Question:
Has anyone tried an organic raw diet post op?

Ok, I am almost 3 years post-op, and I have had my share of complications. Most painfully two ulcers. One that was removed surgically and one that is getting worse even though I am taking two Nexium per day. I really don't want to live the rest of my life having an ulcer removed every couple of years.<br>This has lead me to do some research on drastically changing my diet. Something that will not cause as much acid to be produced and one that will help my body heal. In my research I ran across a way of eating where all you eat is raw food. (food in it's original state) Since I'm not about to eat raw meat, it's pretty much a vegitarian diet. My sister in law eats a modified version of this now, and has since she battled breast cancer a few years ago. However, she has not had gastric bypass.<br>I will need to meet with a nutritionist, and that is my plan. But I am wondering if anyone on this site has any experience with this way of eating. My main concern is the protien, how much can one really get from beans and nuts? Thanks Bunches ~~Rebecca    — RebeccaP (posted on June 20, 2004)

June 20, 2004
I have not tried this, and am only about 9 months post op, but since noone has posted yet, thought I'd add my thoughts ;-) My first reaction was to wonder how well you do with raw foods now. I feel like I have been lucky and can eat almost anything but I cannot eat raw broccli and many raw veggies. YOUCH!! Painful, painful gas. Cooked, they are fine, but some of them I just cannot do raw or even blanched. Also, still have trouble with raw greens (bind up into some kind of big ball and then make trouble later). Your nutritionist should be able to make suggestions - of course it would be best if they were familiar with the gastric bypass procedure and digestive limitations. I know that you can get a fair amount of protein from beans and to a lesser degree,nuts, but again - OWWIE gas! I love beans, but can't eat a lot. Also, As I understand (but don't know for sure), you can't get all the required amino acids from non-meat proteins, but then maybe could do supplements. Oh, and the other raw meat idea that comes to mind is sashimi. Raw fish - it might not gross you out as much. It's very good - at least to many. I also really like steak tartar, actually, should I say "used to like"... haven't tried it post op. So sorry to hear about your ulcer problems and hope that they resolve. Wishing you all the best!
   — w8free

June 20, 2004
hi, you nat not be able to eat the vegatbles but i suggest you try making carrot juice in a juicer(carrot/celery/apple) not only does it taste great. it is so go for you.you will notice the differance on just a few days. i plan to start again post-op also.All the Best! Tracey
   — traceybubbles

June 20, 2004
Original poster here....I have no problems eating anything but pork. And that is only sometimes. I'm not concerned about being able to eat it, just curious if anyone has any experience with this way of eating. As for the sushi suggestion, I do enjoy it but would not be able to eat the rice with this plan.
   — RebeccaP

June 20, 2004
Hi Rebecca. I applaud your effort in finding an all-natural way to heal your body. I have found that the macrobiotic way of eating does just that. Protein can be found in vegetables (personally I cook mine slightly), beans, nuts, raw milk cheese and tofu. This way of eating requires a lot of planning but is well worth the trouble. Best of health!
   — Teri F.

June 21, 2004
I have done a good bit of reading on this subject. What I've come to understand about it is that going completely raw can give you a protein shock. Therefore, many people encourage you to try to eat as much raw foods as you can, but also eat poultry or fish. These are the "better" kinds of protein I guess you could say. That doesn't mean you have to eat a heap of the meat..just try to eat enough to get your protein in. Hope that helps.
   — Lee R.