question for those who are farther out than me

Theresa--- You actually hit on a very point that is important for post-ops. We are different and can't look at things like other people trying to manage their wights or special diets. You'll find that many products that are labeled as low fat are actually crawling with sugar. And sugar is our kryptonite. You just have to read labels carefully. There are tons of great protein bars out there that label themselves as low calories or healthy....and they are loaded with sugar too. My doctor says the magic rule is 3g in a serving (especially where you are now). I know others may say more, but Jackie was right. Anything more than single digits and you are begging for trouble. As to why a diabetic can eat that cereal and we can't you have to remember something. Everything you eat goes straight into your intestine. Even the diabetic has the advantage of his/her duodenum which acts as a flow-control valve to slow the sugars into to the body. It just hits us and whallops us. As always, talk to your doctor, but I respect that you are asking before eating. It is a sign of commitment and a good omen for long-term success. Oh, btw, I saw this at the store the other day...Cheerios (regular--not the Honey Nut) only have a gram of sugar in a cup. That and a tiny bit of milk might work...Again, your mileage may vary. People can and do lose money. Void where prohibited. Sorry Tennessee.

Blair, thanks so much for writing this. I truly do appreciate and value your opinion. Now I have a pretty good idea on the understanding of why we can not eat the double digits sugar. What I guess shocks me is that, with added milk, that Glucerna cereal, which was made especially for diabetics, will have to much sugar in it. Since my 4 week check up is this week, and I will be increased with my food stage, I will be having an appointment next week with my nutritionist. I think we will spend extra time learning how to read food labels POST WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY, just like we did after I was diagnosed with diabetes.

I know some may think all this commotion over cereal is silly but I have always enjoyed it and I suppose I would just like a bit of variety in the limited amount that I am able to eat at this point. I will definitely try the Cheerios when I do try cereal. Maybe adding in a piece of fruit? Or no? LOL!

Thanks so much for all your input. I do appreciate it.

I agree with Blair! Low fat does not always mean it is good for us - and reading lables is really important - the higher up the label the reading you are looking for - the higher reading it has - ie if Sugar is the 3rd item down it is probably going to be very high! And protein bars are another nightmare - but I stick to some very simple rules to help me choose mine - calories 150/160 - Carbs under 10 unless fiber content and then it can be higher as long as fiber number taken away makes it less than 10 and sugar must be under 9 at the very highest! I have seen protein bars that are almost 300 calories, 29 grams of carbs or more - 0 fiber and 33 grams of sugar!  One of those and I would be dumping big time!! It is all trial and error Teresa - and that is why you have us to tell you our experiences. Choices are your own............and whatever works for you...... Jackie -

When I had to go to the diabetic treatment center, I learned that rule about if fiber is 5 or more, you can subtract that number from the carb amount. Good tip if you are a serious carb counter. Which, by the way, I used to be before surgery, when my A1-C got up to 12. Now, one thing at a time, lol. I am definitely learning about the trial and error, live and learn thing. Thanks Jackie

Hi Theresa,

   For me, oatmeal works best. Though I am many years farther out than yourself, raisin bran works for me also. May be in a year or so, you can enjoy that raisin bran once more. Cindy

Hey Cindy. When I went for my 2 week check up, oatmeal was brought into the menu. I have tried it a couple times, of course the low sugar type, and made it with water and added a bit of skim milk in it. It actually went down great, stayed down and tasted yummy!!! Maybe one day Raisin Bran & I can meet again. Thanks for the advice.

Hi Theresa,     Glad that the oatmeal can be something that you like. Glad that I could help. Cindy

Hi, Theresa:  I can't speak for everyone else, but I can speak from my personal experience...in the early stages, I stayed with oatmeal - the Weight Control Quaker oatmeal was my favorite.  I would add a touch (like about a tbsp.) of skim milk after I had made it with water, just to wet it down a little.  For me...worked well.  After awhile, as I could tolerate more foods, I started adding a couple of tablespoons of Kashi Go Lean to Greek yogurts...it gives me the crunch I crave, while combining it with something that is high in protein.  Since you are due to see your nutritionist, I might suggest you speak with her/him so you can be sure to be following what your surgeon wants you to do.   :)

Hey there. I have been trying the oatmeal, low sugar type, and making it like you. I make it with water and add a bit of skim milk. It stays down good and keeps me feeling full. I am definitely going to mention it to the Nurse Practioner on Wednesday at my 4 week check up and to my nutrionist next week. Thanks for the advice.

You are more than welcome!  It is one big learning experience, that is for sure.  One thing I have found, is that I am so keenly aware of foods, their nutritional value, what to have and avoid....and I am still a long way away from knowing it all!  There are a lot of great people on here who have been post op for quite some time and are full of a lot of good information...we are lucky to have them here to help!  :)