newbie- is it usual

Hello to all, I just had my surgery a week ago and I read and listen to everyone's stories, but I am trying to get the timing for food and for liquids in, but don't feel like I am getting in all the protein and even water that I should. Is this normal for just a week post op. Does this get easier? What is the deal with cream of wheat. I read on the back of the box it has 23 sugars, is this ok? I tried the oatmeal from the doc office and it was nasty tasting. I talk to myself because my mind says to eat, my stomach says not time or no, and then my right side of my brain reminds me to eat or drink protein. Help I'm so concerned. Cynthia

Hi Cynthia! Welcome to the LOSER'S BENCH! You won't get in all of your protein right after surgery. Your new pouch needs time to heal. Just get in as much as you can. I don't know of anyone that has gotten in all of their protein 1 week after surgery. Oh, and yes, it really does get easier! I am now getting my full compliment of protein in per day and life is good! You'll do fine! We are here for you because we have all gone through this. Keep up the good work, and just take things slow at first! -Joe-

I agree completely with Joe, he's right! I barely got my protein in ..and now..I'm doing much better..but its all part if the journey. I kinda liken it to a newborn...you are re-learning everything..what you eat, how your body reacts to certain foods etc. I'm at 7 months out..and I'm still having problems some days getting enough food..its more my fault now..because I'm either too active...or just not paying close enough attention. Also, making the right food choices and not listening to head hunger. Its all a journey...but, its so worthwhile! I feel so much better then 7 months ago..and goodness all the personal milestones I have reach so far..makes this journey so much "sweeter"! Today, may seem difficult..but you will learn to adjust. For me, the first two months were the most difficult...but this board is sooo helpful that I made it through. I know you will too! (I just ate by the clock early on..maybe you should try that..it was the only way to make myself eat/drink. ) Have a wonderful day... hugs, Kimberly

Hi Cynthia, As the others have said, definitely relax a bit. It's perfectly normal to take while to fall into a routine. it will come with time. As far as the cream of wheat goes, 23 grams is ALOT. Do you like oatmeal? Quaker has newer oatmeal out now in the grocery store called Quaker Lower Sugar...it comes in maple and brown sugar and apples and cinnamon. It only has 4 grams of sugar per serving. I hated oatmeal. LOL called it spackle in a bowl but I love this stuff and eat it almost everyday. It only has 4 grams of protein but I ooomph that up by adding some Carb Countdown milk to it, you could also add unflavored Unjury. Linda

Hi Cynthia - Yes, the 1st few weeks are definitely the 'trial periord'. It's where you and your body are relearning habits. I figured, if I get up at 7am and go to bed at 10pm, I have 15 hours to eat and drink what I need. Well, at the beginning you are drinking everything..so, if you are drinking protein drinks, they count as fluid (or that is what I've been told..), so don't stress too much on the water. I used Crystal Light (24oz/day) with a scoop of Unjury protein powder (20 grams of protein), as my main 'other fluid', with some water when I had time. I would get up, have my 1st 'meal' - what ever that consisted of...3oz of cottage cheese or 4-6 oz of Carnation Instant Breakfast- carb conscience. mixed with fortified milk - this gave me about 12 grams of protein, and I would have the other half as a 2nd meal or snack later in the day. I would wait about 1/2 hr after I was finished my 'meal' and then have some of my C/L...stopping that 1/2 hour before my next 'meal or snack'.. i did a lot of mashed potatoes with melted cheese (adding a bit of protein powder), along with my protein drinks. By day 8, I was getting a minimun of 80 grams of protein, but EVERYONE said I got to that goal quickly... So, if you are having 6 meals a day and are awake for 15 hours, you need to eat, every 2.5 hours..taking a MINIMUM of 1/2 hour for a meal, you have 2 hours until your next meal, meaning you have 1.5 hours to 'drink your fluids'. Cynthia, the worst thing to do is stress yourself. Don't let your mind take over and fill you with fear. Stay positive with all you do and know that you are doing your best and learning new habits daily. If you can drink 24 oz of C/L and 10 of water in a day and still get in in 6 small meals, you are well on your way to obtaining your goals. I know this reply was long and I hope you were able to hold on.. Take care and best wishes, Valerie