MINI-Me

Thanks everyone. I was feeling pretty sorry for myself last night. Today is a new day & I sincerely appreciate everyone's comments and encouragement - YOU ROCK!

It's not "creative", but I enjoyed SF Jell-O. I bought a variety pack and found the taste to be yummy.

Congratulations!!!! Yes, you sound normal. Just sip as much as you can - you need the liquids so that you don't dehydrate. Were you on IVs during your stay? What did your surgeon say about your Fluid intake? Jus keep poking around on here. If you can't find answers to your questions, just ask!

What is zero?

Just talk with Dr. L and Melanie - the nutritionist. They will take good care of you.

I attend a VSG support group the 3rd Tuesday of each month in the cafeteria at Steven's Hospital. We meet at 7:00 - you should join us. Several of Dr. L's patients attend.

I did not have surgery with him due to price, but have heard LOTS of great feedback about him and Dr. Billings.

Congrats ... Sounds like you are right on track. Sorry about the nausea.

I promise it will get better. Those first few weeks, it's almost impossible to get in the Protein. I gagged on everything as well. EVERYONE's taste are different. I hated almost everything people suggested. What finally worked for me was adding Any whey powder (1/2 scoop) to Carbmaster yogurt (21 g of protein) and making unjury chicken Soup. The soup is a bit salty tasting, but for some that appealed to me. Good luck. Right now, focus on your hydration and getting in what you can for protein. Try not to stress. "Real" food is coming very soon.

You CAN and WILL do this. Your stomach will not let you eat too much at one sitting. I used to be a MAJOR volume eater & this tool is like a miracle. One or two bites of my "craving" and I am satisfied. I didn't believe it before surgery & was sure I was going to be the one that this failed for. Well, guess what? It really does work!!!!! Just follow your plan. If you have questions or concerns, talk to your doctor first & always come out here for support!

Welcome! I was considered a lightweight since my BMI was 33, but was considered eligible due to my family history of morbid obesity. I am 7 weeks out, but I firmly believe this has added years to my life!

It really depends on the individual ... I've heard stats from 45% to 80% of excess weight. My surgeon considers it a success to get you out of the obese category. I consider it a success to get in the normal category. But, my goal is to be mid-normal range. As I get closer, we'll see what I really end up at.

I had surgery 1/27 & have lost 29.2 pounds as of this morning - 7 weeks out. I wanted that 0.8 gone, but I guess I can't be TOO greedy! My energy levels are getting back to normal & life is feeling pretty good right now. I did do a post yesterday about my calories creeping closer to 800 (range is 600-800), but I think I'm probably overanalyzing it. Pre-Surgery, I wouldn't dream of complaining about being at 800 calories per day. LOL

You are doing awesome. Keep up the great work!

I probably averaged that my first two weeks or so. I didn't concentrate as much on calorie sources as I did hydration. Have you tried hot beverages like decaf tea or broth? They seemed to go down easier for me than cold liquids. As far as the doctor office - if you don't think she's listening, ask for someone else that will.

If you have a Kroger or Fred Meyer near you, I would suggest trying some of the CarbMaster Yogurt. It's a great source of protein/low carbs and very filling (if you add 1/2 scoop of unflavored Protein powder, you get even more protein and no change in taste). This is hard time, but follow your instructions. They were written to help you heal and maximize your weightloss. As noted above refried Beans were AWESOME when I got to the puree stage. Also, try pureed chili and Campbell's Beef Vegetable - they are higher in carbs, but the little you eat shouldn't be a problem. They have a lot of flavor and can satisfy that need to "eat" real food. Best of luck!

Glad to hear you are doing well ... those first few days are not much fun at all. The liquids will get easier. Just sipp whenever you can! (Glad to know your husband was supportive.)

I love this! What a great reminder for all of us when the dreaded "stall(s)" happen.:001_tongue:

Congratulations!

Congratulations. You are going to love the changes in your life!

WOW! That is a lot. Every surgeon is different, but most recommend 60-80 grams per day (maximum I've heard is 100). Did your surgeon say why such a high recommendation?

I've never had a band, but know 3 individuals who have. They've not met goal in the 3+ years of having the band. Most importantly, they have had complications - swollen esophogus, throwing up, unable to eat certain foods, etc. Knowing that, I looked into other options and found the Sleeve. It appealed to me due to most of the reasons DeeDee mentioned. For experiences of ex-banders, look up posts/blogs by Tiffykins, youknowit, and FabBy50. Best of luck on making your decision.

Stacy160 is right. After the healing process, just about anything in moderation. Watching calories and carbs while you are loosing helps you stay on target and lose that much faster. Any other questions, just ask!

I am so sorry for you loss. We have a one year old miniature dachshund and I know how quickly they can get into your heart.