How do I eat low fat and still eat appetizing foods?

Question

Next week I am scheduled to have my gallbladder and appendex taking out because of severe complications I am currently having. The doctor has already placed me on a low fat diet (25-35 grams of fat per day), and I am COMPLETELY not used to this way of life. I'm all about meat... potatoes... butter... and lots of grease. I enjoy lots of spice, as well. I already know with my gallbladder out I will need to be close to a bathroom after a more-than-bland meal.

But my question is... where can I find tasty recipies that will satisfy my fatty cravings yet ultimately be low-fat? How do I turn my already-perfect recipies to be easier on the fat? Generally---how should I go about decreasing my daily fat intake?

Answer 1

here's some resources for you. each one has TONS of recipes. it's not that hard. you just eat food with a lot of flavor, and use a lot of natural flavor enhancers like herbs and spices. good luck!

Low Fat Recipes
http://www.low-fat-recipes.com/

About: Low Fat Cooking
http://lowfatcooking.about.com/

Low fat Lifestyle:
http://www.lowfatlifestyle.com/

FAT FREE: The Low Fat Vegetarian Recipe Archive:
http://www.fatfree.com/

Better Recipes Low-Fat Recipes:
http://lowfat.betterrecipes.com/

Answer 2

Firstly, once your gallbladder is gone fat will not bother you so much (although a whole lot can cause diarrhea). My dad had his out years ago and he pretty much eats what he wants. But a high fat diet is so unhealthy in other ways, you really should make the effort.
Start small-trim meats as much as possible, cut down on the amounts of oil and fat you cook with and add to your food. Experiment with lower fat versions of things you can't live without-sour cream, mayo, etc.
One simple change that makes a huge difference is don't fry anything-NOTHING. Learn to use herbs and spices to flavor your food instead of fat. Good luck to you.

Answer 3

I'm getting my gallbladder removed as well next week and have been suffering with this for over 6 months.
I stick to carbs, lean protein and Vitamin rich foods for the most part...
Whole wheat breads.
Lean meat...turkey (not processed deli meat)
Lean beef
Skinless chicken breast
Lots of veggies (no butter)
low fat crackers or pretzels for snacks.
I use most spices except go easy on the garlic
Most importantly eat small portions through out the day instead of big meals.
Most fruits are OK too...apple juice (not from concentrate) is actually good for the gallbladder and digestive tract.
Non citrus fruits are best.
grill broil or bake...Never anything fried.
drink plenty of water through out the day.
And lay off dairy products

And also...you are more likely not to have "bathroom issues" if you monitor your portions and fat intake after surgery.
good luck with your surgery!

Answer 4

I'm on a diet, working very hard to lose weight (not the same in the long run, I know). I love pasta and beef, two things that are not the most healthful food in the world for you, and here's how I've found to get around it.

For one to two meals a day, poach a chicken breast. They have virtually little fat, and flavored right can be delicious (and I don't generally like chicken). I usually cook it in chicken broth, and add some crushed garlic and something to spice it up, like thai chilli garlic sauce or plain red pepper flakes. No extra fat in the chicken, plus tons of extra moisture and flavor.

My other suggestion is to cook what you always do, only eating it in smaller portions. For meat, buy the leanest cuts you can find (can get them up to 97% lean!). Butter, use something like a healthy fat alternative like extra virgin olive oil. Potatoes? Substitute a whole grain pasta SINGLE serving. The truth is, very little homemade foods are high in fat. It's the portions you use that will make them high in fat. It will be hard initially, but your stomach will not only shrink but eventually "resist" fatty foods. After staying on my healthy diet, I will honestly vomit if I consume beef less than 93% lean. I cannot handle unrefined sugars or white pasta, bread, or potatoes.

I know your struggle is hard, but I've been there, if for different reasons. I wish you luck...but please believe, it isn't so tough after the first week!

Answer 5

It's normal. To many sweets gets old. I usually just purge after eating a ton of sweets because I get so bloated then eat something more salty so I can get the taste out of my mouth:p Like a few days ago I had this humungo slice of ice cream pie (it was probably like the size of 3 or 4 slices!) so I purged afterwards and ate some top ramen. The purged again. Ha, I wish I had healthier options sometimes:/

Answer 6

This is very easy. Try jam on a ham sandwich. Eat low-fat dressings, lots of filling fruits and vegies and loads of carbs. Oatmeal, wheatbread. Yum

Answer 7

I wouldn't even ask that question here, I would ask my doctor to refer me to a dietitian.
I have, for another medical condition.

I don't ask my banker how to bake bread,
I don't ask my baker about banking.