[sloopy]

How did you all deal with not being able to eat the same foods post-op? Or the same amounts? That's the biggest hurdle I'm having with this whole thing.

Thanks!
sloopy
RNY Aug. 30th 2006

[Robbin]

It is a huge adjustment, as all of us here will agree.

I find that if I take small bites cutting each bite seperatly, and taking at least 3-5 minutes between each bite...phew...you not only are able to get that serving in a little easier, but you also eliminate the chance of over filling. Yuckky feeling...
I find drinking gets a little easier too., but the servings will always be small, and if you have a menu plan from you surgeon, it is good to follow that as best you can.

I have to admit I forget at times and find myself eating a little too fast and pay for awhile....but for the most part you know what you can handle.

Good luck to you,
'
ROBBIN

[DocSanae]

It's a huge adjustment, I agree. You'll be struggling with your mind, but at the same time, reading everybody's posts, I get the impression your body will take care of that in many ways as well.
((((((HUGS))))))

[fr1endly2]

(((((((((HUG))))))))))))00
well this is a different experience for everyone so I can only tell you what i experienced.

OF course i went thru the normal OMG!!! what did i do to myself thing
the first sunday i was home from surgery...and even cried. BUT i knew
in my heart in time...I will be able to eat all foods just in smaller amounts.
THIS smaller portion thing doesnt bother me. AND of ourse early out from
surgery you eat far less then i can do now, so eventually even the portions increase its a normal thing to the surgery.

I kept my mind set that things i couldnt eat early post op eventually I will be able to and that kept me HAPPY enough. AND being over a year out it
hold pretty much true. I also feel i need my portion size fixed as to me it
was my birth defect to consume the sized portions i was able to. SO now
im in control. ALSO post op likes, and dislikes have changed for me as far
as foods .

GOOD LUCK, and i will admit i never mastered eating slowly post op but by
useing small sized bowls i tend to know when to stop!

hugs

[Pillows]

GOOD LUCK with that Sloopy and when ya figure it out....email me would ya?.....lol.
Janae

[pimadc]

for me right now not being able to eat the same foods is tough. The amounts don't bother me though because I am still not hungry. Those small amounts are still too much. I eat to try toget in the portions that my surgeon said that I should. Eatting is like an afterthought right now. Good Luck. After yuor surgery you will see.

[Pillows]

All joking set aside...I think that for me when I went out to eat post op and ordered such a tiny amount of food and then took most of it home...it was fun. I love the looks on the waiter's and waitress's faces or the faces of the people at the counter when you do that. Once you reach the puree or soft food stage life becomes a lot easier to deal with. I have found that if my family wants Wendy's I order either chili or a baked potato, if Taco Bell, the beans are good, if a sub shop then cheddar broccoli soup was awesome. Just try to wait out the worst stages of your diet ( the liquids) and then life will be easier. There was a time in the begining where I would put a pizza in the oven for my family and then go for a walk while it cooked and they ate. I didn't eat with my family much until I was adjusted somewhat. When you feel cranky about the food you are missing...try going for a walk or even some creative expressive cursing seems to help me in a pinch. (just make sure the kiddies aren't around. ) Listen to good music and keep posting on here. I know that even with all of these things it will be hard and a trial, but it is worth it. As soon as you start to see clothes too big to wear and hear compliments it will help you keep motivated and you may find a new addiction that is hopefully healthier. For me I type in order to keep food out of my mouth. That is why I am on here a lot. Hope this helps and makes sense. Good luck, remember we are all in this together.
Janae

[sloopy]

Cursing, now that sounds like a plan! Haha. Well I'm not married and don't have any kids and I live alone so I don't think anyone would mind! Seriously though, thanks for all the input. It really does help.

I finished all my pre-op testing yesterday so now it's just a matter of getting myself mentally ready for the 30th. I've told my family and close friends at work and everyone's been very supportive for the most part. Except for one co-worker who's spent every day this week trying to talk me out of it. It gets hard hearing it every day because then I start to wonder if there IS something else I should try first. Oh well, hearing everyone's great stories about life after surgery makes it all worthwhile.

Thanks!
sloopy

[DocSanae]

Sloopy, you need to tell that co-worker flat out that this is your decision, and you need it to get a new lease on life, if you haven't already. That if he/she cannot be supportive, then saying so once is enough, that you are the one who is living your life, and not that person. You do not need to keep being told the same thing repeatedly, that is an insult to your intelligence and your decision, if you ask me. I may sound a bit harsh, but then, what are friends for if they are not ready to fight side by side with you all the way?
(((((((HUGS))))))

[Pillows]

I think that the thing you need to first try is putting duct tape over your co-workers mouth.....lol. I agree with Doc, don't put up with the crap.
Janae