For future reference...

I am wondering how much protein you should get in your diet daily after Roux en y gastric bypass surgery and what is the best way to get it? I don't have a surgery date yet but I an trying to plan everything in advance so I can be as prepared as possible. Besides, it is hard to just sit and wait for a date. Thanks, Karen

Depends on your surgeon.  I have to get 60-80 grams per day but most days I get more than that.  In the beginning, most of your protein will come from shakes or other drinks.  Later on, they want most of your protein to come from food.  Right now, I'm half and half.  Word of advice,  don't go out and buy a bunch of protein drinks.  Your tastes will change after surgery so what you like today you may not can stand after surgery.  BariatricEating.com and Vitalady.com have samples that you can buy.

While you are waiting for a date you should go ahead and start some kind of exercise program.  Cut out the sodas because they are a no-no after surgery (forever!!!!)  Learn to love water- plain or with sugar free flavorings(crystal light, koolaid, etc.)  Start cutting out sugar and hope and pray that you are one of the people that will dump on too much sugar.  I don't eat anything that has more than 8 grams of sugar in it so I don't know if I will dum*****t.  I'm not planning on finding out.  The fear of dumping is enough to keep me on track!!!  Go ahead and stop drinking with your meals and for 30-60 minutes after  meals.  That's a hard thing to do.  I still find myself trying to drink right after eating.  All fo these things are hard to do in the beginning but in the long run, it's all worth it.  You're in for the ride of your life.  ENJOY!!  I don't regret my decision to have surgery at all.  Just wish I had done it sooner!!! Good Luck!! and keep us posted. Melissa#3

 

Thanks for all the advice. believe it or not I have already started in a way. I had decided against the surgery last year but this year, shortly before I reconsidered, I started drinking diet tea and sugar free lemonade instead of carbonated drinks. I used to be a diet pepsi addict. So that is one hurdle already breached. I do avoid sugar because I am a diabetic. I will work on the other things you mentioned like not drinking with meals. Exercise is limited right now as I use a wheelchair but I'm planning to try some walking in a swimming pool as soon as I can.  I have to admit that I have been scouting out protein sources but haven't bought anything yet. I may be a long way from surgery because my insurance requires a 6 month MD supervised diet.

Thanks so much for your response. It is very helpful.

Karen

I recommend you go to a book store and buy Weight loss Surgery for dummies it has saved my life That is my best friend it travels with me every where.

Thanks so much. I'm an avid reader and will look for it the next time I'm at Books-A-Million. Blessings, Karen