Question:
PLEASE HELP>> I can't eat enough.

I am 7 months p.o. lap rny. There is nothing wrong physically. I am going through a VERY unexpected divorce. I found this out 8 days ago. I am having to force myself to eat what little I do get down. Yesterday I had: a real meals shake made with water, about 1/8 to 1/4 cup of peanuts, about 1/4 of a lean cusine, and 1/3 of an Atkins bar. Today I have had a real meals shake, one mozzerella cheese stick, about 1/2 cup homemade chicken fried rice (made with very little oil). And hopefully I will get down 1/3 to 1/2 of an Atkins bar. Is this enough?? Am I going to mess things up? I really am not able to eat more than that right now. I do drink 40 to 60 oz of water a day... used to drink a LOT more, but I can't at this time. Please, no lectures. Emotions have taken over and yes I have a counselor but she is out of town this week.. figures huh. Going through (#)*&%*#& H#%& Thanks in advance for any help!! Rebecca 288/190/140    — Rebecca H. (posted on September 23, 2003)

September 23, 2003
Hi Rebecca: I'm sorry you're having to deal with an unexpected divorce. I know it's got to be a tough thing to deal with on top of everything else going on. To answer your question though, I think you can afford to eat a little less than you were right now since you're not at goal yet anyway. I think it's more important to make sure you take your vitamins and keep focusing on your water than actually eating. If eating is hard but the real meal shakes are easier why not add another one or two of those? You do need the protein, but carbs aren't important. If you aren't feeling like eating much cut out the lean cusine and the rice and add something else that's protein instead. Unless you are eating those because maybe they're easier? I'm sure if you just take your time and ride out this unfortunate stage in your life things will start looking better. Some times it's hard to see how bad things have to happen to make the way for something so much better. I hope that's what's going on for you. Good luck. Sherry
   — sherry hedgecock

September 24, 2003
Rebecca, I too, am very sorry for what you're going through. Sherry has provided good advice. Do the best you can with food and get all your vitamins in, and I doubt there will be any harm. When the shock has worn off, and you can see your counselor, then you can get back to eating better. I also think that adding some protein drinks is a great idea (these count as water intake, so you can substitute a shake for something else you're drinking if you just can't drink more in a day). In the meantime, hang in there, and do the best you're able. Best wishes to you as you get through this.
   — Vespa R.

September 24, 2003
Many years ago, I unexpectedly lost a child. During this time, I was on a program like Optifast. Of course, eating was the farthest thing from my mind. The shakes were about as much as I could handle and think about in relation to food. Although I had no appetite due to grief, I was still getting my nutrition through the shakes. I would often forget to drink them, but my husband would remind me. It was a very difficult and sad time. You are experiencing a different, yet similar grief experience. I would definitely focus on having those protein shakes and not worry so much about eating. You need the nutrition. On top of everything that is going on, it is nice to not have to worry about what you can or can not eat. Just drink the shakes and water. You will be fine. Good luck to you! Shelley
   — Shelley.

September 25, 2003
heya hun.. first..im sorry for your troubles..but..in my opionion..you are not eating enough.. and this could cause serious problems with your health..maybe if you are unable to eat alot at this time..you could try upping your supplements.. please make sure you are having your vitamins..best of luck.. feel free to email me..huggles n bb..
   — johanna F.