I only had to be on a liquid diet for 1 day...why do others have to be on it for weeks ????

My surgeon requires a high protein, low carb diet for two weeks in order to shrink my liver. It consists of meal replacement shakes and protein rich foods (no carbs aloud). I only have to do clear liquids the day before surgery.

I didn't have to liquids at all, just low carb. Surgery in two hours.

I have a very high BMI and I was only asked to reduce my intake by 20% and not to eat a giant meal the night before. Then the usual 12 hours of no food before surgery.

So far I have lost about 20 lbs.

Lucky duck!! Next Monday I start my 2 week liquid diet. I'm so nervous about it. Wish I could just get under the covers and sleep those weeks away. At least I will be busy tho. All 3 of my kids started school today (3, 7 & 8 grade). Plus after school activities. Hopefully that will take my mind off of it some! GL to you!!

Every surgeon is different. I unfortunately have had to be on a primarily liquid diet for two weeks. Mine consists of 3 Protein Shakes a day and then one green salad with calorie-free dressing, plus sugar-free Jello and/or popsicles for Snacks. I'm 8 days in with 7 days left. It is NOT fun.

There are several reasons for pre-op diets. First and foremost, they are meant to help shrink you liver, making it easier for your surgeon to move it out of the way to access your stomach. Secondly, they kick-start your weight loss. I've lost over 8 pounds in the last week on my pre-op diet and many doctors want you to lose 5-10% of your total body weight prior to surgery. Finally, they help demonstrate your commitment and ability to stick to a strict eating regimen they way you will need to after surgery.