Vegetarian needs guidance

I am 8 years post op. Although I have been very successful in my weight loss I always struggle with maintenance. I have just become a lacto-ova vegetarian. I have eliminated artificial colors and sweeteners. I do not eat pasta, white flour or breads. I do worry about the protein so I start my day with a protein shake. Can you give me advice because I still seem to be gaining.

Paula

hi-I have recently changed by eating habits from omnivour to lacto-ova vegetarian-no white flour/bread/pasta/simple carbohydrates but allow myself splenda.  I snack on roasted edamame and soy beans.  I eat a lot of chili or soup with beans and Boca burger crumbles.  I make a nice eggplant or zucchini lasagna with no pasta.  It's new for me so I am experimenting a lot with meatless substitutes.  I seem to be able to get just over 60-70 gm Protein a day.  I'd be interested in some advise as well.-Donna

It sounds like we are doing similar things. I do eat dairy products, fruit and eggs as well. I have not felt that good since I have been following the program. I cut out all the night shade foods which are eggplant, green peppers, tomatoes. Still not feeling great. Now I am cutting out all wheat products. I feel tired and my muscles and bones ache. Feels like arthritis but my doc says no. I don't know if it is from a supplement I am taking or food or meds (which I take very few). I asked for nutritional advice on OH message board but have not received any.

How are you feeling?

Paula

Hi Paula-I have been feeling fine, no body aches or fatigue.  I take 1200 mg Ca++, 500 B12,and  2 chewable complete vitamins a day.  I don't eat fruit but eat a variety of veggies.  I don't use any protein supplements but eat lots of low fat soy and low fat dairy.  I get a lot of ideas from Dr. Dean Ornish's books.-Donna

Thanks for your help. I do a protein shake for breakfast to make sure I get enough absorbable protein daily. I do take iron, B1, Omega 3 and a probiotic daily inaddition to what you already mentioned. I plan to see a dietician who is very involved with the bariatric community in the next few weeks. I get a B-12 shot each month so I do not take a supplement.

Paula