taste buds and family reactions

[Turch 45]

Is it just me or has anyone's' taste buds changed? some things don't taste the same and savory things seem sweeter.

Also, my parents don't believe e when I say I'm full. My mom is concerned I'm not eating enough. I don't want to go back to the thought of having to clear my plate or over eating.. It's just so very frustrating!

[ChunkCat 728]

I had my taste buds change about 4 days ago (I'm 2 weeks post op). It's awful!! I can't taste sweet spices at the moment, like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect time of year to not be able to taste those things! LOL Also a number of savory things don't taste right anymore... I hear this taste change happens a lot in the 1st year.

As for your family, you are going to have to set some firm boundaries there. I know it is hard to do with family, but if you don't set them now it'll only get worse. Just tell her you've had enough and you'll return to it later, then put your plate away... Tell her you get labwork to ensure you are getting enough nutrients, she doesn't need to worry. Your body is different now and your food needs are different. And that what you need most from her is SUPPORT in this new way of life, not encouragement to overeat. Parents have a hard time seeing their children as responsible adults who can care for their own bodies and lives. Sometimes we need to (kindly) remind them we've got this.

[NickelChip 1,211]

OMG, family is such a touchy subject. I will be 50 years old in a few months, and I still want to be the "good daughter." I worry about what my family thinks to a degree I never imagined when I was younger. But you have to advocate for yourself because no one else is going to (easier said than done, I know). There are a few things that might help. First, if your family are the type who will "listen to the experts," I suggest you direct them to the extensive video series by both Dr. Matthew Weiner and Dr. John Pilcher. They are totally free on YouTube. I have watched every single video, some of them multiple times. Both of these doctors have this sort of calming aura about them. I swear, I feel less anxious every time they speak. They explain everything in really simple terms, and I think your family members will get it a lot better if they at least watch a few about eating after surgery.

Another thing you could try if they're more visual is buying one of those bariatric portion plates where it shows the different amounts of each thing. Or maybe if you get a bariatric cookbook and have your mom work through it with you and make some recipes, she will see for herself how much you should have and how it should look on the plate. I know the cookbook Dr. Weiner published tells you portion size for 1-2 months, 6 months, 1 year, and beyond. So she can see it's not going to be a couple tablespoons for the rest of your life. Ultimately, if she can't get on board, you may have to stop eating around her. But hopefully it won't come to that!

[KathyLev 285]

Some things taste salty to me - like cheese . I mentioned that to my dietican and she said it happens to alot of people. I guess it's just another thing our bodies do to surprise us.

[Arabesque 7,240]

Oh, our changing taste buds. It can be quite intriguing. First there is the temporary change after surgery which I think the anaesthetic contributes a lot too. But then after removing certain foods from your eating, you can lose your desire for them or even enjoyment of them over time. Which can be a good thing with certain foods. I embraced my dislike & sensitivity to anything sweet & rarely eat traditional sweet foods or drinks anymore. Same with alcohol - probably average a glass a month (though with Christmas & Christmas parties coming up I may have a few more through December - LOL!

Getting your family on board & understanding your eating now can be challenging. Maybe remind them that you are doing this with the support of a medical team & they are extremely happy with what you are doing & have no concerns. Your digestive system has been altered & you physically can’t eat the over large portions you used to which is a good thing. Maybe add that you are determined to be successful with your weight loss to be a healthier you & would hope you would have their support not their criticism & judgement. But you know your family best & what will resonate with them most.

All the best.