.
Before the new programme was introduced, the government was looking to cut costs over the next two years, allocating $480 million to the scheme, which will fund 10,000 pre-schoolers but also result in a menu change from hot dishes to fruit, muesli bars and sandwiches.
RNZ looks at how other countries deliver school lunches for their students.

Free school lunches for all

Finland became the first country to provide free school meals to every child between the ages of 6 and 16 in 1948. Sweden followed suit, serving free meals to children aged 7 to 16, a scheme enshrined in legislation since 1997. There was no specific targeting based on family income, rather, meals were universally free.
South Korea recently introduced the initiative in the last decade, expanding the programme where it was offered in just one province in 2011 to the entire country. A national referendum was held on the scheme and now free lunches are provided to all students from kindergarten through high school.
The central government covers around 67 percent of the cost, and local governments pay for the rest. In 2022, South Korea's Ministry of Education allocated around 7.53 trillion won (NZ$9 billion) to the school meal budget, which included the service's operation costs, nutritionists, ingredients and equipment.
Portion sizes were based on students's ages to provide the appropriate calories. Meals included dishes such as noodles, stir-fried meat, suyuk (simmered pork), tteokbokki (rice cakes cooked in a spicy sauce) and bibimbap (rice with vegetables), which provide protein, vitamins A and C, and riboflavin or vitamin B2.
All three countries believe children should have access to healthy food and be encouraged to build healthy eating habits without having to pay.

National school lunch programme

The Japanese school lunch program, called kyuushoku (給食), is often cited as one of the most successful international examples, ensuring the nation's students receive a nutritious and well-balanced meal daily.

34F 63" approx 200lb MMJ user (for reducing cptsd hyper reactivity), smoke ~10 cigs/day, non-drinker
I'm desperate, something is very wrong with my digestive system. Have an appt one month away but I'm on third consecutive day throwing up nearly everything I've eaten and drank. This has been an ongoing, but worsening, problem for about 2.5y (after I had my last child)
Started out very infrequently and typically while I was nursing baby. Maybe once a month or two, not more than 24hr and then I would be able to eat again. I thought weaning last year would finally help but things have only gotten worse and more frequent. Now, it's more days than not that I can't keep any food in me. Drinks are hit or miss, I try to take small sips, and eat more hydrating foods like grapes, but I'm so depleted dealing with this.
I've suspected gastroparesis but after doing a little more digging today (bc again, desperate) I've just heard about rumination syndrome.
I would say most (~85%) of these vomiting spells come within 30 minutes of eating food. Though sometimes it does happen hours later. Typically, the food is wholly or mostly undigested. 2 nights ago, it was on a completely empty stomach. Woke up just to lurch out bile.
It's involuntary, and I've tried all the things to stop it when the excessive saliva starts (my only warning sign). I've only managed to stop it once or twice with intense focus on breathing which I can't always do as a mom to five. Peppermint helps a little, but only seems to delay the vomiting.
I've tried some diet changes, but nothing has seemed to have an effect. I don't even understand how I'm not losing tons of weight honestly.
BMs are mostly what I've considered normal for my whole life.. but then the occasional explosive "oh my god get me over a toilet right now" pure soup poops as well. I think that's more of a side effect of the main issue though. But maybe it's relevant.
What do I even do though?

I know this isnt exactly TRT, but ive read HCG injections are common place with guys on TRT so i figured some people here would be knowledgable on it. im in my early 30s and have been monitoring my testosterone levels for a few years. I basically fall right on the borderline area of where its recommended to take TRT and as much as I want too Ive been holding out mainly because I know its a life long commitment, and my life generally hasnt been very consistent for a few years. my levels were around 550, i was in a serious accident and even after a little less than year of recovery I tested at around 250, then after 5-6 months of some serious weight lifting/exercise, supplementation and diet I was able to get up to about 350 naturally.
I still think I can continue getting my levels up higher naturally or at least am willing to try a little longer, but after continuing to suffer with some memory issues and brainfog related my previous accident on top of an ADHD diagnoses ive had since i was a kid, my doctor and I came to the conclusion that getting back on adderall again after 10 years off of it, might be beneficial for me. I was hesitant at first, but after giving it a try again it has made a tremendously positive impact on my life right now over all. that is besides the fact that I had to leave town for work for 3 months, which also turned into one of the most stressful periods of my life that also led to me taking a break from lifting and dieting. Im pretty sure my test levels tanked again, I have started experiencing ED which I know can be a side effect of adderall but I never had this problem while on adderall before the 3 month period of stress, which leads me to believe it is more related to my overall testosterone levels not just a side effect. I just got tested again, and waiting for the results, but I was cleaning my room and came across a vial of hCG I had gotten a few years ago and never used. Im really trying to dial down my diet again, and eating healthier after getting back home.
Im more open now to getting on TRT sooner, but probably not until the fall/winter at the earliest and I was wondering if using this vial of hCG might help give me a boost to jump start my testosterone production again. I was just wondering if anyone on this sub had an experience with just hCG alone, and if you had any thoughts, tips or recommendations., ive never injected anything in my life but ive seen on youtube some guys even just stick the needle in their belly, im not sure if thats the same as TRT. do you have to worry about air bubbles or anything like that? Id appreciate any responses, I know TRT especially at my age will eventually be the best option, but hCG is all I have for the time being and im not sure if It will even be worth it or not.
TLDR: been struggling with low testosterone levels after an accident and new medication, found a bottle of hCG in my room I bought online a couple years ago and never used. just looking for any thoughts and tips about hCG alone, as this is my only option for the moment, although i do plan to eventually get on trt asap.

Although I do cook a lot at home, I still have date night with my partner and on road trips hit the occasional drive thru. I'd love if people can share what cuisines and fast food spots have been great for you while taking wegovy.
I've found Japanese is great- sushi, sashimi, miso soup, even ramen, teryaki chicken (even though it tastes on the sweeter side).
I can do a steakhouse but I have a wedge salad and a baked potato with a small bit of butter, but I have to cut off every inch of fat on my steak in order for me to tolerate it. Or Salmon.
I seem to have gone off Italian food completely.
Takeaway/Fast Food: Chik fil a's grilled nuggs and mac n cheese. Wendy's chicken nuggs with nothing else. Pho has been great.
What about you?

I know I need to change my diet. The thing is, I keep eating. I eat even when I’m not hungry. I just eat because I want to eat. I don’t want to eat myself to death. I want a controlled balanced diet. I’m super picky and I hate certain things because of the texture.
I don’t eat: Strawberries Blueberries Oranges Bananas Grapes Cherrys Honeydew Cantaloupe Sushi Seafood Pork Brown rice Celery Asparagus Corn Broccoli Cauliflower Peas Pineapple Tomatoes Potatoes Marshmallows Croutons Pie Peanuts Peanut butter Hot/cold fudge syrup Chocolate ice cream Mints And more
That’s just a small list. I am very picky with the things that I do eat
Bagel with cream cheese but it has to be with the Philadelphia cream cheese in the box and you have to make sure that the bagel is from bjs
I will not eat ice cream that has freezer burn on it at all
I don’t like most Caesar dressing from most places so I will not eat the Caesar salad dressing there.
I feel like I’m not explaining this well enough but I’m just super picky in general and my diet sucks
Right now my diet is
Ice cream and cake for breakfast
Soup for lunch
Ice cream for dinner too probably
So not the healthiest as you can see and I need help. I need to change up my diet. But at the same time. I just want to eat. I just want something to chew on I guess.
My parents aren’t helping either cause we usually get takeout or get fast food. We probably get fast food like 3 times a week. So idk I just need help.

Serious question. I'm on cot and take SSRIs now. Was on Risperdal 2 years ago so I've noticed that I'm super sensitive to estrogen in general. I get bloated more easily and get genital anesthesia from hcg usually after a month of usage. My diet hasn't changed from before though.

Age: 30. Male. Weight: 195. Height 5’11. Smoker. Past procedures: appendix removal. No medication.
Recently within the past year l've had pain in my lower stomach always in the morning when I have a full bladder. Also when I lay down and blow out all my air and make my tummy flat I feel pressure and slight pain beneath my belly button. I've had pain before in my gut on the sides. Stopped eating meat and it helped. I'm just a little worried because my poops have been coming out flat for a while now. And I'm often times constipated. I will say I am lactose intolerant and foods affect my stomach differently. Every morning I drink coffee and every morning I have diarrhea because of it. This past week I saw a parasite in my poop.
Here’s my diet this week. Wed: coffee / water. hot pocket. Frozen pizza later on Thursday. Coffee. Spaghetti with lots of cheese and 4 eggs with sour cream and tortilla. Coca Cola Friday. Coffee. Half Wet burrito carne asada. Tuna earlier in the day with crackers and veggies. Coca Cola Sat. Coffee. Meat soup (caldo de res) then the other half of burrito.. Coca Cola.
Snacks were eaten each day.
I can't afford medical insurance right now. Any advice?

I recently came off of a blast of 400mg for 12 weeks about 5-6 weeks ago. I was taking .5mg adex twice a week with pins. Half way through the blast I got bloods done and estradiol came back 46 pg/ml.
Well I've found blood work from my trt dose of 200mg a week with .25mg adex twice a week with pins and my estradiol was at 25 pg/ml.
After my blast I went back to my trt dose of 200mg and like a complete idiot stayed at .5 mg adex twice a week. I don't know what I was thinking but my diet was out of control and I was drinking more than I should have due to stress from life (wife, kids, and my business).
I was having really painfull nipples for the last 3 weeks and again, like a complete moron without getting bloodwork done, I upped my adex to .75mg twice a week for one week.
A couple of days before the last .75mg dose I was experiencing crippling anxiety, brain fog, intrusive thoughts, suicidal, felt like I was sick but wasn't, overall body aches, extreme dehydration even though I drink a little more than 1 gallon of water a day.
I'm not due for bloodwork yet, but I can get some done this coming week.
Is it safe to assume I have crashed my e2? Nothing else in my routine has changed, nothing new added or taken away. I am also not on any other medications.
It's currently been roughly 10-11 days of dealing with these symptoms and 8 days since my last adex dose.
On hand I have extra test and hcg I can take. I can also get some dbol but it won't be here for a week.
What do you guys think?