Counting carbs post-op?

[Mel Mel 0]

Pre-op I had to count my Protein as well as my carb intake. Now that my diet is advancing and I can have things that I wasn't allowed before like skim milk with carnation instant Breakfast or farina I'm having a lot more carbohydrates. I use the no sugar added carnation mix and sugar free puddings, popcicles etc. But I've noticed my carbohydrate count is up there! I'm still on full liquids so I know my choices are limited. I just want to know what others have done... Did you focus on the carbohydrate intake at this point?

[bandedrd 0]

The best thing to focus on is Protein. Your MD or RD (dietitian) will tell you how much you need each day. If you meet your protein needs and limit portions sizes according to the nutrition guidelines, you don't have to worry about grams of carbohydrates because there won't be any room for "too many CHOs". Even after you begin eating solids, always make sure you meet your protein requirements with each meal. When we lose wt, we lose some muscle with the fat, however making sure you get all of your protein and exercising regularly will spare some of that muscle loss. The more muscle or lean mass you have the more efficiently you will burn calories. That's my "dietitian" answer 'cause that's what I do for a living. (Ironic, huh?)

From my experience living with the band for the past 10 months, there are times when I don't concentrate on meeting my protien needs and eat things that are high in simple sugars and fat. Even though I can't eat as much of those things as I did pre op, it's halts my weight loss, and leave me feeling tired. Hope that helps... Keep up the good work!

[BetsyB 9]

Yes, I've kept a close eye on carbs all along. I journal my intake on Fitday, so even though I primarily focus on getting enough Protein, I do aim to keep carbs <50 g/day---from veggies/fruits/legumes.

I lose best this way, and don't find it difficult because there is finite stomach space.

[Jachut 487]

I've never counted carbs and in fact eat a more wholegrain carb based diet. It works better for me. I never had any trouble losing weight, although it was slow I guess - 2 years for 100lb, I had a BMI of 36 to start with. I actually dont consider that slow but I know others would.