Question:
I have to take Optifast before my surgery - I am 2.5 weeks out

I am having pain in my tummy and bad headaches. How am I supposed to make it on this stuff for another 18 days    — 2boyzmom (posted on August 21, 2008)

August 21, 2008
I'm in the 2nd week of a 2-week liquid diet before my surgery 8/26, and I can empathize with you. I had terrible migraines (or rather one long one) for the first several days, and terrible diarrhea from the Boost Glucose control. Two things have helped: 1) make sure you're taking enough fluids. I started taking lots of broth, SF popsicles, and SF Jello. Besides giving a full feeling you'll also stay hydrated, and you'll get a few extra calories; 2) when is the stomach pain coming? See if it's related to the Optifast. Changing my fruits and veggies to ones with more fiber and adding whole-wheat tortilla as my bread has helped the diarrhea, and again makes me feel fuller. If it's related to the Optifast maybe you should let your nutritionist know - although it's supposedly low in lactulose you still could be lactose intolerant. Good luck!
   — obeseforever

August 22, 2008
I am also on the all liquid diet before my surgery 9/15 and I found that the Atkins Advantage is the protein drink that I have done the best on. No stomach problems and doesn't taste like metal/paper like some of the others. And the headaches. Honey, I had one for the first week also. I guess it is our bodies realizing that it can't have what it wants and is use to getting. Withdrawls lol. The best of luck to you on your journey.
   — [Deactivated Member]