Concerned about food volume and restriction at 7-weeks out

indyjeff · December 11, 2016

Hi,

I’m a little concerned about my food volume and restriction at 7-weeks post-op. Looking for input from guys specifically, and/or veterans. I’m following my NUT’s guidelines, measuring/weighing food, and have lost 64lbs total (24 pre-op, and 40 post-op) in 11 weeks.

Since Thanksgiving, I’ve been cleared for “soft” solids. My usual dinner has been 3-4oz of chicken, fish, or ground beef/turkey. I typically put 1-2 TBSP of gravy or low-carb sauce on the meat, and have ½ cup soft veggies, or occasionally mashed potatoes. Or, I can eat 1-cup of say, chili w/ Beans, or a thick Soup (Chunky's)... This is following my NUT’s plan, but I never feel “stuffed”, just reasonably full and satisfied eating this volume after 20-25 minutes. I’m getting 80-100gr of Protein in a day.

My concern is this seems like WAY more food than most on this forum can eat at 6-8 weeks out. I raised my concerns with my NUT, but she said I was fine. I’m also concerned at what my volume will be like in 3 months, 6 months, or 1-year out.

Any advice?

LipstickLady · December 11, 2016

Well, a properly done sleeve will not stretch. As you continue to heal, the swelling will go down and your volume will increase slightly. This is normal.

I do think you are getting in some slider foods like mashed potatoes. Chunky Soup is also not your best option. If you stick to firm Proteins, vegetables, cheese and Beans, you will feel your restriction quicker and stay full longer.

Of course, follow your nutritionists guidelines. I'm not sure where you are on your food progression. At six weeks, I was still on soft...

Edit. Reread your op. You are still on soft as well. Try sticking to soft Proteins like fish and crab and saucy meats. cheese is great, and of course yogurt, Beans and avocado. Mashed Taters are amazing but they aren't your friend.

indyjeff · December 11, 2016

Thank you so much for chiming in @@LipstickLady! I think cutting the mashed potatoes is a good idea and I don't eat them that often... All great advice. Thanks!

PS - Always enjoy your posts!

LipstickLady · December 11, 2016

Thank you so much for chiming in @@LipstickLady! I think cutting the mashed potatoes is a good idea and I don't eat them that often... All great advice. Thanks!

PS - Always enjoy your posts!

A lot of people don't think to check the carbs in the Soup because it's ... soup. Thick chowders use a lot of flour or other thickeners that make them higher in carbs than you expect.