Question:
Really worried about stretching my stomach.....

I can eat a cup of food at a time, I have no real feeling of being "full". I do however feel hungry alot. I am used to eating all the time. Any advise on how to stop the wanting to eat all the time? I average about 850 calories a day and I eat the same amount of fat, carbs, and protein. I also need suggestions on a good protein filler (Not a shake! YUK) I am 5 weeks post-op and I feel like a pig. Please advise.... Thanks. :0(    — Debbie W. (posted on November 4, 2002)

November 4, 2002
I had the same problem...Then discovered that it was because i was drinking while i ate.
   — tamitoez

November 4, 2002
A friend of mine told me that after she had her surgery, she couldn't stand the protein shakes, so she would eat 2 tablespoons of fat-free peanut butter a day to get her protein in.
   — thekatinthehat

November 4, 2002
My favorite way of getting in my protein is Beef Jerky. It is PACKED with it. I like it so much I bought my own dehydrator and make my own now..........it sure is a lot cheaper than buying it and WAY cheaper than those nasty shakes!
   — Carolyn I.

November 4, 2002
Jeeze..thanks for that question. I feel the same way. I am 19 days post op and can eat a cup as well. I havent barfed ever..so I am not sure why. I also use the beef or turkey jerkey for additionl protein. I have been eating nutritious stuff but it seems like too many calories. I dun know..maybe this wont work for me.. or i will be a really slow loser..Aloha. Keniki
   — Keniki B.

November 4, 2002
My surgeon says pouch stretching is a overrated problem. ALL pouches stretch some. Dont worry. If you truly eat too much you will be sick. Beyond that try to relax. You will be fine...
   — bob-haller

November 4, 2002
Eat more meat and cheeses for snacks and meals. They are more filling and will stay with you longer. Plus they are protein.
   — Danmark

November 5, 2002
On 850 calories a day, you are not overeating and you are not a pig. Don't worry about pouch stretching-your pouch is designed to stretch some as time goes by, but unless you overstuff yourself constantly and consistently, you will not unduly stretch it. The wanting to eat all the time-it could be psychological, and while it is not hurting you at this point-eventually some day it may. Seek support group help for this one, or even professional help. Do it now before it does get out of hand. I've heard some good advice. Here is one for you: Eat pumpkin seeds in the shell-one at a time, shell them first. It takes so long to do this that you find that you are eating for a while and not eating that much. Same with crabs-you dig for that meat, lots of work, takes up time.
   — Cindy R.

November 5, 2002
Thanks everyone! I have been eating the meat in the can for my protein. I wanted to make sure there wasnt something out there I was missing. :o)
   — Debbie W.