Question:
10 Months Post Op- How do I know if I am getting enough good quality protein?

For breakfast I have a low carb (2gm) protein (15gm) drink. Same for lunch. I may also have the same as a mid-afternoon snack. Then I usually eat a normal dinner - for instance today I had a couple ounces of steak and a small salad. Some days I may throw in a protein bar. Some days I may have another protein drink as dinner. I have been losing very slow the last few months and I've been trying to figure out why. I used to eat "real" food for breakfast and lunch and then I got lazy and just started grabbing the drinks - faster and easier. But, now I'm wondering if that's what's slowing my weight loss? Maybe since I'm mostly getting liquid I'm not absorbing as much protein as I need? Help. I'm 10 months post-op. Down 100 pounds - not losing but 4-5 pounds a month if that much for the last 3-4 months.    — Margaret G. (posted on June 17, 2003)

June 17, 2003
You need to eat more! The protein drinks should be supplements not meal replacements. You need at least 60 grams of FOOD protein daily.
   — Sharon H.

June 17, 2003
I agree! you definetly need to eat more. There are days where I find myself averaging about 800-900 calories a day, I should be up to 1200 according to my Dr. I am also 10 months out and down 102 pounds. On days when I do reach my 1200 calories they are the days when I find i've really given my all to the "protein" meat, cheese, yogart, protein shakes. I find that I lose more when I eat more. Isn't that a hoot!! Go figure. Also; if you are excersizing you are going to gain muscle along with losing the fat and muscle weighs more than fat. Go onto www.fitday.com and keep track of what you eat on a daily basis. Since we aren't eating as much as we were before I find it very easy to recall what and how much I have eaten throughout the day and track my progress on this site. Good Luck!
   — Irene M.

June 17, 2003
I agree with the other posters - sounds like you need to eat more. Congrats on the 100 gone!
   — [Deactivated Member]

June 17, 2003
IMHO - protein drinks should not be considered meals...but rather supplements to the meals you are already eating...even if it's still 2-3 drinks a day. The only time I would consider a bar, or drink, a 'meal' is if you absolutely have no other options, which does seem to happen from time to time.
   — eaamc