Question:
I am only getting about 20gm. protein & I am 15 days post-op.

I add protein powder (from the Dr. "pro-mod") and it is 5gm.protein per scoop. We are also adding "just whites" for protein. However, I am FULL all of the time. This is included in my 1oz. of Carnation Instant Breakfast. Not only am I not getting my protein in, I can barely get liquids in, because I am so full that I "hurt" all of the time. I am injecting 2oz. water as I can, into my "JJ TUBE" which is still in, so about 4-5 times a day I manage to inject 6-8oz. at a time in. And after my CIB, I get 6 1oz. waters or juice. All in all, I am finding it very difficult to get in both proteins and fluids. I'm still on clear liquids......any ideas? All input appreciated! Barbara PS-usually, I can only manage about three Instant Breakfasts followed by the 6-1oz. liquids, because I am so full I feel I cannot put anything else in there. (yes, I have head hunger like some of you). Thanks!    — Barbara B. (posted on July 5, 2001)

July 5, 2001
Have you tried any real protein supps? The ones you have avaialble are very low protein, high sugar types. The ones I use are 30g of protein, less than 3g of sugar and will make up with water in 4 oz. Very few total calories, none wasted, & very low volume.
   — vitalady

July 5, 2001
I am 6 weeks post op and also had to drink the carnation instant breakfast but had to mix raw egg beaters in. I could not drink the vanilla as it had so much foam it made me very full. Even the Chocolate you have to let sit for half an hour for the bubbles to go away or they will make you uncomfortable. If you are drinking the vanilla that may be why you are so full. I also had a hard time with water at first. It went down much better as Crystal Light. It seems to have a more soothing feel to it.
   — Carole R.

July 5, 2001
At 15 days post-op, your pouch is still healing. My surgeon explained that in the early days after surgery, protein intake is not as important as having the pouch heal. In fact, the first 10 days, I was on clear liquids followed by another 10 days of "full" liquids (meaning cream soups that had been blended or strained, yogurt, protein drinks, etc.). During the first three weeks I doubt I got much protein. My surgeon emphasized that you shouldn't worry about the protein in the first few weeks. Also, I think most people have trouble getting in all the water at the beginning.
   — Gina E.

July 6, 2001
Call your surgeon. I don't thing they explained how to get you fluids, and protein in at this early stage. The reason you have a G-Tube is to help out while your pouch is healing. You should be able to put liquid protein and fluids into your tube without bothering your stomach. I loved my G-Tube. I didn't have to taste the protein for months!! Please get your protein in, your hair may depend on it!!! --
   — CohenHeart