I miss chewing....

I literally mean I miss chewing..... FOOD!

I'm on Day 5 of 14 of my pre-op liquid diet before my surgery on Friday, October 4th and it is ROUGH!! On a good note, I've lost about 3 pounds since starting it.

The dietcian at my surgeon's office recommends either Slim Fast High Protein (180 calories, 20 grams protein) or Glucerna Hunger Smart Shakes (180 calories, 15 grams protein). Both are meal replacement shakes and both taste HORRIBLE! But, alas, I carry on. I have learned to just chug as much as I can and immediately chase it with something better flavored. This morning for "breakfast" I followed the Creamy Chocolate Slim Fast with Diet Pepsi. It helped.

To help with my missing chewing, I am chewing gum like a mad woman! I have found the sugar-free bubble gum ones to be the best. More chewing action with those than the spearmint or fruit flavored gums.

I had my final consult with my surgeon yesterday to answer any questions and go over tons of educational information with him and the bariatric nurse. They are really great about educating their patients before, during and after the procedures. They are also real sticklers to the program specifics. So when I left, I had a shopping list of things to get that I thought I'd share to see if any of your surgeons recommend the same or if you had further suggestions.

Shopping List:

1. Listerine Antiseptic -- because your mouth has a RIDICULOUS amount of germs and bacteria in it. It specifically had to be antiseptic to kill those and help prevent any nasties after surgery. I started swishing and gargling this morning.
2. Lip balm or chap stick for dry lips -- the nurse informed me that lips tend to dry out quite a bit following surgery. Who knew?!
3. Antibacterial soap like Dial or Safeguard -- for obvious reason. Kill as much bacteria as possible beforehand.
4. Vitamins -- as discussed with the dietician earlier, chewable of course.
5. Protein powder that can be mixed with both water and/or milk.
6. Liquids to have at home after discharge: Crystal Light, Gatorade, PowerAde, broth, Sugar-free popsicles, Sugar-free Jello, Propel Fitness water, Water, Sugar-free Kool-Aid, Juices such as apple, white grape or cranberry juice.

Any suggestions from veteran banders as to what else I should purchase to help post-op?

Many thanks!