crittlebird

I only eat 2 grams of sugar per entree, which I was instructed to do by my nutritionalist. Everything I eat is sugar free. They make great sf candies, cookies, and ice cream. You still must eat these in moderation, but they are my lifesavers. I found out through this lapband that sugar was my culprit. I don't even miss it anymore. Many sugar free items out there and online, so if you are a chocoholic like I am, you can still be satisfied!!!!! Good luck

Hi all, I had lap band surgery 1 yr ago on April 20th. It is the best thing I have ever done for myself!!!! I lost 11 lbs before surgery and 70 lbs since surgery. I never thought I could do this, but I am. I am so proud of the amount I have lost For those of you just going into this surgery, keep the faith. I know others have lost a lot more than me in a year, but I am truely happy for myself. I feel much better in every way!!!! So, if you are unsure of getting the band, I say DO IT!!! You won't be disappointed!!!!

My doctor has done his own personal research on both the Realize and the Allergan lapbands. In his research of all his patients he has found Allergan to be the best. He said that people with the Allergan tend to lose more in the long run and keep it off better. He himself has the Allergan band. That is what I have.

Check with your surgeon, but I eat sugar free candy a lot. It does have more calories, but with me it is cutting sugar down to 2g per entree that has allowed me to lose. I eat many sugar free products. I always thought eating too much fat was my problem, but to be truthful it is definetly the sugar. I have of course cut way back on my fat, but I think eating a piece or two of sugar free candy daily is not a big issue, at least with me!!!! Good luck!!!

I was banded in April, 2011 and I would do it again in a heartbeat. I have lost a total of 65 llbs, 11 lbs pre-band and 54 after band. There was a month that I did not lose anything and felt discouraged, but when losing weight we all have our ups and downs. Give yourself time to adjust to the band, because you will become in tune with it, trust me. It takes awhile, but you will. In the beginning you are healing and not losing so much, be patient with your body. The band is the best gift I have ever given myself. I wanted to lose slow and steady, and I am. I have difficulty exercising because of balance issues (I had 2 brainstem strokes, which affected my sight and balance). I do walk on my treadmill as much as I can. Do not give up, you will begin to lose on a steady basis, but you will never lose as fast as those who have had a by-pass. Don't compare. Also, as you know the band does not perform magic, you have to do your part too. Good luck on your journey!!!

Hi, I wouldn't think any anesthesia is still in your body, but you never know. I know I have problems with depression and was told to be monitored by doctor after I got the band. I am not sure why but having the band can cause depression in some people or worsen it in those that already are depressed. I have not had any problems, thank God. I think the changes in your body due to the band can have an effect on the chemicals in your brain. Contact your doctor IMMEDIATELY!!!!!! Do not put this off, this is serious and you need to see a doctor!!! I hope and pray that you start to do better. Good luck!!!

Crystal here. Still 227, no weight loss this week

Hi, Crystal here. I lost 1 lb on Dec. 8th. New weight 227 lbs!!!

I also had surgery in April, the 20th. I have lost 63 lbs altogether, 11 lbs before surgery. So, since surgery I have lost 52 lbs. Starting weight 280 (at time of banding). I had a plateau that lasted 1 month, not weight loss. I am unable to exercise much because of balance issues and fatigue. I had 2 strokes in 2007 that left me with balance and eyesight problems and fatigue. I exercise when I can. I use the treadmill because I can hang on when I walk. I have gone from a tight 28 to a loose 24 size pants. I am very proud of my progress and you should be also. It takes time and patience. Be proud of yourself and keep up the good work!!!!

Name, real or screen~Crystal Age~53 Weight on December 1st~228 Goal weight for December 29th~224 Dietary goal for December~Eat healthy Exercise goal for December~Walk as much as I can Personal goal for December~Remain calm and peaceful and enjoy Date banded~04/20/11 Total weight loss since banding/pre op diet~63 lbs, 11 lbs before surgery 52 lbs since surgery One thing that has improved with your health since banding~ I just feel better all over

I also have cut out almost all sugar. I am allowed 2 grams per entree (directions given by nutritionist). I stick to it religously. I have noticed things tasting sweeter than before. I have cut down the amount of splenda in my hot tea. Isn't it great that foods that have a lot of sugar look unappetizing!!! I love it!!!

Crystal here, I weigh 231 today. Lost 3 lbs for the challenge. This was great, thanks!!!!

Hi, Crystal here. Weight on Nov. 8 same, 234