A few steps in the right direction

[josephsmom 25]

Hi, I am the OP of the "Not sure it's working" thread from last week. I've noticed some improvements since then, and I want to share them in case they might help someone else.

I've cut down to one Protein Shake a day. I now add peanut powder to that one Protein shake, and it helps immensely! It cuts down the sweetness while I'm drinking it, and also eliminates the sickly-sweet aftertaste. I mix it up with my immersion blender, and I like the texture better that way too. I tried blending 1/2 of a banana into the shake, but I didn't care for that. I'm going to stick with the peanut powder.

My only other milk-based protein comes from shredded aged Cheddar cheese (which has very little lactose), melted over a small serving of mashed potatoes or pureed Beans. My other protein sources are hard-boiled eggs, tuna, or salmon pureed with a little bit of light mayo, and some hummus here and there. In the past I have found that beans and mayo-based salads triggered my irritable bowel, but so far I am doing okay with these small amounts.

I find I feel much better and less hungry with these savory flavors than I did when everything was sweet. It also helps to eat something warm at least once a day. I've had good luck with Tomato and egg drop Soups "as is," and with green pea and lentil soups that I've put through the blender.

I haven't done much with puree-ing fruits and vegetables yet. If I've met my protein goal but still need more calories, I have some 100% fruit juice. I "chase" that with a tiny bit of something savory to avoid the sweet aftertaste. That seems to be key.

I've cut out Jello and popsicles; I associate those with being sick. I've found a couple of flavors of diet iced tea and Crystal Light that are nice alternatives to plain Water but are not too sweet.

All in all, it has been tremendously helpful to reduce the Protein Shakes and add in some real food, and to find a better balance between sweet and savory flavors. Even though the foods are pureed, and the calories are still very low, I feel less like I am on a starvation diet now. The foods do not pass through as quickly, and I am not as hungry.

Thanks again to everyone who offered support or advice; it was all very helpful.

[Chrisb428 626]

Glad to hear you are doing better!

[J San 1,071]

So great you are doing better. Way to go on figuring out things that work for you.