Expanding on my embarrassing problem.....

My problem left... but is back again. I *think* it's because I'm eating a LOT of protein (105 - 135 g /day). And my carbs are down to around 6g. I think the protein is binding me up. Can this be my problem? Or just the effect of low carbs? My weight loss increase loves it... but my hinny is complaining A LOT. I'm still trying to get into my doc and I started Benefiber tonight (since it seems I don't get a lot of fiber). Any thoughts on whether or not my eating habits are causing this? Sheryl In the Zoo

I don't know about the protien, if that is causing it. But, I think you are on the right track with the fiber, and maybe you should regularly take a stool softener. I go through phases where I have to take that regularly with my other meds. Get that appointment with your doctor, but it sounds like you are doing what you need to. Good Luck and I hope you feel better soon. Shawn M.

Thanks Shawn. Hopefully I'm on my way. I saw my pcp today and she gave me new medicine. I'm also going to see a urologist, I'm having some retention problems where I can't go because of the catheter I had during surgery. This is causing extra rectal pressure. In the meantime, I'm hoping this new medicine does the trick! Sheryl In the Zoo

Make sure you are getting enough liquids too! Because I eat a lot of cheese for protien I have the same problem and I prefer not to take anything like benefiber or a stool softner (personal preferance) I will eat some extra fruit. It works for me.

Hi Michelle. I wish I could eat fruit - I miss it! I ate an apple once and dumped on it so I'm afraid of fruit. I seem to be really afraid of sugar alcohols. I'm good with water, I get at least 85oz of water a day. What kind of fruit do you eat? Sheryl In the Zoo

I can eat just about any fruit but raisins are the unplugger for me!

Ok... I'm jealous! Sheryl In the Zoo

Hi Sheryl in the Zooooooooooooo..... (how are you?) My WLS told me I'm often FOS. (no need to explain).......... He recommended Milk of Magnesia......and I do eat Quaker Oat Squares every day (about 1/3 cup for fiber. It's a fiber thing for me.............if I don't eat enough I get FOS. (full of.....you know) Try to incorporate more fiber and see how that helps...I also have to watch that I do eat fiber on a regular basis or I get stopped up. Hope that helps! Stacey

Hey Stacey! I think you have a good idea. I occassionally eat Special K w/ Protein Plus - maybe I should do it 1x a day. And if I add in raisins, those act like a natural laxitive. Thank you!!! Sheryl In the Zoo

Yes a high protein diet will stop you up!! But the good news is that you can incorporate protein and fiber! Lot's of liquid too! I think the Quaker oats weight control oatmeal was mentioned last post. It is high in protein and fiber and low in sugar! I eat Total raisin bran when I have a problem and it helps. The raisins are a nat;ural sugar and don't seem to make me sick, but go slow with it just in case! Drinking a hot drink like tea or coffee in the morning also will help stimulate peristalsis of the bowels and helps alot. Decaf is fine as long as it is hot! Hope you feel better soon! Oh and by the way there is always KP's butt bomb as a last resort!! (dulcolax suppositories) Wendy