Question:
This question may have been asked several times, I checked the library already.

Why do I feel like I am on a constant diet. I am 4 weeks post op, but I find I am constantly checking labels for fat, calories and carbs. I am always looking for fat free or low fat foods and basically miserable. I am at my pureed stage and my shopping bill has increased tremendously because I am always looking for something for me to eat. I always feel "can't have this or that." Am I getting healthy eating confused with dieting? Will it really mess me up if I have a little spaghetti? I have seen my nutritionist and my doctor has a food plan we must follow-- stages: clear liquids, full liquids, pureed then soft.. Thanks for your help    — Monique W. (posted on April 25, 2003)

April 25, 2003
If you decide to add foods earlier than prescribed by your physician, spaghetti is the LAST food you want to try. Even though you have probably read on here that people were on solid foods at your stage, I suggest listening to YOUR doctor. Every surgeon is different but the key is not that my surgeon is right and yours is wrong, but the idea is to follow whatever advice we are given by our doctor. The idea is to learn to do what is GOOD for us, not necessarily what we'd prefer to do. For now, follow doctor's orders. As you incorporate more food, you will feel less and less like you are on a diet. At the pureed stage your choices are very limited. As time goes on, you'll learn how to eat healthy and make good choices.
   — susanje

April 25, 2003
This surgery can have lots of complications - many from patient noncompliance. You absolutely need to let your surgery heal or you will wind up with an obstruction, which is very painful, expensive, and will set you back considerably on healing. EVERY doctor has these food stages, and for good reason - please, for yourself, you've come this far, don't blow it - stick to it day by day - you're worth it!
   — bethybb

April 25, 2003
At 4 weeks, you really can't have this or that! And you are on a diet for now. Healing internally is a big deal . Reading labels is a good thing! You are learning to eat healthy. You may not realize it, but you are looking for things you can have now, and in the future! I agree with the others - avoid pasta, bread and rice fo now. Eating the wrong things now can make you really uncomfortable. My husband is about 2 weeks post op and tried to rush it - paid for it with pain and throwing up. Not worth it!
   — koogy

April 25, 2003
It IS hard in the beginning. Your plumbing has been rearranged and you have to be very careful what you flush through it. Only premium paper :>) Seriously though, I agree with the others. You chose this surgeon for a reason so stick to his plan. I promise it will get easier as you get further out (and cheaper too!).
   — [Deactivated Member]

April 26, 2003
I agree with everyone that you should follow your doctor's advice. However, my doctor allowed angel hair pasta with plain marina/tomato sauce after 2wks. It was wonderful. But, cut it into little tiny pieces and chew it! Do not wind it or swirl it around your fork..it could make you vomit when it hits your stomach. I agree with you. It feels like a constant struggle some days to do this exactly right. Remember that everyone does it differently. Try not to compare yourself to other people. Good luck!
   — rpoepke