Question:
What are some examples of your diet plan after WLS and were you strict about it?

I'm 17 days post-op and have had it with the pureed diet and the protein drinks (they give me diarrhea). At my post-op appointment this week, the dietitian told me that I should stay on the purees for the entire 4 weeks because I would stretch my pouch and slow my weight loss otherwise. I've read on the Q&A board lots of instances where people start eating solids sooner than 4 weeks with continued success. What's up with this? Do I really need to stay on purees?    — Danette H. (posted on November 29, 2001)

November 29, 2001
Not all doctors follow the same aftercare programs. I was on liquids for 4 weeks , then moved to full liquids for 2 weeks then on to soft mushy foods for 2 more. And yes , I was the perfect patient . I followed my doctors orders to a T. I figured this was my last chance (I was 50 yrs old) so I didn't want to screw it up. Also I was really afraid I would stretch my pouch or break the staples and I didn't want more surgery! It was hard but I was so sick of being fat and I hated myself, sad but true. Now I'm thin , happy and healthy. I can eat just about anything I want , but just a small amt. Life is good. Why put yourself through this surgery just to figure out a way around it during the heeling process? Good luck.
   — Rose A.

November 29, 2001
I am 16 days post op and am eating most anything. Ground meats,breads,cheese,canned fruit and vegs...soft stuff. I did eat a little pizza a few days ago and would be accepted for my diet given by the Dr. Try to eat mostly protein. Not getting sick from it. I have lost 30lbs already...10% of my weight. Seems like there are a lot of different post op diets. I have been taking diet frozen dinners and splitting them...they work fine and are real food. At three weeks post op I am allowed to eat anything I can. Just eat small amounts. Good luck.
   — valerie S.

November 29, 2001
I am 29 days post-op and down 23 lbs. My doctor and his dietician had given me very specific written diet plans I spent a lot of time and energy studying them and made sure I knew what to have ready and bought a lot of things ahead of time. It all changed because my recovery is apparently going well. I say that because instead of 2 weeks each of clear liquids, full liquids, soft foods..and on the 7th week you can start solid foods; it was one week clear foods, two weeks full and soft foods, and at the beginning of the 3rd week..start incorporating solid foods. Now that isn't to say that I eat solid foods completely. I have learned the signs if something isn't "sitting right" or creates a pressure/burning type feeling in my chest area. It generally passes quickly; causes me to SLOW DOWN, chew more and to pay attention. I have not dumped, and with a couple of rare exceptions, I have not tossed my "cookies" <no cookies!>. I am easing into it slowly. I have the rest of my life to get used to this. Beef and poultry are not working for me. Pork and fish seem to do okay. Soup,salads,cream of wheat are great. I seem to be able to drink fruit juice as long as its 100% and not citrus. I try to drink the protein shake ( Optipure Whey Protein..55grams of protein) in the morning for breakfast. The bottom line is that your situation is unique and your doctor will do what's best for you. I have been very lucky. Hope this helps.
   — lacyadjuster