JScooney

I have been going every four weeks for a fill. My doctor told me that the first few fills will go easy because we aren't close to "getting the fit" in the perfect zone. I am losing weight, so there isn't much rush either. I've been explained that the less fill you take to achieve restriction is like, "money in the bank." The band will retain its future ability to put more restriction if need be. Between exercise and lots of protein I am making my goals. The band's help to get off 30 pounds really helped me be able to work out and back pain has gone to almost zero. Next fill Jan. 18th, my third fill since 10-20-11 surgery.

I take two Flintstone vitamins daily. No science to support my choice, but with all the protein shakes (EAS CarbControl and Muscle Milk) I feel pretty balanced. When I would diet (pre-band) I'd get canker sores. But, I haven't gotten any since I've been taking my Flintstones. And, I do feel like I am eating a pretty rounded diet. Fish, chicken, veggies, and very little carbs (in simple form). I like the protein bars too. Again, I am not very well schooled on vitamins. You very well might be pleasantly surprised on just how balanced you can get with the band. Those shakes have a lot in them.

The first couple of fills will not do a whole lot of restriction. The only way to get results, from my experience, is will power during the first few fills. I was banded on 10/20/11. Had fill 11/23, and 12/20. Next fill 1/18/12. The fills do keep me from going crazy like I used to (like five servings at a Chinese buffet). Now, a western omelette with half the hash browns fill me up for four hours. I used to be able to eat the toast and hash browns and maybe a side of biscuit and gravy. Those days are over. The fill process is painless. Less prick than a needle shot I'd say. Very dull area of the body. The skill of the doctor matters. Friend had to go to ER and said other doctors take several attempts to hit the spot. The benefit of the first two visits have been nutrition counseling and accountability. It helps to have the doctor tracking my efforts. One thing I've learned is the band is not magic bullet! You gotta do the work! Ice cream, chips, chocolate, shakes, nuts, and a million other horrible foods will go right down!!! The good stuff like boiled eggs, chicken and turkey will slow you down. And then once your body gets comfortable on 1700 calories, your going to have to work out to get a measurable weight loss month to month.

I miss going to the gym. When I worked out four days a week at Powerhouse I was able to stay between 250 and 275. Once I stopped working out I peaked at 315. It might have been the extra time on my hands and less calories burned. Once I got out of shape it was super hard to get back into the routine. I will seriously think about the gym once I get to 280. There is a Planet Fitness under construction by me so I am holding out until I can look at that. The YMCA did not appeal to me since the weights section was/is too small. Its good for bringing the whole family for a half day thing, but an hour work out four days a week is rough given the set up there. For now, its walking the dog and using a set of dumbbells and pushups. I do lots of lunges too. Don't want to lose muscle tone and strength. Gyms to me are great outlets. Make sure you check them out at several times of day. Look in all the corners to see if its clean. The manners of the other members and the presence of a janitor are so important. Price matters too. I like the one year paid in full type deals because your not tied in for a checkbook withdrawal or credit card. Once you join, I do believe the gym membership is cheaper than a Starbucks coffee habit.

I was told a large band was used but I do not know the cc specifications as of yet. When I go in for my first fill in late November I am sure the discussion will come up. My doctor told me I would take more fills due to the larger size being used. The two close people to me who had the surgery also did not get the large band. Accordingly, I should expect a couple more fills to get to the right spot with the band. Today is Monday. Had surgery last Thursday: no hunger and have had four Protein shakes a day without any issues. I have drank as much Water as I want, which is not a whole lot. About six cups a day. coffee is fine. I have cut back on the powder creamer though just to improve my habits. Decaff now with everything. No painkillers necessary. Walking just fine! Forcing myself to heal properly after reading the board. I hope my adjustment to band life is a little more gradual since the band is big; I am optimistic since my recovery has been so trouble free. I am eating really slow to be safe.