Can barely eat 2oz at a time...

So I am 6 weeks post op, and I have graduated to well-chewed solids. My biggest issue is trying to eat anything! I get full very quickly, and I have a hard time getting even 500 calories per day in.

I eat slowly, chew well, and just can't seem to get much in at all. My weight loss has slowed right down as well, and I maintain the same weight for several days before dropping 1 pound... then rinse and repeat.

Is this normal? I also have a pulling pain in my left side that was there for a couple weeks post op, then went away... and has come back a few days ago.

Help!

Are you meeting your protein goals? How about your liquids?

Protein goals, yes. I do struggle with fluids, I get about 48oz fluids per day, and I am working on increasing that number.

Until you can reliably reach your liquid goals, I would recommend not worrying so much about solid foods or calories. Fluid and avoiding dehydration is the most important thing. When I was transitioning to solid foods I was still drinking two protein shakes a day.

Thank you Gwen, that is sound advice. I have a protein shake every morning for breakfast made with skim milk, perhaps I should add another at lunch. I do find I have very little room for fluids after eating solids!

What Gwen said about liquids, but also that's a totally normal calorie intake for 6 weeks. I was at about 200-300 calories at 2 weeks, 400-500 calories at 6 weeks and by 10 weeks I was up around 600. I'm 6 months out now and getting 700-800 a day finally. It's been a very slow progression (sometimes due to restriction and sometimes on purpose).

My caloric intake is pretty much a mirror of yours Erin! And look at you, so close to goal! I have heard rumor of my sleeve relaxing a little after a good 6 - 9 months, allowing me to take in a little more, and it is good to hear from someone that it actually happens!

I'm a few weeks ahead of you and can't do a full 2 ounces of protein at one time. I feel like i'm progressing slowly too. I should add a protein shake (had one the other day) but i've been trying to stay away from them because i don't like them lol. Sounds like what's going on is normal.

You and me both adistacke. I hate protein shakes, but I had 2 today since I was on the road for over 8 hours to get to and from my doctor, along with a little shopping along the way. No sense buying food on the road, it\s basically all stuff I can't touch with a 10 foot pole.

I had an appointment today with my surgeon for my 6 week follow up, and he agrees with all of you - 2oz protein is as much as I should be able to take in!

He does want me to back off the solids for the time being, as well. He said I need to continue with purees and finely chopped, soft proteins for the time being. Also, he wants me to add a separate meal of just veggies or fruit once per day, since I am having difficulty getting in enough fibre. I found a couple bariatric recipes in my cookbooks for vegetarian chili and vegetarian lentil soup, both of which are packed with fibre, veggies, and even a decent amount of protein!

My doctor is thrilled with my progress so far. He was hoping for 8 - 10 pounds down per month, and I have dropped 24 since surgery 6 weeks ago. My bloodwork all looks great, and he encouraged me to be proud of myself... and to drink as much as I can!