"Shake it up." ~ R. Ocasek

Several people have contacted me to ask about the protein shakes I am drinking during the liquid diet. They are not anything special, meaning I didn't get them from the doctor or with a prescription or anything. They are the same shakes I have been drinking for breakfast for several months. The dietitian gave me criteria that I needed to follow for choosing a protein drink and she also gave me a list of suggested drinks to try. The rules are that they should have less than 200 calories, less than 30 grams of carbs, and at least 15 grams of protein. I have two that I like best: Atkins Advantage (11 oz.) and EAS AdvantEdge (11 oz.). Others on her list were:

Slim Fast Low Carb Diet (11 oz.)
Glucerna (8 oz.)
Nestle Carnation Instant Breakfast No Sugar Added (1 packet w/ 1 cup of Skim Milk)
Isopure Zero Carb (20 oz.)
Optisource High Protein Drink (8 oz.)
Boost Glucose Control (8 oz.)
Pro Performance 100% Whey Protein (1 scoop)
Designer Whey Protein Powder (1 scoop)

In addition to the two I mentioned that I like, I also tried (and liked) the Slim Fast drink but it tends to be slightly more expensive. I have been able to find all three at my local grocery stores and department stores. Luckily, I can also usually find the Atkins and EAS shakes at Sam's Club where I can buy 12 or 24 packs, instead of the small 4 or 8 packs they sell at the other stores.

The shakes, however, are not why I am not hungry. And, I'm not physically hungry at all. For several months, I have been taking a drug called Topamax as a migraine preventive. Topamax is also used to treat epilepsy, seizure disorders,  neuropathy, and OBESITY. The medicine acts as an appetite suppressant. It also makes some foods and/or drinks taste funny. For example, anything carbonated tastes flat, which has been very helpful since I had to stop drinking pop. I would never advocate for taking unnecessary medication but, if you have been struggling with weight loss, you may want to discuss Topamax with your doctor. I am amazed at how effective it is as an appetite suppressant.

12 more sleeps...