Protein issues with each new stage

Hi, I am on day 16 post op. I am soon ending my puree stage, and going into soft food stage. I met with my NUT today. I told her I am having trouble, because, as I eat more foods, I have a hard time getting in my required protein, without upping my calories. I notice as I eat, my calories are creeping up, and my protein is not enough. She said I should stop the protein drinks and get the protein from food. She said I am doing well. I lost 15 pounds since surgery and 31 pounds since my pre op liquid diet. Can any one recommend how I handle this and what I should be eating to get my adequate protein in and keeping my calories down. Thanks

Give us a list of what you typically eat in a day and we can troubleshoot for you.  What kind of protein drinks do you use?  Some of them are VERY high in carbs and calories.  That makes a big difference.  I just don't think you will ever meet your protein goals, at 16 days out, without protein drinks.  You can not possibly eat enough protein with your new, tiny, pouch.  In the future, when you can eat more volume, the protein shakes can disappear.  For now, you need to get your protein in so you don't lose muscle mass and so you can heal properly.

Heres a typical day. Since I can eat only 2 oz. at a time every 3 hours here it is

Meal #1 4 oz. greek yogurt with unflavored protein added

        #2 2oz. refried beans with a little L/F mozarella

        #3 2 oz. pureed salmon with non fat mayo

        #4 2 oz. Hummus

        #5 Protein drink

Thanks for your help

I realize your on the soft food phase, but when you move onto regular foods you will find you can pick more protein heavy, carb light foods.  Right now your calories are coming in with a lot of carbs.  Have you tried cream soups, eggs, and cottage cheese?  the beans and hummus are just carb packed.

I agree about the beans and hummus...too many carbs.  Try tuna or fresh salmon grilled.  I had a very difficult time with chicken for the longest time.  I was able to tolerate beef before chicken, so I used to make a beanless home made chili.

Good luck.

JA

Keep in mind that protein has calories.  You can't up your protein without upping your calories and at this stage in your recovery adequate protein is vastly more important than an extra 100-200 calories.

Fish, canned tuna, refried beans with shredded cheese, Wendy's chili, Dannon lite and fit protein yogurt were my staples in the early months.