Online "support group" not very supportive

[QuirkyParrot 28]

I have hated the shakes since day one of the pre-op diet.

I have issues with sucralose, aceK and aspertame sweeteners (they induce immediate migraines) and EVERY product on my doctor's recommendations list contained them (shakes, puddings, drink mixes, etc). All of their proprietary private-labeled foods and drinks include them as well, you know, the ones at the office, which they really want to sell you "to make it easier." I had to search out alternatives with natural sweeteners and just about everything is sweetened with Stevia (rebA) or Monk Fruit extract and those products are HIGHLY over-sweetened. I used shakes during my pre-op when I could stand at the kitchen sink and chug them down, but once I had my surgery and could only sip slowly, they were out. I just couldn't drink them without gagging.

So, I was always using alternative products to what the practice recommended, and started seeking out real food methods to meet my Protein goals very early in the process. When I met the nutritionist she was impressed with my creativity and absolutely fine with my choices, the doctor not so much. Even though I was recovering well and losing weight, he seemed personally insulted that I wouldn't just take their plan "that has worked for thousands of patients" and unquestionably follow it. He tried to push me to go back to shakes and supplements, even though I was reaching my protein goals without them. He wasn't mean about it, but was quite forceful. I totally think it's an ego thing.

So, the moral of my story is, there is more than one way to reach the finish line. If you are willing to do the research and find choices that are more appealing to you, while being in line with the nutrients you need to meet your goals, then go for it. Avoid the places you've reached out for support and found only judgement and resistance, and find groups that will help you get there. Like this one!