Confused

First of all, I hope the support group went well.  Wish I could have been there.  Hope y'all got some good clothes.  Now, the question:  I posted this on the RNY and men's board, so I'm sorry for the repeat for those that read it over there, but I just want all the advice I can get.  The "little one" is confusing the heck out of me.  I am still trying to figure the little bugger out.  Some meals, I feel full with the small amount, some meals, it takes more food.  I am definately able to eat more that 2 bites my nut talked about or other people talk about.  Some talk about they can only do 2 tablespoons.  I do more than that.  Plus, I don't feel the satisfaction feeling until around 30 minutes later.  I get afraid that I'm not doing it right.  Why can some eat less and some more?  I am getting protein in first and drinking.  Just don't understand.    Michael

Possibly it is what you are eating. Some things are more filling than others and so some things you can eat more of than others. A lot has to do with how fast youn are eating. It takes time for your brain to register the satisfied feeling so that is why you need to eat slow. Of course I say that, but that is the thing I struggle with the most! Try not to concentrate on how much you ARE eating, but how much LESS you are eating than before. That might put it more into perspective.

You're not drinking with food or for an hour after, right?  And like NancyGene said, it just depends on what food you're eating.  The softer it is, the more you're going to be able to eat.  The more you chew it up, the more will fit.  Trust me, if you're eating too much it will let you know -- it will come right back up.  On not feeling full, are you making sure you're watching for a signal?  On me, it's very subtle and then, wham, I've had too much.  It's just like a little cramp that says, you've had enough.  A lot of your hunger even now will be head hunger.  Just hold on to tha****er bottle and chew gum if you need that distraction.  Sometimes my brain just wants to chew !!

Michael, At almost 10 months post-op I am still trying to figure it out. It pretty much all depends on what it is that you are eating and how fast you eat it and how well you chew it. What works well one day doesn't necessarily work the next. My best advice would be to try not to compare your tool with someone else's. We are all different. Just kinda go with the flow and take one day at a time and it all works out as long as you follow the plan. You are doing great. Remember one day at a time. There were some days when I was early out that I had to take 1 minute at a time. Hang in there.

Rita

Hi, Michael.
I'm pre-op, so no "experience" here, but I have suggestions. If you are not keeping a food journal, I'd suggest that you do that. Don't merely keep a list of what you ate, but add how much you ate AND how it made your tiny tummy feel. Also, note how long it took you to eat and how long it took for you to feel satisfied. The suggested time for a meal is 20-30 minutes, I believe. Chew thoroughly, but not until the bite is fully liquid, as it goes through the pouch too quickly and you don't get that feeling of satiety. This is all new to you, so give it time. Be thankful that you aren't having complications, and enjoy the journey. You'll continue to be successful, I'm sure. Be patient with yourself.
Blessings,
Mary

I have to agree with everyone else, it is what your eating that determines how much. Protein that is more dense, feels you up sooner than protein that is soft. Also, some meats will be fine one day and the next, wham, it does not work.

Keep some papaya enzymes around for when you get that stuck feeling and then chew 3-4 tablets and in about 15-20 mins you will feel so much better.

I can eat about 8 ozs of yogurt, cottage cheese or chili with no beans, but only about 4 ozs of chicken or steak. I can manage 3 string cheese sticks at a time.

My clue to fullness is when I hiccup. That means not another bite or it will be coming back up!

Phyllis

Michael,
It sounds like you are doing a great job.  Being conscious of what you are eating is a good thing.  Something most overweight people don't do.  You are thinking with a small tummy now!  You will succeed!  I'm glad you are healthy, happy and now you are wise! (With all this info!)
LOL!
Happy FRIDAY!!!!!

Thanks for the info.  I really appreciate it.  I am not drinking during or after a meal.  And, thinking back, I think it is the different consistancies of foods that is making the difference.  I will take your advice and relax and not compare myself with someone else.  I am excited about the amount of food that satisfies me now.  Y'all are great, Michael

You are an individual and doing wonderful!!! Everyone is different, that is what makes us all unique! So proud of you !!! Can you see my ticker in this reply?

Thanks Salem.  No, sorry I can't see it.  Same stuff.  Did you copy and paste the picture of the ticker?