Question:
I really need some input regarding amount of food I am able to consume

   — Maggie M. (posted on May 31, 2003)

May 30, 2003
I hear many, many people ask the same question in my support group, and I have asked it myself: "What does feeling full feel like"? Well, I am still on the soft foods stage and find that with the soft mushy stuff, I don't always get that "full" sensation but a feeling of "I'm just plain tired of eating and chewing", so I stop. However, when trying to eat anything solid (dark meat baked chicken) I truly feel full after just 3-4 bites and VERY uncomfortable. Sometimes I throw it up and still feel full for a LONG time after. I am told that the soft mushy foods pass through so quickly that sometimes it's going through fast enough not to fill your pouch. I wouldn't worry... for refried beans, that does not sound like a lot to me.
   — Happy I.

May 30, 2003
Let's put this in perspective. A little over 1/2 cup of refried beans is not very much. Maybe 5oz? And the first poster is right -- when you get on solids, there will be times you are full after a few bites. I find I can eat more when it's soft and mushy, like refried beans or cottage cheese, but just try some chicken, for example. It's normal to freak, I've done it, but just remember how much you used to eat. Yesterday I freaked becasue I had about 900 calories. It's kind of sick, isn't it? We're both doing fine.
   — [Deactivated Member]

June 2, 2003
Diane: My son had surgery on 5/5/03, and he had the same problem you're having. He didn't have the "full" feeling, and was able to eat a good bit more than what the surgeon's diet plan recommended. About a week ago, he started to have the full sensations more, and has been learning to adjust. It didn't make sense to us, either, that he seemed to be able to eat more one week prior to starting to have that full feeling, but it was the case with him. And from everyone we've talked to, this is a very individual process, and each person's capacities are different. It was recommended to him to start measuring his portions carefully until those "fullness" sensations started. Perhaps that would be helpful for you as well. Good luck to you, and try not to worry. I know it's hard not to, but I'm sure this will work itself out in time.
   — Carlita