NWgirl

I would really hesitate to think you've slipped since surgery was not too long ago, but you do never know. I wouldn't think you'd be tight enough or overeating. I would also consider gall bladder issues, but like you said, consult with the Dr I hope all is well.

Most post-op diets follow the below schedule: Week one-two: Full liquids (some surgeon's require Clear Liquids for one week or part of one week). Full liquids for me included low-fat yogurt without any chunks of fruit or seeds, broths, Lipton cup of Soup cream of chicken, Protein drinks, milk, 100% fruit juice diluted 50%. Week Three: pureed foods- anything you can blend to the consistency of baby food. Still no foods with chunks and no solids. Week Four: Mushies- soft foods. eggs, oatmeal, grits, tuna salad. Week Five +: Slowly start adding normal foods to diet, paying attention to feeling satisfied. Keep in mind that the diet is to make sure your band settles properly. The band is sutured in at the top of the stomach and so the diet is used to prevent the stomach from churning (something it does when you eat solid foods). For the safety of your band and future health, you want to follow your post-op guidelines to a T so you don't cause any issues out of the gate.

Start out with some low-intensity exercise, like walking or swimming. As you feel more comfortable, add more time or distance in. You could also buy an exercise DVD designed for larger people (I'm thinking Biggest Loser or Extreme Weight Loss makeover)- these usually have shorter timed workouts. Whatever you do, try to find something you enjoy. I would also recommend a set of 2lb hand weights that you can use if you are sitting.

I would recommend having anti-nausea meds on hand if you do get a flu or stomach virus. It's best to not throw up, as it can displace the band.

I will just say good luck on your journey to better health! Sounds like you've had a bumpy ride, so I'm glad you are still giving it a shot!

The only problem I've heard with gummy vitamins is that they can be lacking in nutritional bulk like regular vitamins do. I use Centrum Chewables and a gummy B Complex by Viatfusion. Just check with your surgeon about the quantity you should take, as you may require more.

What is your definition of restriction and full?

I have anthem bcbs through kroger and was approved in two weeks.

I have hypEr thyroidism, not hypO thyroidism. Hyper is low levels, which can effect weight loss. People with hypo have high levels, which is usually found in skinnier folks- high levels can cause someone to be thin. There are people who go between both types and there are bigger folks that have hypO thyroid conditions. I am on synthroid for mine and get checked periodically.

I really recommend getting a small travel pillow or a mini Pillowpet to hold against your tummy after surgery! Some say peppermint tea helps with gas pains as well.

I have a fitbit too and LOVE it! I will send you a request EDIT: haha I guess I am already your friend on Fitbit! If anyone would like to add me, my link is in my signature bar

I still have pictures on facebook that I am tagged in and look absolutely disgusting. The thing is, that was me then and I was with the people I loved, so it couldn't all be terrible. I seem to have had this false sense of size, thinking I looked so much better than I did! I still have 60lbs to go til I'm where I want to be, but I am so much more comftorable in my body now!

I would actually advise that you eat when hungry and not at scheduled times. I know if you have a family eating time or a scheduled break, this can be harder than not. I try to only eat a real meal when I feel hungry and try to stay away from snacks. I also make sure each meal is centered around a protein dense food.

I physically cannot drink while eating or else I feel miserable.

I'd keep it and talk to your Dr about what he/she recommends. I would say you are still eating too much so I personally would get another fill. Also remember full vs satisfied are two different things. You want to feel satisfied off less than 1 cup, not full.

I was told not to submerge in water for two to three weeks, including bathing.

Mine seemed to go away within the first few weeks. I know some people can feel the port more than others. Have you been exercising? Maybe your abdominal wall is sore and you are feeling everything a wee bit more?

When you say feel, do you mean painfully or you are aware it is there?

I am crossing my fingers for you! Sometimes insurance companies use some interesting calculations to get your BMI. Hoping yours is just lagging behind.

Congrats on such a surprise! I wanna know where you're getting banded, if you'll be to goal five days later

I am also curious if you switched to the sleeve after only three or four months? Peculiar. Good luck with your journey, we each must find our own way

Here is a link of before/after photos: http://www.lapbandtalk.com/topic/4543-before-and-after-lap-band-surgery-pictures-only/page__st__2240__p__1803356__hl__before%20and%20after#entry1803356 Because you are just coming back to the diet, start paying attention to when your body is really, physically hungry. I would recommend eating only when hungry and at the same time, paying very close attention and listening to when your body is satisfied and not full. Take it one day at a time and it will come

gallbladder possibly? I would recommend seeing your surgeon to rule out what it could be.

Research insurance companies, but it seems most have a year wait period until they will treat a pre-existing condition (obesity). There are some good deals around the US for fairly cheap that you may want to look into as well.