Question:
I have read many posts about what we can eat post op and was wondering if

this sounded ok. I was told to chew the Viactive chews (about three a day) for calcium and to also eat tums. She suggested non-fat dry milk to put into different foods for the extra protien and that I sould also be able to digest milk (non fat) and milk products with no problem. She also suggested carnation instant breakfast, wheat germ, calcium carbonate, and white bread should be tolerable. Also meat, poultry, fish, especially tuna, ensure, boost. I am confused because I have read some of these suggested items do not do us any good after rny surgery. I doesn't sound too bad to follow, I just want to make sure I am eating healthy and the right things after surgery. Any input?    — [Anonymous] (posted on May 22, 2001)

May 22, 2001
Viactive chews and tums are calcicum carbonate and are what my surgeon/nutritionist suggested. However, MANY, MANY times on this site we have been told that our bodies do not absorb calcium carbonate and that we should be taking calcium citrate. I had Boost at 3 weeks and dumped because I did not thin it out - carb/surgar ratio were too close or something. Good luck.
   — Doris R.

May 22, 2001
I am almost 2 years post-op I drink alot of "Silk" soy milk, which you can find at the grocery store, it's a little pricier than regular milk, but it's high in protein and lactose free. It comes in Vanilla, Chocolate (which I find is too rich for me so I cut it w/either Vanilla or Plain soy milk) or plain. I usually drink a cup in the morning w/my vitamins and a cup at night. Also I found a company in CA call St. Raphaels', from them I order chewable soy protein supplements and chewable calcium suppliments! I too enjoy tuna fish, eat cheese and am a major fresh fruit freak (watermelon)!!! Don't forget lots and lots of water :o)
   — Carrie G.

May 22, 2001
I'm still postop, surgery is June 11th. But my surgeon gave me almost the exact same diet you mentioned including the Viactive chews and Tums, and non-fat dry milk. I think every surgeon has different opinions on everything including the diet. My surgeon will not allow me to eat or drink from day of surgery to the fourth day. Then he wants me to begin pureed food and on to regular food ASAP. He doesnt believe in protein shakes, liquids diets and such. Too much like dieting, and protein drinks can lead to less weight loss. Remember this is just my surgeon's opinion. I'm not suggesting my surgeon is right and others wrong. He believes we should get our protein from foods as much as possible and not from liquids. Of course it will be hard at first and each person is different as to what they can handle. I was told to listen to my body, take it slow, and begin regular food as soon as I can handle it.
   — Karla K.