Question:
Another question on ketosis........

I'm 3 months post-op, down 50 lbs. Lap RNY. I find myself nibbling on things with carbs; triscuits, pretzels, popcorn. I'm going to answer my own question here, but tell me if you agree, family. I need to stop the carbs, don't I? And I need to start eating more protein, right? I don't necessarily want to go into ketosis, but isn't that what it's all about? maximum protein, minimum carbs? At least that is what I've gathered by researching q&a's at the AMOS library. So give me some snack ideas, please. I don't want to get back into the old habits. Also, last night while watching a rented video, I made some microwave popcorn, I got the feeling of wanting to vomit, headed to the bathroom, and just as quickly the feeling passed. But that was about the worst I've felt since my surgery.    — Annie H. (posted on February 3, 2002)

February 3, 2002
First of all, I'm not bashing you! I think you've had great success and have been a very strong person to get this far. However, from what I understand, what you are doing by snacking is bypassing the surgery. Use it as the tool you wanted and lay off the carbs at least until you get to your goal weight. Then just make sure you stay there. My surgeon doesn't allow snacking, but yours may be different. I'd check with her to see if you can snack at all and if you can, get some ideas there. Good Luck! ((HUGS))
   — Carolynn J.

February 3, 2002
Soy nuts, cheese sticks, chicken legs, cottage cheese w/sugar-free jams, sliced sausages like pepperoni baked crisp, jerkey (WalMart has a teriayki flavored one), fat-free, sugar free yogurt, peanut butter and protein bars.
   — Linda V.

February 3, 2002
Hi Annie, <P> There's nothing wrong with being in slight ketosis. You can buy "Ketostix" at any pharmacy to test your urine on a daily basis. I try to keep my ketone levels at the "slight" or "small amount" levels. This small amount of ketosis will not affect your breath or your health adversely. It is a good sign which means you are burning fat for energy. <P> I know when I cheat and eat carbs such as crackers or chips, etc., I go out of ketosis and my weight loss stops or slows way down. So it really is important to measure your ketone levels. It will help keep you on track. <p>Also, if the ketostix turns dark purple, you are in heavy ketosis which means you need to add some carbs. High ketone levels are not good for you. Best wishes in your journey.
   — artistmama

February 3, 2002
Oh Annie! I'm having the same battle with wanting carbs! I'm craving pretzels, breads.. just "anything" with carbs. Then I'm hungry ALL the time afterwards. Not good at all. I've got to get to Wal-Mart and get some more "Jack Link" Jerky. I like that better than ANY carbohydrate. (One of the previous posters mentioned the jerky). Annie, 'we' need to find something 'we' really like that's protein... and quit the carbs. Easier said than done sometimes eh? ;)
   — Danmark