Question:
How many calories are we supposed to eat in a day at 2 wks post-op.

Does anyone know how many calories we are supposed to consume in a day? I don't have a problem getting my liquids in, but I think I might not be getting enought calories? Is that possible?    — Gail M. (posted on June 22, 2001)

June 22, 2001
Odds are most likely you are not getting in enough calories. Neither my doctor nor the nutritionist told me how many calories to consume during the first three weeks. They just wanted me to get used to my new tummy, to recognize satiety, and be comfortable. It was recommended that I ate Lite soups, low fat ricotta, cottage cheese, egg salad, tuna salad, and chicken salad (all with lite dressing), cream of wheat, scrambled egg, pudding, jello, Skim Plus Milk, and of course protein drinks! Even then, I was told to eat sensibly, though anything pureed was okay. Remember you are not on a "diet" at this point. Last thing you should be concerned with is counting calories. Instead, learn your new system so that it'll work for you. And remember, PROTEIN! Best of luck!
   — Jeannet

June 22, 2001
I am 16 months out (107 lb. lost) and I have never counted calories. I think it's best to not focus on calories. Get used to what it feels like to feel full, drink you fluids and just lose the weight. Getting obsessed with calories would be counter-productive. I think it would be a mistake to let calorie counting rule what you eat. Instead, focus on what your body is telling you.
   — Gina E.

June 22, 2001
I was told that at 2 weeks...caloric needs, expecations, averages: 2 weeks 400 calories a day. 3 weeks 500 calories and so on. I really don't think I even came close to that amount for many weeks post-op. Good luck!!
   — Cindy S.