I recently lost my mother, and I am three weeks out from surgery. I am not looking for any "no no you shouldn't do this" from anyone, I am however looking for advice from people who may have been through a similar situation on what they did to maintain correct "eating" (if you can call it that?)

I feel like I eat a lot of food, now I am told by my family that I just eat more often through out the day but when I do eat I eat very little.(I have also had a few days where I would realize around 5 or 6 that I had not eaten anything yet that day) I am not making the best choices as far as what I am eating, and this is not something I am proud of, as I do not want to waste this new start!! It has been hard though, in the past when I have been depressed I have always had food to turn to, and I am really trying not to fall into old unhealthy patterns. I do find that with my mind else where and trying to arrange my mother's funeral, I am not getting my Protein and I am not getting anywhere near the exercise I need to.

I am thinking I am going to start a food diary, which I am sure I should have done from day one, but with taking care of my mother, and my children I just haven't found the time or energy to do so.

I would love any other suggestions that anyone may have to help me get back on track!

Thanks!!!

Well, you could always go back to liquids for a few days to 'restart' yourself and get some focus. It's so hard to take care of ourselves correctly when we have other stressors, but it's a must! Start tracking. They make a lot of ways to do it very easily, on your phone or my fitness pal. Force yourself to take 15 minutes and do it. It sounds like you know what you need to do (more Protein, more exercise), now it's up to you to take control.

I'm very sorry about your loss.

I'm sorry to hear you lost your Mom. it's hard to concentrate on your needs, while dealing with your loss. A food diary is the way to go. I tally my Proteins and calories daily; It keeps me honest on what's going in. I think it's fine to eat 5 mini meals a day. Try to exercise at least 4/5 times a week. Even if your just walking a few minutes at a time. Exercise helps with depression.

Hugs and prayers being sent your way now!

I'm so sorry about the loss of your mom. When I was overweight, my mom used to say to me, "take care of yourself, cause no one else will". This is your time in life to take care of you. Best wishes for your success. xoxo

Look up "Pookeyism." She lost her mama right after surgery. You may want to chat with her. I'm so sorry for your loss. :'(

So sorry for your loss...prayers for you and your family.

I highly recommend tracking EVERYthing you eat/drink, including the amount of Protein, carbs, and fluids. I use a DietMinder food and fitness journal (I started tracking religiously about 6 weeks prior to surgery to build the habit)....it works wonderfully, and provides space for everything I need to track (food, liquids, protein, carbs, Fiber, medications, and exercise). Be mindful to eat protein first and foremost, and get as many ounces of fluids as you possibly can. In the long run, making healthy choices is all we have....and remember to be proud of yourself every time you make one!!

All the best to you on your journey!

Hi momytothree, I lost my father 6 months ago and I totally hear what you are saying. I have always used food a a cruch. I am currently 8 days post-op and I of course can't turn to food. I have been feeling much better physically, however I just can't find the energy to do the things I wanted to do in my recovery time (I.e organize house etc). I guess it's just going to be a long road.

Hi momytothree' date=' I lost my father 6 months ago and I totally hear what you are saying. I have always used food a a cruch. I am currently 8 days post-op and I of course can't turn to food. I have been feeling much better physically, however I just can't find the energy to do the things I wanted to do in my recovery time (I.e organize house etc). I guess it's just going to be a long road.[/quote']

Ps I would start tracking your food. I use my fitness pall it's a free app online

My prayers are with you and your family. Here's my hug for you:). The food journel is a great tool and resource. I, shocked myself when I started using it. Do you have a nutritionist? That would be a help. Going for walks would help you feel better and give you more energy, also. Hope this helps! Start taking care of you!

I'm very sorry to hear of your loss. As others mentioned, a food journal would be a great idea.

I'm sure your mother is looking down and cheering you on, trying to support you regaining focus and becoming a healthier you.

Sent from my mobile productivity killer.

I am very sorry for your loss. As hard as it seems to worry about yourself at this time, that is exactly what you need to do.

Thank you everyone for the support and advice!!! I'm working on the food diary and doing a mini start over, liquids only then working back to soft foods.