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Nutritionist referrals in Newport News, VA from Feb 08, 2018
Kerri G. asked:
So since before thanksgiving I have been attempting to cut down on my animal products in my diet.... I am eliminating red meat (which has been done) and pork (which has been done), then chicken and fish... followed by dairy. My ultimate goal is to eventually be 100% vegan, but because of my dietary needs and wanting it to be an entire lifestyle change I am doing it slowly.... my biggest challenge with eliminating animal products from my diet is that I have had the gastric bypass surgery in 2008..... I am already at a disadvantage for many reasons. I cannot eat large amounts of food at any one time, so I try to do 6 small meals. Truth is, I’m lucky if I’m hungry enough to eat 3 small meals in any given day... anything protein packed or heavy on the carbs, my intake is reduced drastically. Honestly, I would be happy to get to a place where I am a successful vegetarian for a couple of years before I transition to vegan. I try and make as many vegan substitutes as I can. I feel like any meal or snack I eat that has little to no animal product in it is a win for my ultimate goal.... Are there any nutritionists in the area that are versed in plant based diets and the special needs I have. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I would love to eventually live a vegan lifestyle, but if I have medical hurdles to overcome, every meal I can eliminate an animal source makes me happy.
Ashley F. answered:
I’m not fully understanding what medical hurdles you’re referring to. There are many vegan foods you can eat small portions of that are high in fats, proteins, carbs, fiber etc. I’m hearing that eating meat and dairy is the only way you can think of to feel full/ not lose excessive weight? If that’s your thought process, then I’m sure we can debunk that for you. You don’t have to be hungry as vegan. Even on smaller portions. Maybe if you can clarify more, we can provide some ideas for you on how to be vegan, feel full, and maintain a healthy weight!
Angela S. answered:
Kerri Gibbs My mother was a vegetarian (not vegan) and had the surgery. For the first couple of years, she had to drink those little nutrition shakes in a tube that they recommend. SHe would eat the LightLife or Tofurkey sandwich slices with a piece of cheese on crackers. Oatmeal. Anytime she'd eat small portions of a normal meal, she'd barf it up. After a few years, she was able to eat normally again...mostly. Lettuce and veggies seemed to give her problems, but she had other medical issues so I'm not sure what caused her to have a hard time with veggies. SHe did not gain the weight back once she could eat normally, but some people do if they are not careful.
Sarah C. answered:
I’m not a nutritionist, but I had gastric bypass in 2009 and have been vegan for 3 years. I’d be happy to answer any questions or help in any way that I can.
Jean M. answered:
I'm a plant based dietitian and I'm happy to help you!
Kerri G. answered:
I appreciate all the positive responses and people who understand the hurdles I’m trying to over come.... any meal I eat cannot be larger than the equivalent of a small apple.... I also don’t ever feel hungry, I would be happy to drink a giant glass of ice water than eat.... and if I can get a giant cup of the good ice (Sonics ice) I don’t even want to eat any food. Over the years I have suffered thru the effects of poor nutrition. and as much as I want to eliminate animal products as a source of protein I’m afraid eliminating that will cause more problems than help... and for the record my wanting to transition to vegan has way more to do with health versus animal rights. I love animals and I’m trying to not eat them, but eggs and dairy will be the very last things I eliminate from my diet, if I am able to at all. Jean Maxwell I would love to come and work with you as soon as my health insurance kicks in
