confused about certain "rules"

I've been looking over all my old surgery information, before pictures, diet plans and discussing with a girlfriend who had surgery 3 years ago. The information she was given is very different than what I have so I was curious what info you were given, what rules you follow. The main discrepancies:

1. My info - eat only 3 meals a day. Her info - eat 3 meals and 2 snacks a day. (both - focus on protein first)

2. My info - no carbs until goal. Her info - wholegrain carbs in small amounts after protein consumed

3. She also eats quinoa because it's high in protein, but I'm not totally sure if this is just another carb to avoid?

Water rules and exercise are still the same.

HI there....

1.  I was told 6 small meals per day...so that I'm eating every 3-4 hours, but no more than 20-30 mins per "meal"

2.  Carbs were to be very limited, under 40 per day...but I don't feel good if I eat that low

3.  Not sure on quinoa...have to look into that.  I'll be interested to hear what the other have to say on that.

:)

30 grams including those naturally occurring in fruits and vegetables?

Yes, it was too low for me though!

I actually had issues after surgery with low blood sugar, and after working with my nutritionist and food journal, etc. we found that my body stabilized better with slightly more carbs than normally recommended also.

80-100 g. Protein per day

5 small meals

Carbs in small amounts, no more than 30-40 per day

I was told no rice, pasta, etc, it expands so I suspect quinoa would be out too.

Water: lots, exercise: as I felt like it

My original doctor told me 3 meals a day and no carbs until goal, also.

the NUT who I saw twice basically told me what I already new.  She said 3 meals and a 2 snacks in the beginning as there was no way I could get my protein in with the amount I was eating.  I did 3 meals and sometimes a snack.  I added protein powder to whatever I could.  I have always stayed low carb, but was more liberal during my weight loss phrase.  I ate quinoa and sweet potatoes. No bread, rice etc.   I found when I got to goal and in maintenance I had to cut back on these foods to maintain.  Now my carbs come from oatmeal and blueberries each morning and green veggies with lunch and dinner.  I do eat nuts as well.  I have switched from regular milk to coconut to reduce carbs as well.  I am trying to lose my 7 pound regain and have to cut back to about 800 calories.  I am getting there.  Some eat 5 meals a day others 2.  I think you have to find what works for you.