Having problems with protein, water, and eating in general

Hi, I'm new to wls and am 3.5 weeks postop. I've lost 30 lbs to date but have stayed about the same for 5 days. My problem is I'm not hungry at all. My Dr. Alexander said if not hungry, don't eat. Therefore, I only eat about six ounces a day. I can handle the no sugar added popsicles and try to get at least one glucerna in me a day. According to Dr. A it sounds like chili is off limits. On one of the postings it said try the chili from wendy's which I love. Says lots of protein, and I actually think I'd like it. Is this too much for me at this point?

Hi Pamela (or is it Pam?), Welcome aboard to the greatest bunch of losers in history! It sounds like you are doing great. I know all about the not feeling hungry thing. That can last quite a while. The one thing I was always told is to be sure and drink the water when you're not thirsty and get your protein. I remember (I'm almost 5 mos post op) having to literally MAKE myself eat (like THAT ever happened before this surgery ). It doesn't sound like the best idea, but lack of protein will slow your weightloss. Been there, done that a few times. Chili may be a little heavy for your new stomach right now. Everybody is a little different, though. Keep up the great work! Laurie

Hi Laurie, It's Pami actusally. So what did you take for the protein? I bought this great liquid protein by TwinLabs before surgery and had no problem getting it down. Now it makes me gag. How did you get your protein? I started drinking the glucerna, but it only has 10 g for every 8 ounce can and is very expensive. I eat cottage cheese, yougurt, and drink one of these. I'm not good at the water either and I always loved water. I'm going to try drinking some of the flavored waters. But my doctor said no carbonated beverages. There are so many opinions. But I hit the plateau and can't seem to get off of it. Thanks for your help.

These docs are all so different it drives me insane. Forgetting to eat and not wanting to eat is a common problem after this surgery My doctor and dietician said to MAKE ourselves eat three meals a day and if necessary use an alarm clock to remind us. He would NEVER let us even think about drinking ensure or glucerna. Just goes to show you. As far as the chili, are you allowed solid foods yet? Everone I know is allowed to eat Wendy's chile. Very good protein choice and goes down easy. Not as hard on the tummy as regular chili because the beef is first boiled, then made into chili. A lot if not most of the grease is gone. Also, if he allows protein shakes, I buy mine at Walmart. I use the EAS Hi-performance powder and mix with skim milk or water. Not the greatest taste but not gritty. Goes down real fast and easy and with water has 20g protein and with skim milk, has 28g. Use only 4-6 oz. liquid so not much to have to drink. I use the chocolate and vanilla. It is 8.49 a can.

Thanks for the tips. I'm on my way to walmart so will pick up the powdered drink. I'm supposed to wait a few more days for solids, but today had to try to eat something. So I grilled a very tender steak and chewed it really well. Ate about 1.5 oz of it. No problem and it was pretty well seasoned (prior to surgery). I don't know if I'll pay later, but it has been over 45 min and no problem. I'm going to pick up some of Wendy's chili also. I have never had any that was greasy or too seasoned. If it bothers me, I'll wait a little longer. But if not, it will help me to start eating. I no this is one of my problems. Again, thanks for the suggestions.

Hi Pamela, my name is Jennifer . My surgery was May 7th, 2003. I can't understand why your doctor said "don't eat if you're not hungry". My doc said I had to get a minimum of 75 grams of protein per day to ensure health. This will also help keep your hair from falling out. If u are having trouble with the protein, as I did for a while, go to your local GNC store. They have a protein powder that comes in Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, and Banana. You mix it with water or milk and it has 3 carbs (mixed with water) and 25 grams of protein. The best flavor I think is strawberry. There were many days I didn't feel like eating much at all, but 8 oz water or milk with 1 scoop of this powder takes care of 1/3 of your protein. Hope this helps. Best of luck, Jennifer G

Hi Pami! My name is Becky Buchholz, from Scottsville (near Bowling Green). I am nearly 2 years post op. You can see my before and after pics on my profile page. Early out I too had trouble getting in my protein. I found, at wal-mart, the EAS Advant Edge LOW CARB premade drinks. They are even tastier than any powder I ever used. Be sure not to get the higher carb ones. My sister got them by mistake and couldn't drink them - too many carbs. It made her very sick. The Wendy's Chili is a good idea, as is Taco Bell pintos and cheese. Very tasty and good protein. If you don't get in enough protein or calories you will hit a plateau like a brick wall. I did, myself, and thought I'd never lose any more. My sister had her RNY on March 3rd and has lost over 100 pounds already. I saw her last weekend at our family reunion in Indiana and I cried! I couldn't take my eyes off of her. When she told me I was her inspiration, I cried again. Two success stories from two sisters who had to find the right protein supplement. I hope this helps. Stick with it. I's so worth it! Lubb, Becky