Grad vegetarians?

Before I had my WLS one of the questions I asked my surgeon was if I could be a vegetarian. We both agreed that during my weight-loss phase it would be best to NOT be a vegetarian. But, he was OK with it going forward -- if I get enough protein. Well, now 14 months later, I'm interested in going back to vegetarianism. I'm wondering if anyone here is a "successful" vegetarian (i.e., no nutritional deficiencies, maintaining pretty good weight loss). If you would be willing to share some of you daily menus, that would be wonderful. Thanks in advance. Eileen

Hey Eileen, I was a vegetarian for 8 years, then went to eating meat. I had my surgery in December of 03 (not a veg) and am interested in returning to a vegetarian lifestyle. Actually, a lot of what I cook at home was vegetarian. I use a lot of morningstar and boca products. I feel I get a lot of protein, better quality and lower fat protein, from my tofu dogs and chik patties. I haven't gone completely veg yet, but am working my way to it. Have you read The China Study? It is a book on the connections between health and nutrition. It is pretty interesting and is making me think about actually going vegan (much to my fiance's dismay). It makes provocative links between protein intake (amount and type) to cancer growth. Not that protein causes cancer, but provides an environment that promotes cancer growth. The author espouses a plant-based, whole foods diet, eliminating animal protein sources. It is making me think also about the whole 65-70 grams of protein daily. I think a lot of what we know about nutrition comes from government sources that are influenced by different sectors of the food industry. This Doctor's research questions the dietary guidelines that are considered "healthy" in developed, western nations, including fat intake and protein levels. I am not through with the book yet, but it certainly has my attention. But I don't know how his research fits within my new digestive system. The only thing I can do is try to make changes I believe are healthy and watch my labs diligently. In general, I don't think that vegetarianism is out of the question. But as always, work closely with your doctor in this decision and do your own research as well. Be Well, PJ

I chose to become vegetarian right around Jan. of this year. I had my wls Oct. 2003. I have become pretty lazy with my protein and vitamins, and I can tell the difference. I just had bloodwork done and I'm iron deficient and I have low b12. Since becoming veg, I have zero energy, I'm tired all the time, and I just don't feel very well. I know you asked for successful stories...mine would be successful if I chose better veg. options. I don't have much free time, I work full time and I'm a full time student, so often times I will just grab a vegetarian tv dinner. Most of them have a lot of calories. If you have time to cook and actually take the time to set up a complete menu, you would probably be more successful. I am changing my diet and starting iron supplements and b12 shots. I'm hoping that this will allow me to stay vegetarian and make me feel better.