NWgirl

I have actually been skating by using belts. I did find a sale at a local plus size store either the week before or the week or two after surgery and was able to get good quality pants for $6 each. I started in a too-tight 22 and had some 20's already- I ended up with 2 pairs of 16 and 3 pairs of 14. I am glad I didn't buy any 18's because I skated by those so quick and didn't even know I was a 16 til I was testing my new clothes to see how long it would be til I could wear them (please say others do this...). I have bought a couple new shirts and even one pretty dress, but only buy cheaper items because I know I won't be in the sizes for too long. I am really trying to get through this without buying much at all.

The gas people talk about is usually internal and not the farting type, not that some do not have increase in this. I did find I had to burp a lot more for the first month after surgery, but now I am back to normal unless I drink something carbonated. As far as food goes, I was actually satisfied for the most part during the post-op phase. The only thing I could say was that I got bored quickly because of the limited choices.

To add on to the basal metabolic rate, as you lose weight, your body uses less calories to function, so you cannot eat as much as you could at a higher rate and expect the same results. I have heard myfitness pal adds in your exercise calories as more calories you can consume in a day (example: you can eat 1200 calories, you exercise and burn 200 calories, and now the app says you can eat 1400 calories). I would personally ignore this addition.

The type of gas you have is not the same that gasX treats- some get relief from GasX, but others do not. Try peppermint tea and see if that eases the gas pains. Also, unlike someone else that posted, burping and farting are not a common part of my life post-band. It just goes to show how we vary. As far as calories consumed, for the time after surgery make sure you are getting enough liquids in because you do not want to get dehydrated. As the gas dissipates and the swelling goes down, you will probably find yourself wanting more food.

1. It has to be included on your actual insurance plan. 2. You have to meet to weight requirements- usually 35-39.9 BMI with two comorbidities or 40+ BMI with no comorbidities. 3. Some plans require a supervised 3 or 6 month diet. Others require 2+ years of documented weight history above the specified BMI and some require a list of all diets (including dates tried, weight lost) you've ever tried. I would personally call the customer service department and ask what the policy states.

What is your pre-op diet?

I was told only tylenol because the other pills have ingredients that may contribute to erosion.

Good luck! Try to get some sleep tonight Don't forget to bring a small travel pillow with you to hold against your stomach for walking and getting in/out of the car.

I would just tell them that you've made your decision and if they're not supportive, then don't talk about it. I'm guessing you've gone to this group for awhile and so I would not sacrifice those group ties.

Can you explain the food troubles you're having so we have a better idea of what you need?

I'm on a mobile device, so can't write a huge post for you. I would really recommend that you start practicing eating habits for the band- no drinking with meals, protein first, and smaller portions. I'd get rid of junk in the house to ease the Desire to eat it. Also, make sure to start drinking 64+ ounces of water.

I am 24 now and was 23 when I got banded. I wish this would have been an option for me sooner

I do not have tricare but also had to have past diet attempts. I typed up a chart with name of diet/type, time of attempt, and approximate weight loss.

Congratulations on being 100% honest with yourself about your current expectations and why you are where you are today. I would recommend getting to a bariatric nutrititionist and working out a food plan. Don't sabotage your band (or abuse it) because the only person you're hurting is you.

Well, you should be taking a multivitamin. Low energy could be low B vitamins, low iron, or thyroid issues (among many other things, I'm sure). Get together with your Dr and explain how you feel.

If I want potato chips, I get the single serve packets. We are not without faults, and I try to avoid putting too much temptation in front of me. Like Jean said, use mindful eating practices when you are eating so that you know you are eating to enjoy every aspect the food and not because it is there. Sometimes you will find you don't enjoy the food at all if you really think about it.

Wow, congrats on your journey thus far! I, too, would have been a little taken aback by such a long trip, but it really is worth it! If you love My Fitness Pal, I would recommend looking into Fitbit. It is this awesome calorie counter/pedometer/activity level/stair flight tracker that is extremely motivating (to me, at least!).

Congratulations! You should be so proud of yourself and your accomplishments!

I also agree with the above folks- I have lost weight successfully many times, but I always gain it back because the diet is not sustainable for long term. I am not against losing weight naturally, as some can be successful at it, but I am against doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results. You know yourself best- is this something you can continue doing for life to lose/maintain?

Is that the online/phone app? I know I used to use it, but couldn't tell you much as I don't remember it anymore. I now use Fitbit and if I'm logging food, LoseIt!

I had about two-three days about a week out from surgery where it seemed like my bowels were "restarting" and I definitely had bathroom issues. Also, since you are on a liquid diet right now, the diarrhea is to be expected.

Most people see their appetite reappear in 2-3 weeks. Mine came back in 3 days. There are a very small amount of patients on here whose appetite never really returns. Unfortunately, most do not experience this.

I had actually started out with O-Purity Multivitamin for band, but the flavor was really too sweet. I now use the Centrum chewable, and even though the flavor is not good, I prefer it over the sweetness of Opurity. I would also only compare to another chewable, preferably a bariatric mix for band, to see how it lines up. My surgeon recommended Centrum chewables and said not to take a pill form Vitamin.

I'm a little confused- you should not expect to get stuck or feel pain from eating if you are eating properly, so you should not use that to gauge if it is working. I don't know what a cup would equate to in ounces, as meat can vary based on how it's prepared, but I would say you need another fill. I have heard that some people are right at the top of their band's capacity before they get good restriction. I would recommend a visit with your Dr to see if they think you need another fill.