What to expect at meeting w/ Nutritionist

I have my appt tomorrow with the Nutritionist. I was just wondering if you all could give me some insight on what to expect. I am so afraid that I am going to say something wrong and she will not give me a good evaluation and then that could ruin everything. Also, how many of these appts do I have to attend? The nutritionist said she was not sure, but since my insurance isn't paying for this, I need it to only be one appt. I am having to borrow money just to go tomorrow. Thanks in advance. Robyn

Robyn, I never felt the nutritionist made the decisions about the surgery. They know we wouldn't be where we are if we had good eating habits. They are just a guide for getting on the right track even before the surgery. Don't be nervious and be honest with her. That is how you will be on the road to success. Good Luck and keep us posted. Ellen

Hi Robyn! If you are pre-op, the Nutritionist just asks a bunch of questions to make sure you understand the changes you'll be making in your diet after surgery. Unfortunately, Julie Walenta (the Nutritionist who helped many of us get ready) is no longer at PMRI but I'm sur ethey still have good folks. After the surgery, you'll need to share your food diary with the Nutritionist. He/She will make recommendations about ways you can get in more protein (if you're having problems). Basically, they're just checking to make sure you're not struggling. Nothing I've ever said to one of them (pre or post-op) has had any bearing on my surgery approval. No worries. They're there to help support you. Be honest and get good advice. Julie was the one who told me about OptiSource (chewable vitamin for gastric bypass patients). I love it! It's way better than some of the others and I only leanred about it when I told Julie I didn't like the taste of other multi-vitamins. Good luck! Cassandra

Robyn, The nutritionist does have input on getting approval from PMRI for surgery. As long as you understand and can communicate the concept that this is a tool, not the magic pill, that this is a lifestyle change, that'll you'll need to take supplements and eat a well balanced diet, concentrating on protein and eliminating sugar, caffine and alcohol while reducing your fat intake and getting plenty of fluids in for the rest of your life, you'll be just fine. There will probably only be one appointment with the nutritionist for approval, however they expect you to meet with the nutritionist regularly after surgery.