DELETE THIS ACCOUNT!

I agree, measure your food so you run less of a risk of accidentally over eating. When you pause between bites, ask yourself "am I still hungry?" And if the answer is no you're done. Remember, when eating with the band eat until you're satisfied not full.

I don't count carbs. I make sure to get in at least 60g of Protein daily, limit fat to 20-25%, and stick to 1200 calories or less but I don't limit carbs. I just make sure the carbs I'm eating are healthy ones. For instance, if the bread/pasta/rice is white, says the word "enriched" or "bleached" I don't buy it. I buy whole grain/whole wheat breads and Pasta and use brown rice. It's worked very well for me.

I wish there was a "love" button for this. Another GREAT article, Jean!!!!

I'm so glad it's helped. I usually carb cycle for 2 weeks when I hit a plateau and it's enough to get my metabolism moving again steadily. It's so weird but for some reason, the whole "shocking" your metabolism does seem to work.

I just had it done about 4 weeks ago, but mine was a lot more involved. I had about 12 pounds of excess skin removed/tummy tuck/massive hernia repair combination. I won't lie, it was definitely painful. The first couple of days home from the hospital I definitely had a couple "oh gawd what have I done to myself?" moments. But around day 10, the pain subsided considerably and I was like "oh hey I look kinda awesome!" I actually posted my before and after pics here if you'd like to see them. It's pretty dramatic: http://www.lapbandtalk.com/topic/169905-tummy-tuck-before-after-pics/ I'm definitely thrilled with my results and think it was a very good decision. I'm just dealing with some other physical issues from the surgery that aren't common. I think if you're only having skin removal the recovery will be a lot easier and quicker.

I don't see why they'd unfill you for a colonoscopy. It has nothing to do with your stomach and it's a very minor procedure. Heck, I didn't even have mine unfilled for gallbladder removal or a tummy tuck/hernia repair/skin removal.

You'll have to ask your doctor. They all have different rules and yours may have a specific reason for having you wear it.

A slider food is a food we can eat like we don't have a band- it slides right through so you can eat tons without any problems. Ice cream and frozen yogurt are both major sliders.

I definitely have those moments. I see my family going to town a big, fatty bowl of pasta or mowing a giant cheeseburger and I have these moments of "ugh I wish I could just have an hour to eat normal". ...but then I remember that's how I got to over 400 pounds... and suddenly that dripping burger doesn't look so appetizing anymore. You're doing so great!

Yes, but be careful because not only is it very high in calories (usually) but it's also a slider food. I'd definitely limit your portions and be sure to count the calories.

I follow the 90/10 rule: 90% of the time I am very strict and 10% of the time I eat whatever I want (in band sized portions). One important note- you say you can "eat whatever you want". You have to remember that the band isn't supposed to physically stop you from eating anything. In fact, most of us can eat whatever we want even with adequate Fluid in the band. So, it's a good idea to start getting used to controlling what and how much you eat. Best wishes.

Oh goodness, I'm so sorry. Did it slip? If so, do you know what caused it?

It's often very hard to get in enough fluids right after surgery. Because you're on liquids right now, you don't have to wait to drink. You're pretty much drinking everything anyway. When I was early on, I kept some Water with me so I could sip constantly. As far as the gas pain, I'm going to assume you mean from the surgery itself. During the surgery they pump your abdominal cavity full of air to expand it and make it easier for them to move around. This is are isn't in your digestive tract so gas meds won't help it. Walking is the best way to help your body reabsorb it faster. Some people find a heating pad can help ease the discomfort, too. Hang in there!

I know this will sound weird, but it does sound like you may have gotten a little dehydrated. Your body uses a lot more Fluid when you're healing so you need to be sipping Water almost constantly right now. As far as nausea and vomiting, it's a good thing you're calling your doctor on Tuesday. In the meantime they do make OTC anti-nausea meds in liquid form. You can find it at most pharmacies and it can help. Plus, your surgery was just 5 days ago. I'm sure your body is still very weak and you still need a lot of rest. Listen to your body- if you need to sit, then sit. If you need to sleep, then sleep. It'll probably be a good 4 weeks (maybe even 6 weeks) before you're fully back to your normal energy levels again,

Please, please don't take this wrong- but your father sounds like a complete @sshole!! I can't believe a father could be so cruel and heartless!! I know it's hard but don't let his ignorance get you down or discourage you. You're doing this for you not him. Let him wallow in his own stupidity. You're losing, how fast or slow is irrelevant. All that matters is that you ARE losing and you will be healthier for it. Don't be afraid to stand up for yourself, either. Tell him what an @ss he's being and that you're not going to tolerate it!

Is it possible it's too tight?

" In the study, 25% of the patients had their band systems removed, two-thirds of which were following adverse events. Esophageal dilatation or dysmotility (poor esophageal function) occurred in 11% of patients" Only 2/3 of that 25% had it removed after adverse events. 11% of those were Esophageal dilatation, aka overeating and stretching out the pouch or bands too tight- patients fault not band's fault. So, 2/3 of 25% is 16%. 16% less the 11% who caused it themselves leaves 5%. Ironically, 5% is the exact percentage reported as band failures. http://www.futurity.org/health-medicine/weight-stays-off-long-after-lap-band-surgery/

Ironically, my doctor is rather conservative when it comes to all his practices with the band, but he never told me I couldn't use a straw after I got off the post op diet. I actually use one often because it keeps me from "gulping" down fluids. I've never experienced a problem. But that's just my experience with it. I've heard some do get too much air using straws.

How about you actually produce the said study you claim says there is a 25% removal rate? Otherwise it's just more spewing false scare tactics.

Honestly? I don't care. If someone is that juvenile and insecure, that's their problem not mine. Jealousy is an ugly disease, I only hope the person in question gets better soon But... I still think it's better to deal with issues one on one like adults. It's too bad your PM fell on deaf ears. At least you tried.

Talk to your doctor to be sure. Most are ok with it as long as your incisions are totally healed, but you'll want to get his clearance first because you don't want to risk an infection.