Adding Calories With Small Portions?

[says_simon 10]

I think I'm probably not getting enough calories because I eat so little. Is this a big deal? If I need more calories, how can I add them to my already small meals?

[cheryl2586 3,053]

How much are you eating because calories add up fast.

[elcee 3,340]

Why are you worried that you are not getting enough calories? Creating a calorie deficit is what makes you lose weight.

[Jachut 487]

If you're having symptoms that make you think you need to eat more, then obviously you should discuss that with your doctor.

But you're WAY better off unfilling a little and eating more healthy food - whole grains, fruits, veggies, Protein than trying to add calories the traditional way we're told to when we need to gain weight - with butter, cream etc added to meals. That's unhealthy.

There's also things like Ensure, Sustagen etc. I was told to take these products when I got so thin during chemo but I never did - sugary crap to my way of thinking, but my doctors all seemed to think they were great. Likewise a Protein shake between meals - made with skim milk - would add calories.

[waitingpatiently 250]

I guess we need a few more details. How much are you eating?What are you eating? Are you exercising? When was your last fill?

Looks like you had your surgery quite some time ago, are you just now having these concerns? Or have you been struggling all along?

[says_simon 10]

I need to give more information.

I was banded in 2006 but didn't get it filled until January this year. I am well restricted right now and experience very little hunger. I like it and I'm losing weight. I eat a vegan diet that is nutrient rich and low in fat. I try to take a long (one hour) walk three times a week, and other days I'm walking about 20 minutes with the dog.

In another thread, they were talking about needing more calories than what I'm probably getting in order to really lose weight. Plus they were saying you could create a calorie deficit when you are exercising. It's very confusing advice to me. I like what I'm doing now, but now I'm questioning whether I'm doing things right.

Then there's also the school of thought that says that longevity is encouraged by caloric restriction, even though your metabolism slows down, in fact, because of that. That would tend to justify my current eating plan.

The only way I can see to increase my current calories is to add an avocado on some days, but avocados aren't always available.

[waitingpatiently 250]

Thats better. Ok here's the deal. Everyone on here has opinion about what works best....and if you were struggling with loosing weight, I would suggest you consider something different. BUT it sounds like you are doing well. and have learned what your body wants from you. So I say stay the course.

If in the future you hit a flat spot, then you might want to re think things. shake things up. Change your exercise routine...things like that. But I certainly wouldn't abandond what seems to be working for you.

Just curious, why did you wait so long to fill your band?

[says_simon 10]

I had complications with my band and required two extra surgeries. Right after that I had to take a drug that caused weight gain for a good stretch. I got discouraged because nothing was working and just had it completely unfilled. I tried losing weight in all sorts of ways over the years, nothing worked, and I finally came around to the band again. It's working this time!

[waitingpatiently 250]

I'm glad you are healed and ready to start your journey...this is a great site for support. Good luck let us know how you are doing.

[Jachut 487]

I wouldnt worry too much then, as long as your calories arent crazy low.