Strategies for Increasing Caloric Intake Under Strict Dietary Limitations
Greetings, I'm a 27-year-old female, and I'd like to explain my situation—**this is NOT related to an eating disorder**. I've been diagnosed with two vascular compressions, specifically MALS and SMAS, confirmed through a CTA scan. These conditions have caused me to experience intense and severe episodes, prompting me to alter my eating habits significantly. Despite these changes, I'm still facing these episodes. I've adopted a strategy of consuming very small amounts at a time, focusing mainly on soft foods or liquids. Currently, I'm perilously close to losing weight, hovering around 100 to 102 pounds at a height of 5 feet 2 inches—definitely not the ideal range for me. I've been in touch with my gastroenterologist's office again after being advised to reach out to them in case I didn't hear back from the vascular surgery department. I'm also troubled about my weight and how to manage it effectively. However, after leaving a message over a week ago, there has been no response. I eventually identified the office associated with my vascular surgery referral, having the surgeon’s name, but my message there hasn't been returned either. I’m caught in a painful limbo, aware of the serious implications of my vascular compressions but receiving no guidance. I understand that my situation is quite complicated, and I recognize that this forum is not a substitute for professional medical advice, nor do I expect it to be. I’m simply seeking some practical advice as I navigate this challenging time and looking for answers to some basic questions. Currently, I find myself in a difficult position. Being very small and unable to consume typical meal portions—like half a peanut butter sandwich in one sitting, which I can only manage in small bites with breaks—has made nourishment a challenge. I have meal replacement shakes, but they only provide 220 calories each. To boost my caloric intake, I’ve resorted to some unhealthy snacks for quick calories, along with yogurt, sandwiches, applesauce, and my shakes, yet I still feel I'm falling short. It’s mentally taxing to remember to constantly snack throughout the day, but only in tiny amounts. I would greatly appreciate any suggestions for effective ways to increase my calorie intake without consuming large volumes. This is a new challenge for me, so I'm unsure where to begin or what my options might be (other than considering TPN, which I hope to avoid). Thank you in advance for your help! My diagnoses include hEDS, MCAS, POTS, MALS, SMAS, SFN, polyneuropathy, both levoscoliosis and dextroscoliosis, syringomyelia, degenerative disc disease, and three bulging discs affecting the spinal cord. I'm also dealing with severe, widespread chronic pain and hypoxemia that requires supplemental oxygen; we suspect thoracic outlet syndrome but lack imaging evidence for it. In terms of medication, I’m currently on a regimen that includes Nucynta 50 mg taken four times daily, morphine ER 15 mg for overnight pain relief, propranolol 20 mg once daily, cromolyn sodium 5 ml twice daily, Zofran 8 mg as needed, promethazine 12.5 mg as needed for nausea (with half doses used due to heart concerns), dicyclomine 20 mg for gastrointestinal flare-ups as needed, Zyrtec three times daily, and famotidine once daily.
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 9:30:54 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's clear that you're facing a challenging situation with your vascular compressions and eating difficulties, and it’s understandable to feel concerned about your weight and nutritional intake. Here’s a practical approach to help you increase your calorie intake without overwhelming your system.
Main Points:
- Focus on Nutrient-Dense Fluid Calories: Opt for calorie-rich liquids and soft foods to help you meet your dietary needs without large volumes.
- Using High-Calorie Additions: Enhance the calories in the foods and drinks you can tolerate by adding high-calorie ingredients.
- Establish a Structured Eating Plan: Try to create a flexible but consistent schedule for your small meals and snacks.
Explanation:
Your diagnosis of MALS and SMAS can indeed make it difficult to consume calorically dense meals, and it's crucial to find ways to increase your intake to protect your health. Here are some strategies that can help you achieve your caloric goals without causing discomfort.
Actionable Steps:
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Opt for High-Calorie Liquids:
- Smoothies: Blend bananas, avocado, nut butter, Greek yogurt, or full-fat coconut milk with some protein powder or meal replacement shakes. This can help increase calories while keeping it manageable.
- Soups and Broths: Cream-based soups or pureed vegetable soups can be made calorie-dense by adding cream, butter, or cheese.
- Caloric Beverages: In addition to your meal replacement shakes, consider whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk enriched with calories. You can also explore specialized high-calorie drinks, like Ensure Plus or Boost.
-
Incorporate Caloric Enhancements into Foods:
- When you consume anything like yogurt or applesauce, add nuts, seeds, honey, or protein powders to enhance caloric content.
- For sandwiches, use calorie-dense spreads like cream cheese, avocado, or hummus, which can provide more calories in smaller amounts.
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Create a Tiny Meal Schedule:
- Instead of focusing on snacks throughout the day, consider establishing set times for small meals. For example, every 2-3 hours, prepare to consume something, even in very small amounts. This can help minimize the mental load.
- Prepare specific ‘snack packs’ in advance with combinations of high-calorie soft foods (e.g., nut butter with applesauce).
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Consult Nutrition Information:
- Use nutrition apps or consult with a nutritionist (via telehealth if required) to track your intake and ensure you're meeting your caloric needs against your height and weight. While you're awaiting responses from your doctors, some online platforms or resources may help assess nutrient requirements.
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Reassess Snack Choices:
- While unhealthy snacks might give you quick calories, try to prioritize healthier options like high-fat yogurt, nut butters, or trail mixes in small portions.
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Keep a Record of Challenges:
- Consider maintaining a simple journal to track which foods work for you and how you feel after eating them, as this might offer insights and help tailor your choices as you try different things.
Final Thoughts:
Navigating nutritional needs with your medical challenges can be daunting, but small, strategic adjustments can make a significant difference. Please remember to continue following up with your healthcare providers for personalized advice tailored to your medical history and needs. If your symptoms worsen despite these dietary measures or if you experience significant weight loss, seeking immediate clinical support becomes urgent. Take care, and stay strong!
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