Question:
How much food is normal?

Hello. I'm 9 days post op and I'm very confused on how much I should be eating. (I am aware of how small my new stomach is.) The diet plan my surgeon gave me says I can eat cottage cheese, yogurt, certain soups, etc. But it does not tell you how much you can eat. 1/4 cup? 1/2 cup? As much as you can spaced over 20 minutes? I don't "get" the portions size. If anyone can give me any ideas, feel free to do so! Thank you.    — Jennifer A. (posted on May 12, 2002)

May 12, 2002
Yes, it is a new challenge to listen to your body. My doc also gave no portion recommendations, stating simply, eat three meals, stop when you are full. Have fruits and vegies as snacks if needed. Of course, because I had the Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)I have a pyloric valve which will regulate food into my small intestine, so I have a sense of when I get full. You don't say what type of procedure you had, so that might affect when you feel full. Best wishes on your weight loss journey!
   — merri B.

May 12, 2002
Oh sorry! I had a RNY procedure.
   — Jennifer A.

May 12, 2002
Hi, I am 3 1/2 weeks post-op and I can barely eat 4 oz (1/2 cup) of anything at one given time. I'd start with the 2oz (1/4 c) portions and see how it goes. Good luck.
   — Tina P.

May 12, 2002
How big is your pouch? 1 oz? How long do you want it to help you with your portions? If you want it to help, you might want to eat no more than 1.5 to 2 oz per meal, but several tiny meals, about 2-3 hours apart. Not grazing. Then you'll feel comfortably full, comfortably empty, and not have to think about food until it's time again.
   — vitalady

May 12, 2002
When i went to my classes before surgery they told me i would be eating about 3 tablespoons of food at first if not less....i thought yeah right you must be nuts. But, as it turns out i couldn't even eat that much. Try just the tablespoon size portions to start with and increase from there. Remember the most important thing is to stop when you feel satisfied. Which is different then full for me. Cause by the time you feel full it's too late, your last spoon of food might make you uncomfortably full. Hope this helps.....8 months out down 107....good luck...debbie
   — deborah D.