DELETE THIS ACCOUNT!

I think everyone is different with different needs. I personally don't deprive myself of anything except carbonation. Otherwise, I eat what I want just in bandster portions. I believe in moderation not deprivation. I don't limit carbs but I do try to make sure the ones I eat are healthy. I do keep my fat intake under 25% and eat at least 60g of Protein a day. I track my calories religiously. Again this is strictly me, but I could never be successful on a diet as limiting as the one you're on. I got my band to change my lifestyle not deprive myself of the things I enjoy.

This isn't normal and likely isn't even Lap Band related. You need to get into your primary care doctor ASAP.

Unfortunately the gas pain you're feeling isn't in your digestive system so Gas-X won't work. It's in your actual abdominal cavity so the only thing that helps is walking so your body can re-absorb it faster. Some people find a heating pad helps soothe it too. As far as Boost, I wouldn't recommend it at all. Boost is a lot of calories and not nearly enough Protein. I would call your doctor's office and see if they have an alternative to Isopure that you can use.

The Green Zone is when you have adequate Fluid in your band so your hunger is controlled yet you can still eat healthy meals without a problem. I'm so sorry you're going through all this. I think it's really important you educate yourself on your band. Go see and talk to your doctor and also go see your nutritionist. It's crucial for you to be successful with your band.

Reflux is not normal with the band, in fact it can be a red flag of being too tight or even a slip. I would go back to your doctor ASAP.

Ugh that is ridiculous! I would ask if there is any other co-morbidities they will consider, like high blood pressure, that you might meet. I would also ask them how long you have to sustain a 40 BMI before they'll cover it. I know this sucks but then at least you can be careful to maintain your current weight long enough for them to cover it. I'll cross my fingers!

What is your current BMI? How many pounds are you from being at 40?

Are you physically hungry or actually eating a lot of food? You have to remember the band isn't supposed to physically stop you from eating anything nor is it supposed to control your portions. That will always be your job and why it's important to stick to band sized portions. The band is supposed to allow you to be satisfied on less food for longer periods of time, so if you're hungry too often it's entirely possible you still need another small fill. Best wishes

Medicare. I exceed their requirements. It seems most require a weight loss of 100 pounds, documented skin rashes, and/or for the tummy apron to hang below the pubic line. Of course there are variations but those are the most common requirements

That is so awesome!! Congratulations!! I hope you'll stay here on the forums with us and let us know how your journey goes!

There is absolutely nothing wrong with a glass of wine, especially when you're counting the calories. I am a very firm believer that to be successful with any weight loss it has to be about moderation not deprivation. You are simply enjoying what you love in moderation.

Sounds like you have either an infection or a virus. Follow up with your doctor. It doesn't sound band related.

You'll have to ask your doctor. They should've told you a very specific diet plan to follow. I would give their office a call and ask.

I can only speak for myself, but because I've lost over 200 pounds and my tummy apron is so big it interferes with my daily activity. Plus, I have some rather large hernias that need to be fixed so my doctor is doing it all at once. My doc says with the amount of weight I still have to lose, as long as I work to keep my tummy tone it will shrink right along with me.

Wise words! You're going to do beautifully on your band journey

Definitely! I'm scared sh*tless! LOL!

I agree, this person is a ticking time bomb for a slip.

I had my pics taken on Monday and I'm scheduled for surgery on May 1st. So... I am assuming they're not anticipating any approval problems between now and then.

You're doing wonderful! Congrats!

In order to gain then you would have to be eating some really high calorie mushy food. It's possible but it's not likely.

TMF gave you great info. The only thing I would add is that you should have your thyroid and medications for it double checked before getting the Lap Band. If your thyoid is out of whack and slowing your metabolism then the band won't help. It's really important to get your medical issues under control first.

What size is your band? It's not common but it's possible for your band too tight even empty. Did you have acid reflux before getting your band?

While you're on the pre-op diet and the post op diet, it's really important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly. But once you're past all that and back to normal food, don't be afraid to figure out what works best specifically for you and your body. We're all different with different needs and sometimes trial and error is the only way to find out what works and what doesn't.

Everyone is different and has different needs, but I don't do the whole low carb thing. I make sure I stay within my daily calorie allowance and get at least 60g of Protein in a day but I don't restrict carbs. I just try to make the carbs I do eat healthy ones. The key is to figure out what works best for you and your metabolism. I've lost 200 pounds without restricting carbs so obviously I lose well while eating carbs. Best wishes.