Stage 5 Diet

Duration: Lifelong

Goals

• 64 ounces of fluid/day (clear liquids + full liquids)
• 60 grams of protein/day (Women)
• 70 grams of protein/day (Men & Women 5’8” or taller) 

Guidelines

• You may now add fruits, vegetables and whole grains into your diet.
• Structure remains the same, 3 meals and 2-3 snacks daily.
• Always eat the protein FIRST. Although you can now have fruits, veggies and grains, we do not want you to get full on salad and pasta without any protein.
• Introduce new foods one at a time. If you are not tolerating a certain food wait a few weeks and try it again. Common food intolerances include: pasta, rice and doughy breads, red meat or dry meat and raw fruits and vegetables.
• Choose your carbohydrates wisely – try whole wheat pasta, brown rice, quinoa, whole grain breads. You should not be consuming white bread products or simple carbohydrates such as crackers, pretzels, chips, sweets. 
• High fat, high sugar foods should be avoided. They may make you sick, but also are high in calories and will not aid in weight loss.
• Remember your mindful eating habits.  Chew food thoroughly before swallowing.  Eat SLOW.  Do not overeat. 
• Continue to food log and self-monitor. Focus on meeting protein and fluid goals.

Stage 5:  Sample Meal/Fluid Plan to Meet Nutrition Goals