Just a question

I went in last Wednesday for my 6 week follow up. While there, I asked how many calories I should be consuming at this point. The nurse practioner told me that to try to get approximately 1000 calories a day. I thought... Ok, that shouldn't be hard. Well, when making an appointment for Monday, to meet with my nutritionist, I was instructed to have a 3 day log of my food/beverage intake. While doing this, I have discovered that I am not taking in nearly as much as requested.

Friday, I took in only 399 and that 45 minute session at the gym had me working off over 600. Yesterday I took in about 420. I am sure that this isn't good but... How can I take in many more calories to meet my requirement if I am just truthfully not hungry. And will this hinder or slow down the weight loss process, not taking in nearly as many calories as you burn off? and for the record, I have NOT been getting in the exact # of protein grams but close to eat, with the choices I have been eating. But I have been taking all of my vitamins and getting in about 100+ ounces of fluids daily.

I appreciate any and all advice. Thanks everyone for reading. And I promise to take all constructive criticism to the heart and to learn from all my mistakes.

Good am Theresa, I always found the amount requested we get in hard to reach especially in the beginning and honestly even now. But, with us burning calories and not taking enough in, it really will start to have an effect on our bodies. If I were you I'd continue closely documenting what you are eating and drinking and maybe do smaller meal more frequently. Set a timer if you have to remind yourself to eat something and maybe pre-plan your meals as best you can so that they are easy, obtainable and ready to eat in a short amount of time. I know its tough but you can get there. Hugs to you..........

Hi Theresa, I am not sure at this far out that you can make 1000 calories a day as it has only been a few weeks- it took me a long time to get to 1000 - I was on 600 some days and 800 on others until I was about 6 months out. So I would not worry too much as long as you are getting in enough protein, water and your supplements. If your weight loss stalls then you may need to look at revising this figure... on days you are exercising hard you may want to make sure that you eat more so you don't get light-headed...... Jackie .

Theresa-- Did you factor in the calories for your protein drinks? That may up your calorie intake. Also, if you want to get in good calories that are high in what you need, have an extra shake. May be easier, counts as fluids, and gets you what you need. Ultimately the answer is that you do need to eat to lose weight.

Hey. Theresa:  As always, the comments from the others are awesome!  My suggestion would be this:  Use FitDay.com (www.fitday.com) to keep track of what you are doing with your nutrition...I live by it!  You may be surprised to find out that you are actually getting more in than you think....especially if you aren't counting in your protein drinks as Blair mentioned (not sure if you are or not).  It will provide you with great information to take to your nut when the time comes so she/he can see what your average consumption is for protein, carbs, calories, etc.  Give FitDay a shot...might be a great way for you to keep track.  Good luck!  :)

Why are you drinking so much water?  Did your surgeon recommend about 64 ounces?  I will get flamed for this, but there is no real benefit from drinking 100 oz. and it will really interfere with your ability to eat.  It will hinder you weight loss if you are working out and not taking in enough calories.  Keep up the good work.  Loris

It is very hard to get the requirements in during the beginning.  Just keep trying.  I would double check with your nut. on those calorie requirements.  I too was only at 800 when I was that early out. 

Hey There.... Looks like you got some great advice so far.  Use either Fitday.com or Sparkpeople and journal your food on a daily basis.  This information will give you LOTS of insight that will benefit you in the long run.  Specifically in the areas of calories, carbs, proteins and fats.   Do the best that you can do.  That's all that anyone can ask for.  Because you aren't very far out, it's important to make sure that you start with protein, then veggies and last carbs (if you are still hungry).  One thing that has always helped me was weighing and measuring my portions.  Not only did it help with the journalling (because I knew how much I had eaten), but also helped with my hunger levels (was I actually hungry) and over eating.  But, you have to make each meal count. You don't say anything about protein supplements.  Do you take in any supplements?  Is your calorie count stricly from foos alone?  I ask, because if I was to take away my supplements, I would only be eating around 1000 calories a day (many days would be less than that).  Still not enough calories and I am over 2 years out. Also, take your time.  Your pouch will naturally stretch out as you progress, which will allow you to take in more calories.   As for the output of calories vs the input of calories....welcome to my world - haha.  It's a constant battle that I fight and I suspect will not win, unless I give up exercising (which I do not see happening in my near future).  I have to be conscience of it (which I am) and do the best that I can do (more supplements). But, in my opinion, it sounds like you are pretty normal.

Sounds like you have been doing an AMAZING job at this point and you should be proud of that. The calorie part of it should certainly be a question for your doctor or his nurse or the nutritionist. Im sure there are ways of increasing calorie intake with the meals you are already eating instead of having to eat when you arent. But good job so far...I think it is important that you reflect and realize how well you are doing! Great Job! Brandi~