I, too, had my jaws wired+additional surgeries due to an athletic injury when I was younger and lived off a liquid diet for over 4 months (and continued to compete in my sport at that!). You CAN eat a balanced diet as just about anything can be liquefied. Since I have the metabolism of a hummingbird I consume a significant amount of calories via shakes on a daily basis. In fact, I begin everyday with a shake that includes milk, fruit, protein powder, lots of steel cut oatmeal, sometimes even high fiber cereal thrown in if needed. As far as protein specifics, I'd suggest obtaining both Whey and Casein if your doc allows, as well as stocking your fridge with no-salt cottage cheese. I can't stand cc by itself but I eat cups of it everyday blended in my shakes (I know, sound gross, but blends & tastes great, especially with flavored protein powder). I say no-salt since regular CC is
loaded with sodium. I'd also suggest adding Blackstrap Molasses (again, if doc allows) as it's loaded with vitamins, particularly iron, which is something that can be challenging to get on a liquid diet. Best of wishes to you and hope all goes well!
