Protein a day. How many Protein shakes a day are you usually allowed and do they count as a meal or towards the 64 oz of liquid I am supposed to have each day?

Any advice would be helpful!

I am about to start the mushies, and was wondering the same thing.

It may vary depending on your nutritionist. (I've found a lot of information on her varies from surgeon to surgeon, nutritionist to nutritionist, etc..) However, here is what mine said: Protein shakes never count toward fluid intake for the day. They count as meals. So, my take would be that if you aren't getting in all your protein from meals, you should replace a meal with a high protein drink. That's my two cents worth! Good luck.

The body can only absorb 20 gm of protein per meal, so have your protein spread out over multiple meals...maybe think about getting those protein shots or tasteless proteins to add to meals

I didn't focus too much on the protein until I moved into the solid food stage - before that I was healing and getting in what I could. I have to have 60 grams of protein every day now. Right after surgery, I thought that would be so hard to do, but it hasn't been for me. I don't buy expensive bullets or shots or powder (only did that once). I have a high protein shake for breakfast every day (Dr.'s orders) and then get the rest in with my other two meals. I will admit that there are probably some days that I don't get EXACTLY 60 grams in, but it is always pretty close. I used to worry and fret about it.... but not anymore Good luck to you!!! Becky

Thanks to all for your help & suggestions! I am doing well sticking to the plan but sometimes it gets a little overwhelming. I don't want to screw this up, it's too important to me. I appreciate the support from all.

Hugs,

G'ma

Hi G'ma. I remember when I was getting ready to have my surgery and right after I had it - the whole eating thing seemed sooooo confusing to me. I was being told so many things and it was hard to figure it all out - you will only eat very small servings, BUT you need to make sure to get 60 grams of protein in... WHAT? Eat your protein first and then veggies, fruits, etc.... BUT you are only eating 1/4...1/2 c. or 4 oz. per meal.... WHAT? Don't drink your calories and eat solid protein but you have to have a shake for breakfast every day.... WHAT? I wanted to do what I was supposed to do, but it all seemed so confusing. I was worried that I was not doing "it" right. As time passes and you get used to YOUR band and eating what works best for YOU, it all becomes much clearer. Not saying it is ever easy, but lots of the worry goes away. I always try to do the best I can and work on the things that I know I need to work on... water.... exercise.... good food choices.... Good luck to you. Keep asking questions and getting acquainted with your band. Take care. Becky