Question:
ANY OTHER VEGETARIANS WHO HAD SURGERY?

I am not sure of what to eat during the pureed phase other than protein shakes, and beyond that phase to get adequate protein. Also, what is a good flavorless protein supplement that can be disguised in anything eaten or drunk. I would love daily diet samples from other vegetarians to see how they get protein. Peanut butter is so fatty... Thanks!    — PETRA D. (posted on October 7, 2003)

October 7, 2003
How much of a vegetarian are you? Do you eat fish, dairy, or eggs? You may have to rely on shakes for at least a supplemental amount of protein. A lot of non meat proteins are not complete proteins and therefore not great sources. My advice to you would be to see a great nutritionist who can set you up with a good post op diet. You really run the risk of deficiencies if you don't start off on the right foot and being a vegetarian means that you need to be even more diligent about what you are putting in your mouth post op.
   — Carol S.

October 7, 2003
I am practically a vegetarian because of meat intolerance after wls. I get most of my protein from protein drinks, eggs, cheese, beans, high protein cereal, and shellfish. If you are a vegan you will have a very tough time and will have to depend on protein drinks, tofu, soy, and be very dilligent about taking vitamins and other supplements as needed. Some pureed foods are mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, cream of wheat and oatmeal, and cream soups. I'm not sure that peanut butter would be considered a pureed food, but when the time comes to introduce it into your diet I would definitely not let the fat content discourage you. It is an excellent source of protein and it contains "good" fat, mostly unsaturated fat and more importantly contains those essential fatty acids. I agree with Carol about finding a good dietician who can monitor your progress after surgery.
   — Kristen S.

October 7, 2003
I am not officially a vegetarian, but may as well be except for the occasional piece of pepperoni on a pizza! I get my protein from cottage cheese and yogurt, with shakes. Typical day is shake for bfast, cottage cheese, yogurt and fruit for lunch and dinner from the table with the rest of my family with a yogurt on the side. Good luck!
   — Laura B.

October 7, 2003
I am not a vegetarian, but used to be (preop by many years). I would highly suggest contacting your local 7th day adventist church and buying one of their dietary books. They go into great detail on how to obtain meatless complete proteins. Wonderful (and no I'm not an adventist, but love their information on diets)! As an alternative to peanut butter I would suggest almond or walnut butter. Much better for you. Not because of the fat, but because of the protein and carb ratio :>)
   — [Deactivated Member]