need to gain weight after surgery

Hi....   I had my surgery in March 06 and have gone from 240 down to 115.  I feel great, but my family doc thinks I have lost too much weight and wants me to gain some back.  She would like to see me back at 120-130 lbs.  (I'm 5'1").   Is there anything else I can do to gain some back besides using protein shakes??   It's probably mental, but I have a hard time with shakes now since I had to live off them for months after surgery!  All my blood work has been great with the exception of potassium...taking supplements now cause I can't seem to keep it at a normal level.  Thanks for any advice you might be able to provide. Carol

Are you still losing? Have you found a calorie and exercise balance that allows you to maintain your calories? Do  YOU think you need to gain weight? At 115# you are normal for weight (BMI 21.7). If you still want to gain weight: Go back to basics - document your intake using one of the on-line trackers.  To gain weight, add 3-500 calories per day, to gain approx 1 lb. per week. To maintain weight - keep your calories the same (and exercise too) If you get a good measure of where you are now and increase calories armed with the knowledge of your current habits, it will help you stay in control of the gain.  By the way, protein shakes aren't necessary - you can eat an extra couple of apples, have a few more ounces of fish, sautee your pasta in some olive oil.  There are many yummy ways to add calories in, maintain good diet habits, and feed yourself a few extra nutrients along the way. Good luck!

Thanks so much for your reply.  To answer you back: I've only fluctuated 2-3 lbs one way or another for months now, so think this is pretty much where my weight is staying.  I personally think I'm ok, maybe a few extra pounds wouldn't hurt.  I think my body LOOKS better at a little heavier weight, but in reality, I just need to firm and tone muscles now I believe.  I'd like to do more of an exercise program but truthfully I'm afraid that I'd lose more weight cause I still can't eat alot of food.  I haven't tried really counting the calories I take in but I will start doing so now.  Thanks again for your reply!!