[lboosmommy]

Ok. So I know the rule is protein first, then veggies, then carbs 'if there's room'. What I'm not sure on is the 'break point' between protein and veggies. For instance, I could easily fill up on a protein portion (chicken, fish, what have you) and never get to veggies, but I'm guessing they're still kind of important. So how am I supposed to make sure I'm getting what protein I need and still get veggies? How do I make sure I don't run out of room before I get some veggies too? KWIM?

[mj2903]

Good question, I can only handle about a tablespoon of meat but I can eat a 1/4 cup of cottage cheese or yogurt. I am supposed to add cooked veggies in on Friday but I am not sure how if I eat meat. I have tried shrimp but not regular fish so that would be an idea for me to try. I was also planning on making a batch of thick turkey & bean chili so it would stay put for a few minutes. lol

[dixieladybug]

Well for me it is easy at almost two years out. I just fix my salad plate with my protein and a veggie or what ever I am having and i know the amount that i can have and can eat. It does get easier when you get further out. It gets to be second nature but I still have to count to make sure i am getting enough protein in during the day.

[judijo]

...and this is why your protein must be DRUNK, as part of your water requirement, to achieve the protein requirement, when newly post-op. There is no way to get in 60-100 grams (depending on your surgeon's requirement) of protein via food only. take a small serving of food protein to get your pouch used to the concept of eating it, and also introduce veggies and fruit, as you can handle it.

It is like feeding a baby...the baby gets most of the nutrition from breast or formula while being introduced to foods slowly and one at a time. You should get most of your protein through your "formula" until your pouch can handle the requirements through food only.

[mj2903]

Thanks Judijo!!