Help, need more calories

[annjones 3]

Ok, I never thought I would be asking this....

I was banded on Dec. 23rd. I'm on soft foods now and am doing great on hydrating, Protein, Vitamins, etc.

I am only averaging about 400 or so calories a day and I'm finding in the afternoon before I eat my lunch I am getting really weak. I really am full between meals and don't want to start any bad habits of grazing etc. But I'm needing to increase my calories so I can function.

I really don't want to drink more Protein shakes if I don't have to.

Ideas, advice etc is most appreciated.

[Tess415 1]

Congratulations on your band!!! What a nice christmas present to yourself!!!

May I suggest.. adding a banana or a serving of applesauce. I some times eat that with my Breakfast. Its healthy and will add some calories. You could even treat yourself to a frozen heathy choice meal... they run from 250-300 cal for a dinner, they should have something to pick from in the soft food category.

Best of luck to you!!!

[littlefroggy 0]

I've had days like that, especially in the beginning when I just started eating soft foods, or right after a fill.

Sometimes I eat a spoonful of Peanut Butter, which is good, has Protein and carbs, which maybe you need more of. Cottage cheese is really filling too, as is ricotta. You can heat up low-fat ricotta w/ spices and marinara sauce, or w/ some spenda and apple sauce or something.

I wouldn't worry unless you start to really get sick and woozy. Drink more Water. You will eventually find yourself at a place where your intake is more normal. I had days where I only had 200-400 calories in a day, but now I have anywhere from 800-1200 and am losing really well.

[annjones 3]

Thank you both! It is comforting to hear that this isn't an uncommon problem. I'm really working on sticking to the eating guidelines.

I've added some Snacks between meals and I got up to 800 calories before any exercise deducted them. Felt much better and didn't get that wiped out feeling from low calories.