Inner Surfer Girl

I eat most of my nutrition except for a periodic V8. I put protein powder in oatmeal. Now, I generally only drink protein shakes for convenience. To add: especially when I travel.

What does your NUT suggest? You MAY not be eating enough to support your exercise level. You also may want to increase your protein.

Even if it's your OWN pool it can have germs. I was told no immersion in Water (swimming, bath, etc), until my incisions had closed over. Definitely talk to your surgeon.

I forgot about the new Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Quest bars, they are really good, too.

@@JT Edmiston, how are you doing?

You really need to be sipping all day and not waiting 4 hours between shakes if you are getting that little protein and fluid,

Quest Smore Quest Double chocolate Power Crunch Bars

For clear Protein try ProtiDiet liquid beverage concentrates or Isopure. Just keep sipping. Whether you really like it or not you have got to stay hydrated and get your protein in. This early out I wouldn't really worry about what is a meal or a snack. Just keep sipping.

I started with my PCP. Actually, he was the one who talked me into just exploring the idea. He referred me to an awesome surgeon at an awesome practice and they took it from there. I never looked back.

I was prescribed one for 6 months. I quit taking it then and haven't needed it since. Have you talked to your PCP? My understanding is that it isn't a good idea to use them long-term unless you really need them.

What shakes have you tried? Is it the smell, taste, or texture, or volume that gives you difficulties? If it is the smell, try sipping from something with a lid. If it is the volume, try taking smaller sips. If it is the taste or texture, try some different shakes. Have you tried: Premier Protein? Syntrax nectar? ProtiDiet liquid beverage concentrates?

Protein is critical for healing. If you don't get enough protein your body will be slow in healing.

Is normal, at 8 weeks post op I was the same. You don't need 100 gr of protein a day-not a this stage any way. That's the equivalent of 3 medium chicken breasts. You will get gradually better as the swelling goes down. I am 14 weeks out and I m still having problems eating more than 600 cal a day. 100 gr of protein is expected from you at the end of your 2 year journey. You do need to drink Water but again take it slowly. Actually, my surgeon expected me to get at least 100 grams a day starting the day I got home from surgery (the day after surgery) and every day after that for the rest of my life. He has been right about everything so far. I credit getting enough protein with the ease of my recovery and my progress so far.

I said sliced tomatoes.I said trash can. @@LipstickLady, I can't wait to get together someday. I am going to treat you to a delicious bowl of cottage cheese!

I know this surgeon seems to have a radically different approach, but for me, getting enough protein in early was a key to my easy recovery and success so far. Protein is critical for healing and for weight loss. If you go without protein for a couple of weeks you are going to feel awful.

I just noticed this thread is from 2011!

I don't see any reason to cut back pre-op except maybe to practice not drinking with meals.

You definitely need more than 120 calories. You need at least 64 oz of Fluid and to reach your Protein target (mine is 100 grams a day). At 8 weeks out you should be cleared for most foods. Have you talked to your NUT and/or your surgeon about your challenges. Whether you feel like it or not, you have to eat. If you need to sip protein shakes all day, then sip protein shakes all day. Dehydration and malnutrition will not help you heal or lose weight.

You aren't a failure. I am not a failure. Our bodies needs are just not compatible with the modern food-abundant society. We evolved to survive times of famine. Unfortunately (or fortunately) most of us in developed countries will never have to experience true famine. Our bodies are not aware of this.

I said sliced tomatoes.

Personally, it does depend on your lifestyle and your wardrobe needs. I am not working and have spent all summer in the pool, so as long as I have a bathing suit that fits, I am happy. I am returning to the workforce so to prepare I am getting some things altered, buying some new (mostly sales and inexpensive basics), and will probably get some clothes made. I have a long way to go so anticipate this is going to be a constant process for a while since my body is a moving target.

I don't worry about it. It sounds like you are overthinking this. Just track the protein and fluids. To me it doesn't matter what you call it.

This is a great question for your surgeon. Unless you are doing something crazy like not following your post-op plan, taking steroids or NSAIDS, then I wouldn't worry about leaks at all. They really are pretty rare.

This isn't the time for restriction. Focus on what you can have, instead of can't, and use it.

I am over a year out and have had pizza maybe three times. It is not normally part of my life now. Even then it is toppings only or really thin crust. I haven't had orange juice or Pepsi nor do I intend too. I would eat a small orange before I would drink orange juice. Try the Syntrax fuzzy navel, ProtiDiet liquid beverage concentrate, GNC Lean shake orange cream, crystal light, or something similar instead of orange juice.