My NUT said NO to mashed potatoes.

Your idea of taking a measuring cup with you is really a great idea! Unfortunately I am the last of the Mohicans. All my family has passed away so I really don't have to worry much about family get togethers. I don't go to many restaurants, and when I do go with a friend they are also health conscience too. My one friend is diabetic so healthy choices are always on her mind. This makes it easy for me when I go out with her.

I just bought a blender and a food scale and a measuring ounce glass. I am starting to measure my food. I am not a breakfast person so my Nut. suggested that I have a protein drink when I first get up. So I have been doing that for the last several mornings. I am using a protein powder with unsweetened almond milk. It's not bad, I actually like it. I have been trying to eat more salads and grains (oat bran) and only having a meat product once a day. I do concentrate on getting my water requirement in. Altho I did miss lunch today so I am on the hungry side. I will continue to work at losing this weight. I am determined. I have to change!

Had my RNY on 10/20 so I can sure empathize with you. Found I can best meet protein target by have a 30 gm shake in the am and one in the pm. I drink them in divided doses over an hour. That gets in 60 grams protein total and all extra protein is bonus so I don't track it.

Fluids: Plain water which I used to drink by the gallon doesn't taste good now, neither does crystal light. I found low cal cranberry juice (5 cal per 8 oz) on ice tastes pretty good so I sip on that all day. I like popsicles too (especially the orange ones).

So those things cover my protein and fluid needs. Sugar free fudgesicles are good for me and fill me up. Also SF cocoa made with milk gives a good protein boost and is very filling.

I'm walking every day, some days more than others, but aim for between 1-2 miles. Just plug in the iTunes and off I go. No race, just get 'r done. I get out of the house every day which boosts my spirits.

My insides are definitely different! Have had issues with constipation that are slowly resolving but that made me miserable! Also found it so hard to reposition myself, turn in bed, etc. without pain. My skin is itchy around the incision sites and the healing bruises and new contours in my belly make it look like a Halloween pumpkin! I even gained weight after the surgery! Ugh. But I've lost that post op weight and a few more pounds so now am headed back in the right direction.

Just one foot in front of the other, one day at a time. We are learning a new way to live and soon these days will be a distant memory!

Turmeric, ginger and cinnamon,as well as fish oils are good to modulate inflammation.   But it may take a while for the body to respond. 

When taking turmeric - if you consider supplements -  make sure you chose good ones. Turmeric is difficult to absorb so most companies mix taht with other herbs (like pepper) to increase absorption...

but - you can always use it in food. Don't use "raw" turmeric - it can cause irritation of the pouch lining.. so don't just sprinkle it on food. 

I use turmeric in my meat and egg dishes. heat up the oil - add turmeric - then add the meat...I always add some black pepper to increase absorption.  

I add to me meatloaf... etc...

the supplements - I know Gaia herbs stuff is really good. its not cheap.. but it really works and it has what it suppose to have...

I am almost 5 months out from RNY and can tolerate just about anything. I was wondering if Polenta is OK to eat. Just looking for something a little different.

Thanks