Hi everyone! I'm still in the research stage of the Lap-Band but I have been thinking about better food choices now. One thing that I've noticed about myself is that I probably don't' eat enough, now. I might eat 2 meals a day and almost no snacking. I do drink Water but not near enough as I should. Now, with that being said--I had ankle surgery six weeks ago and haven't been able to walk-but before that I had started for months of eating better & exercising. I kind of put that on hold due to my limited mobility.

So like I said, I had been researching some healthier food choices because I don't eat a lot but I think because I don't my metabolism is probably taking a hit. I was researching Breakfast foods (and mushies for post-op surgery) and saw a lot of people eat oatmeal. I also thought oatmeal was a healthy food for you but after doing some research I've found out that it may not be.

As I've been researching healthy foods and weight loss I've also seen where many people say it is very important to get a good breakfast. I also thought about starting to experiment with the Protein shakes and just having one of those for breakfast because I want to try and cut out bad carbs and even whole grain oatmeal I've read isn't good for you (not just talking about the over sweetened instant packs). I guess I asked about oatmeal because 1.) I like it 2.) I read a lot of people eating it on mushies and 3.) I've always been told how well it does to fill you up or help make you feel full.

Now I don't know what exactly would be considered a healthy breakfast that is low in fat and bad carbs. What is everyone's opinion?

My nutritionist said they make a whipped peanut butter now so you get more volume with less cals and fat. One of her patients mixes it in her oatmeal so she is getting some fiber and protein.

Oatmeal is a carb, yes. But, calorie-wise it isn't bad and it has so many good nutritious elements that if you aren't doing low-carb, it's ok. I know a lot of people do Steel Cut Oats, which are AMAZINGLY good for you and have lots of Protein, but do require a lot of time to cook. I eat oatmeal for breakfast a few times a month, and I use the 100 calorie sugar-free instant packs, then add some crushed walnuts and coconut flakes.

It's hard to do "traditional" breakfast quickly on a very low-carb eating plan. When I did, I fried an egg and melted a piece of american cheese on top. Simple, fairly quick, but it does require working on the stove in the morning

Oatmeal is a complete food - it offers whole grains, Protein, carbs, and all of the amino acids in one meal. Add a teaspoon of fruit (fresh or dried) for some Vitamins and sweetness (blueberries are my favorite). Add 5-8 crushed almonds for some healthy fat and crunch. Add a little ground flax seed for essential oil and a nice flavor. And you have a great and very filling meal.

It's my go to meal when I need something that will fill me up and that is very healthy for me.

As long as you use oats without extra sugar (no pre sweetened prepackaged oatmeal) then you're just fine and it's a fantastic food.

At some point you'll find a study that EVERY food is bad for you in some way. And every food is - you could choke on quite literally anything. You can even overdose on Water. Eat what you want. Eat high calorie low nutrition foods in moderation. Enjoy.