Counting calories

Ok, Im still in the pre-op stages, and trying to figure out what exactly to expect with the diet, both pre-op and post op. I have had two seperate meetings with a dietician, and in both of those meetings, she has stressed low carb and high protein. Nothing has been said about counting calories. However, I've noticed in a few of the spots that I've visited that alot of people are. Is this something that has to be done, or is it just something people do? I would think that with the limits on the diet that the lower calories should be pretty much be the norm, unless you're eating stuff you shouldn't be eating. Am I right, and is it just the carbs and proteins I should really worry about?

Thanks!
CJ

I think its handled differently in different parts of the world and its also down to how YOU like to do it too. Some people love the routine of calorie counting, food recording etc, and thrive on that.

Me, I just eat what I want when I want and that worked too. I dont count anything, calories, carbs or protein.

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Jacqui

My dietician says that it's not necessary to count calories and to focus on getting adequate nutrition. Calorie counting makes me utterly obsessed about food all day, all week and not in a good way. It works for some people and not for others.

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BANDED - 6/6/07

My nutricianist has had me keep a food journal so that I am aware of how fast calories add up. I date it, write down what I eat and keep a running tally in the margin. Some days are really a surprise to me--not in a good way! I am surprised at how it has taught me better food choices. It also holds me accountable. I was brutally honest in the beginning, but knowing that she will critique it, sometimes I leave things out or am not as honest about quantities as I should be. It also motivates me to exercise, because everyone is given a calorie counter book, and in the front, there is a chart showing how much expenditure there is with different forms of exercise. For example, I like to walk and for my weight, I will burn 7 calories a minute for brisk walking. If I walk 1/2 hour, I can subtract 210 calories from my daily amount, but if I walk for 1 hour, I can subtract 420 calories. I have found that to be the biggest bonus. Hope I've helped. Barb

Hi all you banders. My doc told me eat 3 healthy meals a day. Have 2 snacks and drink 64 oz. of liquid. My 3 meals consist of 1/2 cup each. (this includes protein 1st, veg. then fruit) My snack sugar free popcicle or pudding. Hard boiled egg or small piece of fruit or yogurt. Keep it low fat and healthy. He told me not to count calories and stay away from the empty calorie junk foods. Try to get in 60 grams of protein. This still is a diet with the help of the band. :bandit:bandit:bandit:bandit

CJ - I agree with Barb - this is how i do it too ---

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IndioGirl55 Lucky #7
Banded 7/17/07 - Lost 112 lbs
Eat Healthy+Exercise+Band=Success