Stage III Diet: 5 2oz servings of protein a day; 56 oz of liquid

I am 3 weeks Post-op today and I just have to say that I can not stand this part of the diet. I will admit that it is better than the liquids only diet for the 1st 2 weeks. I am just so bored. I have no desire to have what I am able to have at this point. All I have been able to have is eggs, deli turkey or ham, cheese, tuna, chicken, yogart ( the no sugar low carb kind only, which isnt very good), and skim milk. I can not wait until I see the nutritionist on Monday 5/23. Hopefully she can give me some ideas or suggestions. I have only been on solid foods for 1 week and have 3 more weeks to go to get to stage IV of the diet whi*****ludes more of a variety of foods to choose from. I knew what to expect and I know that it is only for a matter of time but having to do it and live it is a different story. This is definalty not easy. It takes a lot of planning and commitment; it can also be a mental challenge. I would love to hear how all of you are doing at this point and if you might have any suggestions? I would like to make it clear that I am not complaining or having any regrets, I am just trying to express how I am feeling and see if someone might have some suggestions or might be a few weeks ahead and might have some insight for me. BTW, I am down 24 lbs since surgery and have a total weight loss of 38 lbs (pre & post weight loss combind. Thanks for listening! Rachael

Rachael, All doctors give different orders about what you can and can not eat during that stage. When I was to the pureed foods, I had mashed potatoes, baked sweet potato pureed, Cream soups (Cream of Chicken, Brocolli, mushroom, potato, tomato) I would mix up the soup and then put in the blender to be sure that there were no chunks. Also, Cream of Wheat was a good breakfast food during that time. Also I ate steamed squash with onions, it was steamed until is was really soft, I did not blend it up, just took small bites. Maybe you can ask the nutritionist on Monday and see if it is okay to have some of this stuff. I am surprised that you can eat eggs, I guess some can and some can't. I could not eat eggs at first, they made my pouch hurt. Best of Luck but be very careful with your food choices. Rhonda G. Biloxi, MS Lap RNY 03/01/05 240/182/125 -58

I know how you feel and this is the worst part of it all. I remember not being able to have certain foods and wanting them so badly because I was bored with the same old diet foods. We always want what we can't have. Hang in there-soon you will be able to eat somewhat regular foods and won't feel so neglected. I do think that most of my food desires are just in my head. That is hard to deal with. When I want that chip or chocolate I just start drinking my water and watch the scales go down!! Gayle

Your diet sounds exactly like mine was, and I was also alowed nuts, seeds, beans and lentils, cheese (any kind). Hope it helps, but I agree with what someone else said, all Docs say different things at this stage. If your not sure call the office, I call mine at least once or twice a week, and the nutritionist and nurses are always happy to answer any questions. By the way, "WAY TO GO" Billie

Hi Racheal, when I was at the stage you're at now I also ate chili with string cheese on it. This was a great protein source and went down very well. I also like the yoplait low carb yogurt and also the Dannon lite. I eat 1 everyday. Good luck and great weight loss. Keep up the good work. Deborah W. 298/247/?

I am two months post-op and I still can't eat any of the foods you listed. Congrats both on your weight loss, and your tummy's constitution! It sounds like you will be well on your way to all the "normal" foods in no time. Keep truckin on!

Rachael, I understand what you're going through... I felt the same way when I went through that stage. I know you can get through it and it will be well worth it! Your doctor has you on that diet for specific reasons and mentally, it is very tough, especially when you don't feel like eating what you are allowed to have! Hang in there and congrats on your success so far Bonnie