I start my pre-op diet tomorrow- 4 160 calorie protein shakes a day plus clear liquids. I am very nervous about this as I tend to get anxious when I get hungry. Anyone else have a strict pre-op diet? Mine is to shrink my liver, which is enlarged due to fatty liver. I understand that a smaller liver will make the surgery easier, but man, I am not looking forward to this!

Most people are surprised about the pre-op diet and how easy it is to stay on it. Overall, that's the feeling I get from reading all the posts. That was also my experience. I was afraid I was going to feel dizzy, shaky, etc. Instead I felt great! With the constant Protein, your blood levels will be stable and you will not feel physically hungry - mentally it is a bit more challenging. As a result of my non-cheating, my liver did shrink for surgery and the procedure was very smooth. My diet was Optifast 800. 3 shakes/day plus two bars and clear liquids.

Good luck!

That's great to hear. I've been so worried as this is my one shot at the DS- my insurance changes in May and the new insurance won't cover my surgery.

Very hard two weeks for me.... But, you can bet your ___ ___ ___ I followed that liquid diet. I had gone though too much to blow it then (I'm sure you did too). First time in my life I felt actual hunger. I also drank a few hot cups of beef broth and chicken broth each day. Gave me something savory as opposed to just sweet. Plus, it filled me when I was feeling hunger. I had to repeat my mantra often during those days.... "I can do ANYTHING for two weeks.... I can do ANYTHING for two weeks!" Over and over again.

PS. I did stick to it 100%

Best Wishes

Just drink water/unsweetened tea when you are hungry.

I start my pre-op diet tomorrow- 4 160 calorie protein shakes a day plus clear liquids. I am very nervous about this as I tend to get anxious when I get hungry. Anyone else have a strict pre-op diet? Mine is to shrink my liver, which is enlarged due to fatty liver. I understand that a smaller liver will make the surgery easier, but man, I am not looking forward to this!

yes i had 2 1/2 weeks liquid before surgery and 2 weeks after liquids..it was brutal the first 4 or 5 days.....but it is doable..(liquids in means liquids out so keep immodium AD handy).....what got me through it was SF popsicles and a lot of keeping my mind busy, going to bed early etc.....but the main reason i did it was my dr said if he operated and my stomach/liver wasnt like it needed to look, he wouldnt do the surgery.....that scared me to death...and it made me do what i had to do in order to have the surgery i did......dont be nervous....do it and make yourself well...YOU CAN..

I was lucky in that it was only 2 days of liquids. But I ate a lot of Jell-o. Is that permitted on your plan (not red, or similar colors, of course)

Edited March 18, 201412 yr by Postop