My NUT suggested I start eating between 1200 and 1500 calories per day, which is a pretty big change from what I've been doing lately. Today is Day 1, and I'm having a hard time tonight.

Some of it is pure physical hunger, most of it is head hunger - literally! Do you ever get a hunger headache and know it's from "hunger" because it feels different than a normal headache? It's like a food withdrawal headache.

I'm definitely struggling with that kind of hunger tonight, and it's taking everything I have not to go eat all of the carbs in the house (wait - is carb withdrawal a thing?).

*sigh*

I can do this. I can do this. I can do this.

Carb withdrawal is definitely a thing! What are you eating? I'm on a pre pre-op diet too but it's not based on calories - it's low carb, high protein and portion control. I asked about calories and she said there's no need to track them. Eat 5-6 small meals with protein (4oz) and veggies (can include starch but I'm avoiding them). It helps my cravings through the day.

Carb withdrawal is definitely a thing! What are you eating? I'm on a pre pre-op diet too but it's not based on calories - it's low carb, high Protein and portion control. I asked about calories and she said there's no need to track them. Eat 5-6 small meals with protein (4oz) and veggies (can include starch but I'm avoiding them). It helps my cravings through the day.

Here's what I've had today (the evening snack is planned for later): http://www.myfitnesspal.com/food/diary/mandikaye

Both options she gave me (1200 and 1500 calories) had 2 Protein shake "meal replacements" in them, which is why I'm doing those.

I'm used to eating fast food 2+ meals per day, so I think my body is just angry at me for the change.

That's actually similar to my day. It took a few days to get over that feeling of headache and hunger. Drink alot of water. You should feel better soon!

When I first starte eating low carb a few years ago, the first week you feel like you have the flu. It is called "The Atkins Flu". It is carb withdrawal and it will stop. Drink lots of Water. You have to get used to the liquids anyway, might as well start!

try some low calorie snacks like some fresh veggies or my favorite thing, pickles!

If you've been eating fast food 2 or more meals/day, your body is reeling from the shock of not getting all that fat/sodium/carbs. It will get better after Day 3-4. Then you'll be amazed at how good you feel shortly after that. Really!