Question:
Need Suggested High Protein Diet Info

Hi, I am 4 yrs post-op. Haven't really had any serious complications. I weighed 310 and now weigh 145, however, I noticed in the last 4 weeks that I look a bit larger. I believe I am eating too many carbs. I am trying to go back to basics but from the beginning I had a problem with the protein shakes. I heard of a protein pill that can be taken. If you are aware of it, can you please let me know. Also, I am looking for some high protein recipes with carbs. You are welcome to send me the recipes to my private email ([email protected]). I need help, I believe I am begining to gain weight. It would be ashamed to have such a serious surgery and gain the weight back. HELP!    — Sammi G. (posted on March 22, 2008)

March 22, 2008
You may need to refer back to your protocol sheet from your doctor. I know that I have to watch my portion control, and I'm only 22 months out. Some days it's a struggle, but I do get my daily walk in for my exercise. If it's anything I've learned, it's do the daily exercise, and watch portion control. I don't really have any problems with sugars, so that's a temptation to me too. So I have to make a conscious effort to try to keep these out of the home. I do have an occasional treat of a small candy bar or something once in a while, but normally I try to keep "mental control" over this problem. One thing I've found to be of immesurable help to me is attending local support group meetings. So I attend 3 of them monthly. It might help you too. You can discuss similar problems with other post ops. I've been to recent meetings and seen some new faces. When they talk, these are women who have been post ops for several years, and need a "tune up" to keep their WLS in check.
   — Dave Chambers

March 22, 2008
The OH web site has some recipies, as does Bariatric Eating. The latter's site also offers a book that's excellent, and there are many post-WLS cookbooks offered on amazon.com. I also agree with Dave about the support groups. Our group has recently opened a support group for post-ops who have regained at least 10 lbs; maybe yours has the same? My surgical group said that it's normal to regain 5-10 lbs, but you're 4 years out so I would also suggest you contact your group's dietician to help get back on track. Good luck!
   — obeseforever

March 22, 2008
Yes, I use the protein capsules. They're called "Capsul-Pro" and I get them at www.nashuanutrition.com They work great for me. Good luck!
   — jonedwards

March 22, 2008
I JUST CHECKED OUT THE PROTEIN PILLS AND YOU WOULD NEED TO TAKE TOO MANY A DAY JUST TO GET YOUR PROTEIN IN.THEY ARE NOT VERY HIGH ON PROTEIN.
   — deb44m

March 23, 2008
Hi Sammi, thanks for writing. I am 4 years post op as well this month. I share your concern. I seem to be able to eat more and have gained a few pounds this year. Congratulations to you for losing so much weight and keeping it off for all this time. Kudos to you. Protein shakes and pills I don't think will be as helpful as you think at this phase of the game. I do think diet and exercise will be of great help to you if you will excrete real energy in your exercise. I eat shrimp a lot, which are high in protein and low in calorie and fat. Keep your carbs to a minimum when you eat, but I think meats and a real balance in your diet, and a step back from snacks, with a little jump in water and exercise, you will see what you want to see, your confidence shine again and your body responding to your hard work. Take care. Patricia P.
   — Patricia P