A question about eating... (x-post RNY)

Donna's right about the measuring - because if you wait to stop til you feel full then you'll be miserable and have eaten too much probably. Take it slow - eat slowly and chew a lot. No drinking while eating, either - wait 30 mins after before drinking anything. You'll find your comfort zone - we all do.

As for mothers, oh dear I'm so there with you - mine lives with me and for months post-op she swore I was starving myself, watched everything I ate, etc. I finally told her I have surgeons and nuts and everyone else looking out for me, I know how much to eat and when, and she has to adjust her thinking because I never want to be almost 400 lbs again. She's adjusted. Just took some time.

Congrats to you on everything - you'll be fine!!

Kathy

 Hi Elizabeth:

I am an Einstein Bariatrics patient too and I am just a couple weeks away from surgery (I start the liquid diet the day after Xmas) -- so thanks for posting about your experiences.  I'll keep in mind what you've written and the helpful responses too.

Overall, how would you say that you are feeling? I wish you a speedy recovery! Roger

Hi, I had my surgery the day after you. All of my material from my surgeon (we have a whole manual) says to eat 1/4-1/2 cup so you are right on target.

I am only 20 years old and living at home (for the holidays--college) so I know how you feel about your mother. :)

Hope all is well and we can stay in touch!

Kayce

Oh, if you know of any good recipes PLEASE pass them on!

Liz,

The advice you have gotten so far is wonderful. 

I found that I had to eat by the clock and by measurement for quite some time.  "eat when you are hungry" doesn't really work because they cut nerves when they did the surgery and physical hunger can take a long time to come back (head hunger however...well that's just a whole other demon that we deal with from day one!!)

Try to eat every 2-3 hours when awake.  That can be challenging to do.

1/4-1/2 a cup is fine.  For awhile I was only eating about a 1/4 cup of anything...except for some yogurts which I could eat 6 ounces of.

When I started with meats and such I used a scale.  I think I was starting with 2-3 ounces.  And sometimes that was to much.

Also, try not to eat for more than 45 mins....but definately don't rush...and definately try to make your meals at least 20 minutes long considering the density of whatever it is.

Pam