Question:
How many carbs and proteins a day?

Hi. I had Lap RNY in 2005 and I'm close to my 6 years. I started at 323, lost 13 lbs. before surgery, got down to 178, gained to 228 3 years post op, then lost again and have been holding steady for 2 years between 200-204 depending on the shift in the wind. I've been making an honest attempt at tracking my caloric intake and what I discovered is that I don't eat NEARLY enough! I get in about 600 calories a day, maybe 20-40 carbs, and about 60g of protein. Please remind me - what should I be getting in? Also, I am never starving hungry. I drink EAS Protein Shakes 2x/day, usually eat 3-4 times a day, but I'm still not getting enough. What are some additional food ideas to get me to eat more? Thanks in advance! Nicki    — Nicki F. (posted on November 8, 2011)

November 8, 2011
Hi Leslie, I am only a little over 4 months out but with this being so new I know these things like the back of my hand. My doctors never put a carb limit because they never wanted me focusing on carbs. What they did do was request that I was getting 80-90 grams of protein daily and that when I did eat carbs they were complex carbs only (i.e. whole wheat pasta, whole grain rice, potatoes). In addition I was focusing on getting in my protein before I ever thought about carbs. I don't know of any food ideas but I really had to focus on when I was eating, ensuring that I ate every 3 hours even if it meant setting an alarm. That's what I suggest you do to make sure you're eating enough. And definitely make sure you're getting enough fluids - 64+oz. I hope this helps.
   — vparkman1990

November 8, 2011
My NUT told me to have 90 grams of protein daily. It is a chore for me, b/c, I am still not able to consume too much animal protein. Plus, I am deathly afraid of gaining so I limit my intake to less than a cup of whatever I eat at a meal. I try to only eat complex carbs as well as per my NUT. I think 600 calories is too little, you need more calories. Ask your NUT or Dr. Do you exercise as well, I walk 40 minutes daily and I TRY to do weights. I am retiring Nov 30, so I will join a gym as well. Good luck
   — FSUMom

November 8, 2011
There are 3 things that need to be addressed. First is:have you talked to your dietician/nutritionist lately? Second is at 6 years out, you should be eating more than 600 calories a day. At this stage of the game, your body thinks it's in starvation mode. Third: is drinking protein shakes 6 years out isn't that great idea. You should be eating regular food first and using the shakes as a supplement.
   — Kathleen W.

November 8, 2011
You're doing great. Carbs are good and you could up your protein about 10 grams. But 60 is okay, esp during a dieting phase. 70 would probably be better. People who know me will say I sound like a broken record here but, get the book, "Weight loss surgery for dummies". Cheap on Amazon.com Anytime you need a refresher course, it will help. Don't forget to drink your water! Good luck!!
   — lesleigh07

November 8, 2011
I am 7 years out I was 338 ponds lost down to 175 a size 8 and both my surgoen and doctor told me not to lose any more In the past 2 years I have gained back to 225 anda snug size 14. I was so afriad of gaining and it is now happening. I have ask my surgeon the nutrtionist and have been searching for a meal plan that will help me get back to where I was no one seems to have the answers. I have joined Weight Watchers and this is not working either. I am like you eating 600 to 800 calories. It semms no one has a stright answer my dietican says that I willnot lose like I did to me that makes no sence if I eat what I did to lose the weight in the first place why is it not working now. If you ever find out the answer I will be so happy. After all we have been through this is very dishartening.
   — Linda McMinoway

November 9, 2011
Thanks for the responses everyone! I will absolutely pick up the book suggestion. Tracking my food intake has helped me to see how much I actually eat and where I can take more things in. I was so focused on carbs that I wasn't eating. I get most of my nutritional needs from actual food during the day, and it felt like I was eating a ton, which is why I never thought it was a problem. For my medical needs, I actually DO have to supplement with protein shakes still because I have other needs outside of WLS. Thanks again for the suggestions. For the person that posted that she is also having a difficult time, those of us that have been on this journey longer do experience this! Please add me as a friend and we can keep in touch and motivate each other! ☺
   — Nicki F.