Belledata

I was banded April Fools Day this year. I didn't start to feel any restriction until the 4th fill last week. I have a large band (14cc) and now have 7cc. I saw a similar poll for smaller bands and saw the "sweet spot" was not reached until half your band is full. I think I may be there.

I was banded on April Fools Day this year. It took me about 4 fills (had one last week) to get to where there was any restriction felt. I have a large band that holds 14 cc's and I now have 7 cc's. I started with 2cc's and got fills in 1cc increments. I have not been dropping weight very fast, but I think this last fill is enough to do it. Just be honest with your doc and they will increase your fill as needed. It's a process. You have to be patient

I like the Syntrax Nectar Sweets Vanilla Bean mixed with skim milk and about 1/2 cup of cold coffee. Yum yum.

Wow, that is a huge fill. I have a 14cc band and had 2cc after surgery and they gave me 1.5 cc for my first fill for a total of 3.5cc. I was ravenous before the fill. I had to eat every 3 hours....it was horrible. After is better, but still not optimal. I'm trying to get another in a couple of weeks. I did have a restriction for a day or two, but nothing lasted. BTW, Great weight loss! Mel

That is ambitious, but I know how it feels to get to see your favorite team! Take plenty of pain meds and don't expect to be doing any heavy nights on the town. I would keep the surgery date and trade the tickets if you can.

Better late than never....I'm in. Name, real or screen: Melody Age: 45 Weight on May1st: 220 Goal Weight for May 29th: 210 Exercise Goal for May: gym 3x week, 30 min elliptical Dietary Goal for May: Protein and fluids! Personal Goal for May: Stay healthy, but I like the get up earlier of sistersue! Date Banded~April fools day, 2011 Total Weight Loss Since Banding: 20 lbs

Loosing it all is right - water and protein. If no other liquids, choose protein. Go to the powdered stuff or choose foods such at greek yogurt or morningstar farms that is high in protein. I had a friend that had a full bypass a few years ago that told me high protein was the key when loosing, and she has not been wrong yet Just wait....next time you step on the scale you will be 3 lbs lighter. Hang in there mauraclegg! I know you can do it.

Melody: I'm doing good! Lost a little over 20 lbs and I get my first fill this Tuesday. So far I just love the band. I am enjoying the journey.

Hey Melody! I am also Melody! I was just banded on April Fools Day. I also have Tinkerbell stickers on my dirt bike. Small world

Best thing you can do is drink those protein shakes. Some day's they don't taste so good, but it is a quick way to get 23 grams in a hurry. Also try the Greek style yogurt like Chobani where you can get 14 grams of protein in a serving.

Dave, I think you are right on target with my slowing corresponding to going on solid foods. I'm just feel like I have made such a commitment with the surgery, and I want results yesterday. I know they will come but it's hard to wait muaraclegg - you are right, too. I need to drop my calories and get to the gym. I can do the eliptical for a whole 30 minuites without feeling near death. That is a feat for me! I need to adopt the snail attitude...steady and slow. Thanks folks.

I am 4 weeks out and have only lost 17 lbs. I lost those the first three weeks then nothing. I guess that's over 3 lb per week, but the last week of nothing has been hard.

I am 3 weeks out right now. I have dropped 18 lbs, but the last 3 have been really slow. Get a body fat scale (like a Tanita). If I don't loose pounds, I do go down a little in body fat percent. It also helps make sure I'm hydrated enough (measures percent body Water, too) Mel

I have found a challenge for me is to stop when I am no longer hungry. I am so used to clearing my plate....no guilt for the little bit left you just should not eat. I blame my mother

I was banded on 4/1/11. I had a couple of bloody marys this morning for Easter brunch. Mixed them heavy on the V8 and low on the vodka. Ate hardly anything after that. You should be OK, moderation is the key.

I like the Syntrax nectar as well. My favorite is the vanilla bean torte (sold by The Vitamin Shoppe here in the Phoenix area). I'm a little further out (banded 4/1/11), but I love it with a splash of cold coffee. Another favorite is the chocolate truffle mixed with skim milk and sugar free coconut flavored Torani (those coffee flavoring syryps). It's like a mounds bar. Yum. (or as yum as Protein can get). You can get a great deal on the Torani syrups at smart and final. Also, get a Blender Bottle - it will make your life much easier Remember to look for the whey protein and steer clear of the collagen stuff. Good Luck!

I'm scheduled for April fools day, 2011. Scary. I really like the "support me or shut up". I have a friend that does not support me. I was shocked to learn she was so opposed to it. It is a decision I made because I want help, not because I am weak. I have lost plenty of lbs, but they always found their way back with buddies. I am determined to take control and get my healthy life back. I used to roller blade and run....I am so looking forward to being able to do those things again. It takes nerve to change your life and get banded, but I think anyone who had the determination to take this step will be able to make it. I'm still a little scared, but I know I can do it.