Question:
How do you get all the needs for a day into your stomache?

I am 3 weeks postop. I am to get at least 50 grams of protein and 9 cups of water in. I have tried to get the protein in with food but if I do that I can't get the water I need in the stomache. I also have to take the vits in also. I just don't get hungry. I could use your input before I call the Doctor. He is thinking about putting me back in the hospital for not having enough water.    — Janet P. (posted on July 2, 2001)

July 2, 2001
I know how you feel. When I went back to have my staples removed. I asked the Surgeon about the fact that I was only getting in my vitamins and my protein. After that, I ate pratically nothing. The surgeon told me to hang in there and continue as I had. He said that eventually, I would be able to get the vits, protein AND eat. He was right. I am now 3 1/3 months post op. I am able to get everything in without any problems. Talk to your DR and let him know of your concerns. Email me if you need someone to talk to. [email protected]
   — Ginger J.

July 3, 2001
It's hard so early post op but that does change. My doc had advised me to get in as much as I could without pushing myself.
   — Lisa B.

July 3, 2001
I get all my protein by supplement, then the other basics by vites & minerals. Then the water constantly, pretty much. At first post-op, I also just forfeited the food. Protein, water & vites--in that order, food if you get to it, you know? But how seriously much water are you not getting?
   — vitalady

July 3, 2001
You sound like you're doing alot better than I was at three weeks.I could'nt even stomach the vitamins or protein supps. Keep doing what youre doing.Eventually you will be able to fit more in. It takes time, You're only 3 weeks out.
   — Vel K.

July 3, 2001
At so early post op you just get in what you can - it gets better with time. The MOST IMPORTANT thing that you MUST get in, IF NOTHING ELSE, is the liquids. I had the same problems early post op and my surgeon said that the liquids are a priority. You can go for a long time without the food and vitamins but you need water (iced tea, crystal lite, etc) constantly so PLEASE make liquids your priority. As time goes on you will be able to eat more 'food'. It sounds like you're doing fine and right where you should be - BUT drink, drink drink! Best of luck to you.
   — [Anonymous]