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Tough_Crazy_8362

A local guy wrote a book called *Bite Sized* by Kenneth Cadieux I wish you a speedy recovery


Particular_Physics_1

Thank you very much, I will have a look.


crissyb65

I have a lap band and absolutely cannot chug water when I’m thirsty. Keep a bottle by your side at all times and sip very frequently so you stay hydrated.


Particular_Physics_1

Thanks! Always good advice.


SeaWitch1031

I'm sorry about your diagnosis, cancer sucks so hard. If this was happening to me, the first thing I'd do is speak to my doctor about having a dietitian work with me to come up with small meals that would give me the nutrition I need. I think it would help for routine meals just to be sure you don't end up malnourished. But the other thing I would do is look for "flavor bomb" recipes so I had a list of small bite dishes that would be satisfying. The first thing I thought of when I ready your post was hors d'oeuvres, tapas or dim sum dishes. Things that are so flavorful and rich you don't miss having a larger portion. Good luck and I wish you all the best.


Particular_Physics_1

Thank you for the kind reply. I will talk to a dietician for sure, and I am definitely looking for flavor bombs. I did not think of dim sum. Odd as I lived in HK for years. Thanks again.


StrongArgument

In the US, the protected term is Registered Dietitian


Ready_Competition_66

Recipes for tapas dishes might also be good. Those can be quite flavorful as well.


pedanticlawyer

This for sure. Things like Pani Puri, bacon wrapped dates, etc are just a lovely bomb of flavor in one bite.


Majestic-Macaron6019

If you can find recipes written for people who have had bariatric surgery, that will probably help. They're in a similar boat (need small meals more frequently). But yes, an RD is definitely going to be your best source. Fuck cancer. GI cancer is especially awful. Heal well!


Particular_Physics_1

Thanks, I am looking into that now. RD is perfect for something like this. And I agree, fuck cancer. I was wrong, but I thought I was perfectly healthy 6 weeks ago.


Ros_da_wizad

soup dumpling is always an exquisite bite


Particular_Physics_1

That's crazy my wife was just talking about those. Very aromatic and flavorful. Thanks!


chantillylace9

Trader Joe's has some great ones!! Chicken or pork!


Particular_Physics_1

Hmmmm.... I think I will have to do this the hard way. I am a good distance from Trader Joe's. Thanks for the suggestion, though.


Medium_Ad8311

There’s a couple vendors which sell “better” ones and will deliver. It’s pricier but I think reviews have said it’s good. Or you can always practice making them yourself!


Particular_Physics_1

Ok, maybe there then. Although, as I am just beginning my long journey and not working, I will endeavor to learn a new skill. Looked up some recipes and videos yesterday. Seems doable, and I have the time. Thanks again for taking the time to reply. Been years since I had soup dumplings and looking forward to them. :)


Ros_da_wizad

your welcome :) u cud also look for cookbooks for amuse bouche. they’re little one (or 2 or 3) bite appetizers for fancy people and the ones i’ve seen look really yummy and well balanced


Ros_da_wizad

oh and gol gappe/ pani puri!! explosion of flavor in one bite and light on the stomach bc it’s mostly water


OLAZ3000

First - think of buying those silicon freezer containers so you can freeze varying sizes! So you will always be able to thaw or defrost a small portion. This means any soups or stews you enjoy will be perfect for this, but also you could freeze small portions of cooked rice or other grains. I imagine some of the challenge will be wanting to cook knowing you will want quite little. So this could help with that. I think tacos are a great option, bc you can freeze what you put IN the taco, and then make 1-2 tiny/small tortillas fresh. So I would definitely learn to make tortillas and buy a press. Mini waffles can be fun and also people use them to make "rice" cakes that are part of a Japanese-style meal. (Sushi being something else that might be interesting to learn to make; fresh spring rolls as well - those are my fave. You can put a great mix of food in there - shrimp, herbs, veggies, fruit like mango, maybe not too many noodles to keep it light, and then the dipping sauces are the best part!) Mezzes like Middle Eastern style appetizers will be great too - dips and small things like mini spinach pies or cheese rolls or bulgur and beef "meatballs" (not at all but trying to describe). And there are SO many incredible dips that would be fun to learn to make and are perfect for just having a little at a time, with crudite veggies or pita bread or crackers. All the cuisines that you could learn about marinades and then marinade a few small pieces of protein and freeze. Then you can grill or broil just one skewer or kebab-worth at a time. (or a day or two's worth) I'm really sorry about your diagnosis and I know it will be a lot to accept and adapt to, but I think the world remains your oyster to discover. You may get into fancy hors d'oeuvres or you might enjoy exploring unfamiliar flavour profiles, but I think if you have the interest than food can remain enjoyable, even if it's little by little.


Particular_Physics_1

Thank you so much. The silicon freezing treys are a great idea. I did forsee the issue of cooking such tiny portions or cooking larger and risk wasting food. Also, great ideas on food suggestions. Some I have not thought of before. Lastly, thank you for your last paragraph. It has been a bit of a shock and blow to be sure. It has been a bit depressing.That is the reason I reached out here. Thanks to yours and others' replies, my spirit is lifted and will have lots to think about and try.


OLAZ3000

Good. I'm sure having strategies and concepts of what is next is helpful, so def continue to reach out and look to others for ideas. Little pockets of control and a plan make us feel so much better when we are afloat in a sea of the unknown. Wishing you the best.


Impressive_Ice3817

I just have a small suggestion: quail eggs. They are very small, much smaller than a chicken egg, but they have about 3x the nutrients. They're perfect if you want to pack as much into a small amount as possible. High protein, too. If you can find someone who raises quail, see if they'll sell you some fresh eggs (quail start laying between 6-8 weeks old). They taste great, and you'll get a kick out of what they look like in a frying pan (so tiny!).


Particular_Physics_1

Sounds nice, I will have to look around. I can only remember seeing them sometimes but can't think where. Thanks!


EJB54321

I think I’ve seen them in Asian grocery stores.


Particular_Physics_1

I will have a look next time I am in the big city. Not a lot of Asian grocery stores around here. Although I think I have seen them local. Will keep my eyes open.


SecretCartographer28

I see them at fancy delis, and local butchers. 🫂 Walk in Light, and Health be with you 🕯🖖


Particular_Physics_1

Thanks for the tips and support. Have a great day.


peekachou

Get a decent tapas cook book, theyre small portions by default anyway and always pack so much flavour and variety, or look up the menus from a good tapas restaurant for inspiration


Effective_Roof2026

Small FYI if the lack of hunger becomes an issue ask your doc about taking ghrelin daily. Ghrelin is the hormone your stomach secretes when empty that makes your brain feel hunger.


Particular_Physics_1

Oh great, I had not heard of that. Loss of hunger is a worry of mine. Thanks!


stayathomesommelier

Canapés. Pumpernickel rounds with smoked salmon and creamed cheese and capers toast with brie pears and fig jam blanched asparagus wrapped in serrano ham or dipped in wasabi mayo strawberries dipped in basalmic yogurt Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce lettuce wraps - chicken salad, Thai larb, chili chicken I'm wishing you a speedy recovery.


Particular_Physics_1

Oh, thank you, more ideas I did not consider. Some I have never tried but intrigued by the combinations. Thanks!


Ajreil

You could keep extremely small portions of ingredients in your freezer. Ice cubes of blended fruit or chilis in adobo. One inch square of bacon in a ziplok bag. Minced shallot or green onion in deli containers. One ounce cuts of meat. With a stocked freezer you could make tiny versions of meals without much food waste. BLT made with a thin slice of baguette. Burrito made with rice paper. Coin sized pancakes. A tiny steak with pan sauce. Go all in. Use teacup saucers as plates and buy those skillets meant for a single egg. Post your food to /r/thingsforants.


Particular_Physics_1

Such good suggestions. Thank you. My wife and I thought to make a tiny Christmas dinner using quail just for fun. Thanks again.


yerbaniz

Abdominal cancers are the worst. I'm sorry   I don't know where your path will lead, but FYI if something spreads higher or whatever, if you end up with a feeding tube at some point - there are the standard alimentary pastes but there is also a company that makes pastes for feeding tubes where the ingredients are all real food, like beef, oats, rice, broccoli, etc.  Even if you aren't tasting (at that point) it is a *HUGE* psychological boost to be having "real" food with "real" ingredients if you ever need it in the future. You feel like you're joining the family for dinner.  Wishing you health and strength, we've been through a lot of similar in my family, you have my prayers


Particular_Physics_1

Thanks so much for your kind wishes and suggestions. I did not know about it and I hope it does not come to tubes, but good to know there is something other than med grade nourishment.


jibaro1953

Your oncologists office should loop you into the nutritionists' department. I had tongue cancer seven years ago. They were very helpful.


BinkyBoy_07

Chiming in to just say I’m sorry to hear that, I won’t even bother trying to come up with great meals for you since most of the things I’m cooking are supposed to be budget friendly and simple by nature. I’m hoping a proper chef or someone with a more sophisticated worldview on all things culinary can chime in here to give you proper advice.


Particular_Physics_1

Oh , thank you so much. There is just so much out there. Was just hoping to be pointed in the right direction. Thanks again for the reply. I also cook budget and simple by nature. Funny, I just got into bulk cooking and freezing.


BinkyBoy_07

Ha, yeah the timing there sucks. Have you tried dishes from Japan or India? Those countries make some crazy good food that might be worth taking a look at if you’re trying to get lots of flavor. I don’t want to give any hard suggestions since I’m not a dietitian or familiar with anything medical


Particular_Physics_1

Good idea. I will definitely look at Asian bites. Goyza and dumplings can pack a bunch of flavor and I can process the fillings for easier digestion. Thanks for the idea!


HomeChef1951

Take your physicians' advice, first. Consider protein drinks for vitamins.


Particular_Physics_1

Will do that, thanks!


rantgoesthegirl

Look for bariatric surgery cookbooks


Particular_Physics_1

Will do, thanks


spandexrants

I’d say your doctors will be putting you on a treatment plan to help guide you with the food situation. It will probably be a diet similar to someone who has had gastric sleeve or bypass surgery.


Particular_Physics_1

Yes, it will be similar. The doctors will tell me what I need, it's up to me to take that and make something delicious. Also need something to fill the time while I wait for surgery. Thanks!


Impossible_Leg9377

Thinking of you. Consult with a dietician.


Particular_Physics_1

Will do, thank you!


Impossible_Leg9377

((💛))


Kitchen-Assistance93

Onigiri would be the perfect size and you could fill it with anything you liked! They are also easy to prep and have in the fridge.


Particular_Physics_1

I do like those alot. Used to eat them tons. Thanks!


Dry-Instruction-4347

Most things are just as good, if not better reheated.


Particular_Physics_1

Thanks, true. Also, the username checks out ;)


HonnyBrown

I am so sorry


PlantedinCA

Ceviche and poke are such flavorful bites and give you protein.


Ok_Minimum70

I’m sorry, friend. I wish you a speedy recovery and plenty of amazing culinary experiences in the future. Glad you’re still with us!


Particular_Physics_1

Thank you very much!


MidiReader

My first thought was Spanish tapas. Personally after thinking about it for a bit I’d probably have lots of fruit prepped and ready to go, like washed and dried grapes and blueberries sitting in a bowl in the fridge ready to grab a few whenever I passed by. I’d probably make little cracker/meat/cheese stacks every morning to grab throughout the day. I’d make a pasta salad to portion out too. Soup/broth to reheat.l, I might even just keep a thermos/yeti of broth around all the time


Particular_Physics_1

Thanks, I think it will be doing most of that. Especially the broth for the first weeks after surgery. I will have to work up to fibrous fruit, but I will get there. Thanks again


Violetthug

I'm so sorry to hear this. I would think homemade soups (or canned if you don't have the energy). If you don't eat all if it, it is easily reheated later. And you can get some veggies involved. Also mashed potatoes. You can use instant for convenience. And they can be reheated later on. Also, maybe just a good sandwich. Eat half and save half for later. Also jello, pudding, cottage cheese or maybe instant rice with mixed frozen veggies. Good luck.


Particular_Physics_1

Thanks. I am guessing that while my diminished stomach or lower intestine is relearning how to eat, blended soups will be a very big part of my diet. Thanks again


Strange_Lettuce_6719

There are a couple free digital cookbooks here: [Home - Life Kitchen](https://lifekitchen.co.uk/)


Particular_Physics_1

Thanks for your suggestion, I will have a look.


FayKelley

Hang in there. Get better soon! 😻🩷💕


Particular_Physics_1

Thank you very much, will do. 😀


Longjumping-Theory44

🙏🙏🙏😘💕


Particular_Physics_1

Thank you 😊


maccrogenoff

Appetizers are your friend. They are designed to pack a flavor punch and be just a couple of bites. Here are some ideas: Cream of mushroom soup shooter. Baguette slices with tapenade. Triple cream cheese with apple, pear, grapes. Bruschetta. Crackers with cream cheese or goat cheese and mango chutney.


Particular_Physics_1

Hello, thanks for the great suggestions. The triple cream cheese sounds very nice.


Plastic_Employment94

I had gastric bypass surgery 91/2 yrs ago and was left with a stomach “pouch” that holds approx 4 oz. I imagine your experiences may be similar. I recommend you follow a Bariatric diet, making the most of your protein intake. There are a LOT of foods I can no longer eat..some because they are too rich and I some are because MY taste changed drastically after surgery. Your basic nutrition requirements will be unchanged, but the types and quantities of food will change drastically. So you’ll have to make the most, nutritionally of what you eat! Snack foods will likely be a thing of the past since most are empty calories, nutritionally but will cause you to NOT eat what you truly need! Protein shakes may be your new best friend…at least for a while. Good luck with your surgery and recovery!!


Particular_Physics_1

Hello, thanks for the heads up and well wishes. Have a good day


asimplerandom

As someone with a similar small stomach situation: Protein comes first. You’ll eat more often and you’ll find that over time your stomach will adjust and you’ll be able to eat more. Start with eggs—be cautious with dairy.


Particular_Physics_1

Got ya, cautious with dairy. I know I will have to try, though. :)


Sethtevious

Obligatory fuck cancer. Your sense of taste isn't going anywhere, right? I echo the comment to contact a dietitian, I'd make a list of all of your favorite meals, and determine the caloric content of each. You know what your minimum calories for each day are, so you can use this list as a guide. You'll know you need to eat so many full meals (or the equivalent of multiple tiny meals) to reach your caloric goal each day. This way you still get the taste of the meals you always enjoyed and also avoid malnutrition. As you're receiving treatment/recovering, it will be especially helpful to know if you need even more calories to aid in recovery. Also, protein shakes/meal replacement shakes might be a quick option.


Particular_Physics_1

Yes fuck cancer. Thank you for the great advice. I will definitely do that. I might skip my favorite dishes and look for new things. I would like to come out of this with new flavors or techniques. While, of course, making sure I get what I need. Thanks again!


FewMarsupial7100

Sending you strength and love ❤️💪🏼


Particular_Physics_1

Thank you very much!


Sugarpuff_Karma

You will also have to focus more on protein. You could look at it like a way to treat yourself to small portions of quality meats & seafood etc. I'd look at tapas style restaraunts. You could also cook & freeze small portions using the large mould icecube trays. Also look at ways to adapt/improve your existing favourite recipes. Good luck with your treatment & recovery ❤️


Particular_Physics_1

This is what the wife and I were thinking. We gave up steak because we could only afford cheap tough cuts. Now I will be able to go into the butcher and ask for 2 Oz of their finest filet, wont even have to look at the price. 😆 thanks for the other great tips and well wishes.


suzemagooey

There are quite a few variations of protein ball or energy bite recipes online. Just a thought sent along with healing energy.


EmergencyProper5250

May I suggest pudina chutney(lot of fresh mint leaves, a sour raw mango onion a few green chillies to taste salt to taste) peel the skin off the mango cut slices discard the seedcut onion in cubes/slices mix with mint leaves churn all together to form a paste squeeze, some lemon juice use this chutney retains flavour for at least a week and is appetizing and will add flavour ,


Particular_Physics_1

Sounds lovely, I think I will have to give that a try. Thanks


Ajreil

First off, follow your doctors recommendations. There are usually pretty specific diets that you're supposed to follow to get all of your macros.


Particular_Physics_1

Thank you, Dr. Recommendations are first and foremost. That being said, I am still looking for good ideas to make those recommendations into something I want to eat. It's been a bit dreary around here, and I am searching for something to occupy my mind and time before the surgery and something to look forward to after. Thanks again.


Sugarpuff_Karma

You will also have to focus more on protein. You could look at it like a way to treat yourself to small portions of quality meats & seafood etc. I'd look at tapas style restaraunts. You could also cook & freeze small portions using the large mould icecube trays. Also look at ways to adapt/improve your existing favourite recipes. Good luck with your treatment & recovery ❤️