Post-Op Diet: Final Day of Phase 1

Today's the final day of the Phase 1 diet, and good riddance. Although it will be quite a while until I eat solid food, I am looking forward to a tiny bit more variety, plus some protein.

Phase 2, which starts tomorrow, includes a protein shake -- milk (any kind) plus protein powder, no fruit yet -- consumed over the course of the day. You can also eat small portions of Greek yogurt, and thicker juices such as V8.

Phase 1 and 2 combined are two weeks. For Phase 3, you'll have to keep reading. Ha! I'm kidding, but I'm determined not to look too far ahead. One day at a time.

Yesterday I learned why you are advised to use 3-4 ounce portions! I poured a tiny extra bit of juice, such a small amount, it seemed harmless.. but ugh, it hurt going down. I didn't do it on purpose, but I will purposely avoid that now.

Other than that occasional discomfort, I feel fine! No complaints.

Post-Op Diet: Phase 1

For the first five days after surgery, you can have only clear liquids: water, coconut water, grape juice, apple juice, herbal tea, strained broth. (Gatorade-type drinks, flavoured water, and jello are also allowed, but I don't eat those.)

The key to this is taking small amounts, frequently. The guidelines are 3-4 ounces, sipped, not gulped, every hour. 

Today is Day 4. It's not bad. I already notice something that I know will be an ongoing adjustment. I open the fridge to get juice, and I see food -- and my head feels hungry, not my stomach. In other words, it's not actually hunger, it's a desire to eat. 

Your stomach "teaches" your brain: the hormones secreted by your stomach tell your brain that you're hungry. While this is happening, you look at food, think about what you want to eat, and your brain associates looking and thinking about food with hunger. Your brain learns that food makes you hungry. 

During Phase 1, 2, and 3 of the gastric sleeve diet, I'll be re-wiring that connection, listening to my stomach instead of my head.