jbbemom

I was just banded August 2nd, and while I hear the struggles you are saying you are having, I can't help but ask if you are tracking what you are taking in. I was given the instructions to write down everything I eat...I use an app on my android phone that can also track my weight and exercise. I use a different app to track my Protein intake. The protein intake is so important so you lose fat and not muscle mass. It is also more filling. I was given instructions to eat my protein first (even though I'm on the heavier liquid portion of the beginning diet). I have several things like applesauce that I could grab and eat, but it has no protein and while it is no added sugar, it is still calories that add to my day and if I don't burn them off...they become added weight. I'm not to the working out portion of the program yet, but after my appointment on the 24th, I hope my surgeon tells me I can exercise. I will use our treadmill to walk on as exercise until I build up my endurance and then I will add some light weight work to help build my muscle. As far as getting motivated...it helps to have someone to discuss it with whether or not they are going through it too. Yes, the "health" food can be expensive, but if you are not continuing to buy the other types of food too, it should even out. Even though we have a college aged daughter living at home, we continue to buy the food that is good for us (my husband had the lapband done the same day I did). She is getting in better shape by eating healthier, too. She is in training while playing soccer so she is eating food to fuel her body. My take on having such a dramatic procedure done (after researching everything to do with it) was to begin to look at food in a different way. It isn't a social outlet, it isn't for fun, it isn't because it tastes good...like society would have us believe by the commercials we are inundated with on a daily basis. Food is to fuel our bodies so our bodies will have what they need to survive. They need protein, they need veggies, they need Vitamins...I used to think mine NEEDED powdered sugar donuts, but I was wrong! It as much a mental process as it is a physical process. We have to retrain our brains that food is fuel. Also, staying hydrated is as important and the food you eat. I'm not completely there, but I think I'm in the right place mentally. It's not an easy place to get or to stay...you just have to be mentally stronger than your will to eat the things you used to eat. Best of luck to you in your endeavor to lose weight! Hugs!

My husband and I were just banded on August 2, 2011. This is great information for newly banded patients...and those who need a review! I'm glad I found it! Thanks and great job on your weight loss Wendell!

I am a 45 year old female very happily married to my best friend and husband for 26 years! We have two sons who are married, a daughter in college and one angle boy watching over us. I am a professional photographer and absolutely LOVE the creative outlet it brings. I work from home...I would love to have a studio some day! I shoot on location and have a portable studio for indoor shots. My husband and I were banded on the same day - August 2nd. We decided to begin this journey together because who better to understand and support than your best friend going through it at the same time!?! I've written my banding story on my profile if anyone is interested. I look forward to being active on the Lap Band Talk Forum as a place to ask questions and support others. Glad to meet you!

Bless your heart! How sad that the doctor messed up your surgery, and then to lose your friend on the ride home...and to witness it. I can't imagine. My heart aches for your experiences but I do agree with others: Guilt will not bring your friend back, nor will it make you healthy. I'm sure she is with you in spirit and would support your decision to try again. You and your family have to decide what is right for you. If you have failed, as we all have, at losing significant weight on your own and need the weight loss for a long and healthy life, then you owe it to your family to try again. I agree that you need to find a Center of Excellence. They not only have the best surgeons, but their nursing staff is trained for the bariatric patient's special needs. I wish you many blessings regardless of what you decide to do. Find your happiness again and LIVE!