Hungry Help Hungry

Full liquids are defined as any food that is liquid or semi-liquid at body temperature.  Dairy products make up a major portion of the foods allowed in the full liquid category. The list of foods can include cream of wheat made thin, baby cereals made thin, blended and strained soups, even meats that have been pureed in a blender and then strained.  There should not be any pieces or bits that have to be chewed. I actually bought jars of baby foods during this stage of my recovery, and they really aren't that bad.  A bit bland maybe, but I added alot of flavorings such as Mrs. Dash, garlic powder, salt and pepper, etc.  The strained fruits were a welcome relief from the usual yogurt, cottage cheese, and jello.  I used a little Splenda or Equal to sweeten foods.  Babies have it so good with all of the varieties of tastes available to them! This is the stage where I forced myself to get used to the taste and texture of the protein shakes.  I had almost no success with the powders, so I started trying all of the different pre-mixed ones.  After much trial and error, I settled on EAS AdvantEdge...in the silver carton.  Each 11 ounce serving has 110 calories, 0 sugar, and 17g protein.  Drinking 2 of these a day gives me 1/2 of my daily protein requirement.  The EAS were the best tasting of all the products I tried and come in strawberry, chocolate, and french vanilla. You could try the Easy Cheese in your cream soups too.  It's soft enough that you don't have to chew, and 2 tablespoons adds protein, albeit a minimal amount...just 2g.  It's rich so will add a good deal of flavor. Keep in mind that once you get on regular foods, you might over-do it without realiziing it.  I did it because I was so anxious to actually EAT again.  Go slow, don't try new foods unless you plan on staying home in case you have a bad experience.  Chew, chew, chew; until it's like a puree before you swallow.  If you find yourself searching for something to eat and just can't figure out what you want, settle on a protein drink.  It satisfies, and stays with you longer than some foods.  Good Luck and hang in there. KathyG