Pre Op diet

 My dr's instructions were to go on a low fat diet (800 to 1200 calories per day) for at least 2 weeks prior to the surgery.  They said nothing about a liquid only diet like I have read on here that many dr's want.  My surgery is an open RNY so that may be a difference between the type of pre-op diet, not sure just a guess.  Well I decided I am starting this today since my surgery is 3 weeks away.  I am doing a mixture of liquid and low-fat.  I am doing 2 meal replacement drinks for breakfast & lunch and a sensible low fat dinner.  I also adding 2 healthy snacks (i.e. fruit).  This is day 1.  I admit I am hungry and feel a bit light headed.  When I did WW I never felt this way.  Does anyone have any suggestions for a good, low fat snack that helps with the hunger feeling? 

Thanks in advance for any help!!

 Honestly, the first days will be the hardest so pushing thru may be in the cards. Also, warm liquids like hot tea or broth may help.

 Thank you!  I think I will go and make a cup of hot tea.  

Sorry I can't help you there.  My Dr. had me on 5 protein shakes a day plus water.  That was it :(  But it wasn't half bad.  Good luck!

My doctor had me on just a 1200 calorie diet until I could lose all the required pre-op weight.  Nothing special until the day before surgery, which was a stage II bariatric diet and a bottle of magnesuim citrate.  I think each surgeon is so different in what they require.  Good luck to you.  Once you get past the first day or two, the hunger will lessen substantially!

I am a couple days from starting my pre-op diet....

My dr's list is -

Protein Drinks x3 / day
Fill in w/ :
SF Jello
SF Pudding
SF popsicles
Yogurt (no fat w/ no granola or fruit in bottom aka vanilla)
low fat cream soups (healthy start brand, but NO CHUNKS)
Crystal Light
8 cups of water / day

etc etc etc....

I will be doing this for two weeks. 

From what I have read (and I am the KING of research) the best recommendation I can make is when you're doing your snacks / meals is skip the carbs and eat 90% protein in this phase.  The main goal is to lose a bit of weight (loosen your body up a little) as well as shrink the liver so it's more safe to operate. 

The open surgery does have something to do with your diet difference.  The doctor doesn't have to worry about working as close w/ the liver w/ a scope as he has better access to the entire area.

Good Luck!!!

My dr usually does 100% meal replacements for 2 -3 weeks prior to surgery. Because I did very well with my inital weight loss he allowed me 1 "meal" each day. I chose to have a low fat lunch each day, with protein shakes for breakfast and dinner because I didn't want a heavy stomach at the end of the day, when my metabolism is slowing down.

Maybe try your "meal" earlier in the day and save the replacement for dinner?

good luck with your surgery!!

Mary

pre-op SUCKS!!!!  Mine was full liquids (no puddings, yogurt, etc.) Just clear liquids and 3-4 shakes a day not to exceed 700 calories.  I cried more in the pre-op phase than post op.  But it will be worth it - you can do it!