Question:
Open VBG; eating? drinking? staying full?

I had open VBG on 12/11/01 and have lost 31 lbs. so far (6 wks. out). My question is: I try to eat 2-3 ozs. (I always measure what I eat first)three or four times a day depending on how hungry I am. I am only just beginning to branch out to more solid foods (fish, chicken, cheese, fat free refried beans)as I have been on liquids for so long. I have been trying to avoid carbs. like potatoes, creamed soups, oatmeal, etc. because I seem to get hungrier if I have eaten them. I drink water up until I get ready to eat then not at all during or for 30-45 minutes afterwards. I am trying really hard to get in 64 ozs. of water a day. I find however that if I have eaten a good protein meal that sometimes I can't get any water in there for hrs. because I still feel so full but yet am thirsty! This is making me crazy! My doctor is nice (bless his heart) but doesn't seem to know a whole lot about nutrition. Am I right to be trying to focus on protein meals now? I am also diabetic so don't need carbs. I'm not eating any fruits or vegetables, am I hurting myself by not eating them (nutrient wise)? Would appreciate any and all advice from my AMOS pals! Thanks!    — esthjb (posted on January 23, 2002)

January 23, 2002
Tracy, I had open VBG 7-18-01 and have lost 110 pounds. I am very happy with my choice and my results...however, I have worked very hard to attain them. It sounds like you are doing great! In the beginning it will be very hard to get all your food and water in. Your new little pouch is SO small, but believe me, it will stretch with time. I still feel like a pig if I am able to eat 1/2 cup of food! Your protein intake should be your definite focus, but you do not need to avoid carbs all together. I also am (was) diabetic, had GERD, and took HBP pills...but no longer have to take anything. SO...things will get better. My advice is 2 fold. Make SURE you take your vitamins. What did your Dr. recommend? I started taking chewables...and after about 4 months was able to take capsules. Secondly....I cannot stress enough how important a good exercise program will be to your success. Those of us who have had VBG's have a little different situation than those who have had RNY's. So your diet and exercise will be of the utmost importance to your success. I do not take in 64 oz. of water a day. It is really hard if you cannot eat and hour before, during, or an hour after your meals. But I drink more water than I used to...:) I am a nurse also...LVN...it sounds like we have a lot in common!! Feel free to email me at [email protected] if you have any other questions...:)) I don't know it all, but I only have 25 pounds to go to my goal...so maybe we can encourage each other...:)))) Good luck! Deana
   — Deana R.