When I first started the program, I read through all of the information and thought to myself "I can do this, no problem". I realized last night that it was a very abstract concept to me at that time. My how time flies when you are having fun! I read through the program again last night and suddenly felt a little overwhelmed by it all as I am a little less than a month from getting a surgery date and now it's very real. I know deep down that I'll be ok, but still... Does everyone feel this way or am I worrying for nothing too soon? Thanks.
There is a lot to learn. Keep learning, that is important. Soon you will have a surgery date and then begins your pre-op liquid diet to start you on a weight loss path as well as helping out your liver.
Take the program in steps:
First there is the pre-op program, usually about 2 weeks of liquid diet. I used protein shakes and glucerna each day to consume my 1200 calorie per day limit. I used Premier protein shakes. All of this is readily available at local stores such as your pharmacy, Costco, and other locations. You can also order these products online from Costco and Amazon. It is a good idea to stock up on your protein shakes and liquids.
I had a full case of Isopure grape flavored ready for when I came home for the first week post op, which calls for clear liquids. Isopure is a clear liquid 8 ounces gives you 15 grams of protein.
For me the second week was all liquids. So, at this point I used Premier Protein Vanilla shakes. It also comes in Chocolate and I think Strawberry. A 11 ounce shake gives you 30 grams of protein. I also drank 1% milk, which is good for about 8 grams of protein in 8 ounces and a 100 calories. So, week 2 I used my Isopure, my Premier Protein Shakes and low fat milk.
Again, try a few of these products out now and then decide what you like or don't like and buy a case to have ready for post op.
Week three puree foods are introduced. I enjoyed pureed eggs and also pureed soups. Now, you begin to figure out what you can tolerate or NOT tolerate. Also, you only move on to the next stage of food if you feel ready. If you are still struggling after week 1 with the clear liquids stay at the week 1 level for another week. All of this should be in your information package.
Progression is critically important, but it is based on your readiness. At any stage if you are not ready simply do another week at whatever stage you are at.
After pureed foods come soft foods. Now, your horizon widens. You discover what foods you can tolerate and like. Believe it or not your tastes may change. Something you may have liked before surgery you will not like after surgery and vice versa.
Again, you will need your protein shakes or clear protein liquids to assure that you reach your minimum daily requirement for protein.
Just break it down into its parts. Each week when you are ready for the next stage, then study in greater detail the next stage.
Sure it is overwhelming when you are just starting out and you are pre-op. But, we all get through it and we are all here to support you step by step.
Best wishes,
Ralph
Good Luck
