Loosing weight put on after surgery

Question
Hi George,

    I was researching online today and I came across your website. I have been recovering from jaw surgery that included a bone graft. The surgeon had to take bone from my hip to put in my face because I did not have enough under my upper lip. Anyway, it has been about a month since the surgery, but my surgeon has advised that I continue a liquid/mashed diet for a long while. I am frustrated because I seem to have done nothing but gain weight this whole time! I have been trying to get back to my everyday workout routine, but lately it has really been hurting my hip. I'm not doing much, just walking on the treadmill for about an hour, but that may be too much.
    Anyway, now that you have a bit of background...what can I do to ensure that I loose the weight I've put on? How many calories should I eat, even if I can't get up and move like I used to? Also, do you have any exercise suggestions for the time being?
    I really appreciate your time. I'm sure that you are a busy man, but I figured you might be able to help me. I hope you have a nice day!
~Clarissa

Answer
Hi Clarissa!

   Thank you for your nutrition question. Hope you are feeling better.  I know mash diets can be difficult but hang in there.  The following website will help you to calculate your proper calorie intake.  Just enter your information and it will tell you calculate it for you.  http://www.wvda.org  
   As for weight loss, it involves eating right and staying active.  Staying active might be tough since you are still recovering but try finding activities to keep the calories burning.  Here are some suggestions:  water walking because it is no-impact and is very useful for injury recovery.  Take a brisk 10-minute walk or wheel in the morning, at lunch, and after dinner. Do some light weight lifting with 3lb dumbells to help build muscle in the bicep area.  Muscle burns calories!
  Another suggestion I would make is Juice Plus+ which is a whole food supplement made from fresh fruits and vegetables.  It can also help with weight loss because it helps your body burn calories more efficiently.  The website to purchase it is http://www.juiceblend.com  Let me know if you have more questions.

-George Rapitis, BSc. Nutritionist  

1. Prev:Diet and cabohydrates
2. Next:Nutrition and body building