I am still technically on the pureed stage until July 18th but I have been "cheating" with some soft foods. I've had bbq pulled pork, canned peaches, watermelon, omelets, cheese sticks, a bit of fish, and my favorite -- scallops. I chew really well and try to take my time, but some foods will cool too quickly and stretching a meal to 20-25 minutes long is almost impossible.
I've been on a stall for the last week or so, so I am taking it day by day and just trying to get my fluids and protein in. The protein (80 grams) is definitely harder than getting 60 oz of fluids/water in. I am still not hitting either of them, though.
I think work will be distracting, but I plan on setting timers to remind me to eat and sip the entire day. I think for breakfast I may bring either cream of wheat or a protein shake; however, I may have to wake up and make my shake and throw it in the freezer until I leave so that it stays colder longer. For lunch I'm planning to have yogurt and I may try to save what I can't eat for a "snack" later in the afternoon. I think lunch planning will be easier once I get further out and on soft and regular foods. My options seem so limited right now.
One of the possible side effects of surgery is experiencing "dumping syndrome" -- this can be an array of symptoms from eating something that doesn't agree with you -- such as profuse sweating, rapid heart rate, stomach ache, nausea, and diarrhea. Two days ago I experienced my first dumping symptoms -- diarrhea and profuse sweating. Guess what from? Watermelon. I had three large chunks from a small container I bought recently. I freaking LOVE watermelon. It is so sweet and watery and just YUM. I figured in my head -- hey, it's FRUIT...AND I'm getting fluids in without having to drink more boring water. Dumping wasn't fun and definitely not worth risking it for more watermelon. I posted on a board on FB and a nurse said that watermelon is a natural laxative. Sure enough it is!
I will probably try watermelon again in smaller quantities -- like only one piece once a day. I've learned my lesson, though and trying to get back to what I am supposed to be eating. Pureed foods just don't appeal to me, though -- I may just have to stick with eggs and soups and yogurt.
Back to the scallops. I bought 4 at Publix the other day and after looking up how to make seared scallops, Rich prepared them for me in a matter of minutes and they were TO DIE FOR. And I had no ill effects, felt full, AND got protein in. They were amazing. I plan on having those at least once a week because they were also only $2.60. Cheaper than any dinner out somewhere!
So come Monday morning it'll be fun to put on my "go to black dress pants" that I wore to work twice a week because that was all that fit me. I wouldn't mind if they're too big. I still hate my closet though -- I hate my work clothes in general and would prefer to wear under armor pants and tank tops. They just don't make me feel good and look frumpy. That will all change soon, though.
I can definitely see a difference in my face. My skin is clearer and it has slimmed down a bit. I've noticed my husband has lost weight too -- his face is slimmer! He is not eating out as much as we used to together - I am very proud of him!
Tomorrow we're going to a Fourth of July party and one of his co-workers' houses. I will probably eat before I go because I have no idea what she is serving. I'm making a very yummy looking banana pudding cake to share - hope it comes out like the picture!
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