Call to nutritionist!

I called my nutritionist today for advice on how many calories I should be getting a day and how much protien I should be taking. I found her response a little strange considering things I have read on the message boards that other nutritionists have said. She told me that the protien is only for during the liquid stages and since I am on pureed now not to take it anymore. She also said that calories do not count since you dont go through your life counting calories. She said that this surgery is to give you lifestyle changes and if you are counting calories and protien and fats and carbs that it isn't really making a change that you can live with. I pushed for a bit more info on the calories and she said that after 6 weeks I should strive for 1000 to 1200 a day. As far as the protien I have been working hard to keep that up to 60 grams a day and I think I will continue to do that. I would like to eventually be able to do that with just food though, I am so tired of the protien drinks. Okay enough of my venting. Have a good day. Patty

That doesn't sound right. I'm sorry but it doesn't. I know people that are YEARS out and still doing the protein drinks. You have to watch your calories so that if you start to gain or plateau, you know it isn't what you are eating. Or if it is, you know how to change. My surgeon calls for 50g+ of protein daily for WOMEN. Men is 60g. Protein drinks suck and all but they are for a reason. It's best to keep track of everything. You are a bit early post-op to be going back to "normal" KWIM? I am far from following what I am "supposed" to do. I'm not saying I am perfect but there is a reason for things like protein and specific caloric intake numbers. Post over at the main board...they might be able to clarify the numbers part. HUGS Melissa Lap RNY 8/31/04 391/358/190 Last Weigh In 9/9/04

Dear Melissa, What do the three numbers mean ? ___/___/___

The three numbers are start weight, current weight and goal weight. Patty

Patty, As I canvas these boards, and you talk to more folks- It seems to me that the nutritionists for Bariatric patients need a standard class on how to care for us. I have heard SO MANY different pieces of advice, and they all vary from what I was instructed. You hear.."my nutritionist said..." I am thnking Jeez..how can so many folks have so many different sets of instructions? I am with you, protein is the key to this thing...that and water. So you do what you think is best without doing physical harm to yourself! Denise

It is amazing how many different plans there are out there. I think that I will stick with the protien, it can't hurt. Patty

Protein is CRUCIAL!! IMO I would try another nutritionist. I feel I have an excellent one and she informed me that there is a vital need for a national standard for nutritional guidelines for bariatric patients. "They" are in the process right now of forming task forces to get the ball rolling. The variations of different doctors and nutrionists is astounding. Cindy