**IP~LB**

Hello, I am 5 weeks out today, so we are just a few days apart. When I started working out about 2 weeks ago my weight loss has been going much slower also. It is because I am doing weights and transforming fat into muscle. Muscle is more dense than fat, but it takes up less space. Also, are you using an app or program to monitor your calories? I find that helps me. I was shocked yesterday when I had a 4 oz piece of meatloaf, it was 456 calories! As far as biggest loser they work out at least 3 hours a day and in a unrealistic living situation. When they weigh in it actually isn't every week, sometimes is 10-14 days later. The show portrays it as every week but in isn't. We can't compare ourselves to that. I did this last year when I watching it and someone told me exactly what I just told you and I felt better. My doctor said I should lose between 6-8 per month and not to expect anything else. So even though I only lost a pound last week my clothes fit me better and my energy level is on the increase. I can't believe the vast amounts of energy I have now. Are you feeling this also? I wish I could keep losing 30 pounds a month.......but I will lose it. Positivity and perseverance is the key. GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR JOURNEY, 2013 will be OUR YEAR!!!!! Take care of yourself, because you are worth it!

lol, Funny you said this. I got two e-mails from banders who had their surgery the same day as mine and they see my weight loss and they PM me asking me how I am losing so much more weight then them, etc....I answered both in detail and not one replied back. I was like hmmmmm too!!! I agree with Maddy, people don't always like what we say. For example, last night in chat I thought someone was rude by saying to me "I don't really want to hear it from a newbie" well this newbie (me) is doing really well and if my positivity is upsetting you because I am a newbie, then don't post in chat room and ask people's opinions if you don't want to hear it. I didn't respond to them in chat, I just took the high road and ignored the comment. I wanted to comment, but I could see this person is really struggling and I didn't want to add to her negativity. Susan you and many others are a huge inspiration to us and I for one appreciate your feedback, PM replies and your posts SO KEEP THEM COMING, lol. On a side note, I am definitely going to look you up while I am visiting my friends and family in Tampa and take you to a CrossFit class!! Have a great day!!

Here is the one I use. It does much more than weigh your food, read the item description http://www.walmart.com/ip/11090896?adid=22222222227000052059&wmlspartner=wlpa&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=&wl3=21486607510&wl4=&wl5=pla&veh=sem

Wow all interesting jobs!! Great post in forum. I am a chiropractor. I sold my practice (which consumed me night and day owning a business) to get in shape and finally lose weight. My excuse (one of many of them) was I didn't have "time" to work out and eat healthy. So I did something about that! I am currently working for a chiropractor 14 hours a week for some income. I LOVE WORKING for someone else, the stress of owning your own business is horrible! I had my surgery Dec 4 and down 34 pounds I am so pleased and I started working out again! My days are very flexible so it gives me time to cook and workout. I do spend time on here chatting, texting and emailing with others about our surgeries, sharing experiences, recipes and our progress. This is my plan for one year to 18 months until I get to goal weight and at that point I will decide what I want to do with the rest of my life!! I know one thing for sure I am sure as hell going to enjoy it!! Good luck to all of you!! I love hearing all your stories, a lot of them so inspiring!! Irene

That is exactly the reason only 3 people know. I don't want to be judged. I am 44 and wish I had it done at 25 years old. This is your journey in life, no one elses. I congratulate you in taking a huge step for yourself. I been banded one month today and down 34 pounds, I couldn't be happier. Let us know how it goes.

Hey there and Happy New Year!! I found this site for a friend who doens't care for me. It has all kinds of great recipes with Protein. Good Luck with your venture!! http://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/meal-ideas/6-high-protein-vegan-meal-ideas

Yes P90x is great if you can't get to a crossfit gym! It is the same premise, muscle confusion. Good luck with it, being banded and p90x will truly change your life FASTER!!! I just started back to crossfit last week and I am thrilled.

CrossFit is a strength and conditioning brand. CrossFit combines weightlifting, sprinting, and gymnastics. They have them all over the country now. Probably one right down the street from where you live. I have 8 of them within a 10 mile radius. It is such a supportive place to go for weight loss. www.crossfit.com Try it! You will love it!

I am Paleo and a CrossFitter also!..I was so excited to see this thread. I was 317 and started Paleo and helped me lose some weight before my surgery. My surgery was Dec 4 and I have lost 32.5 pounds from it and now I entered a crossfit competition Feb 17 2013!!

Those pictures are AWESOME!!! Absolutely awesome!!! Very very happy for you!!!

Yes definitely can. I do crossfit and it is very very strenous. My doctor after 3 weeks of having the surgery said I can go for it. I am also going to Universal Studies on January 19 and he said after chuckling, lol it was just fine. How is it going for you? Happy New Year!!

Hi, I was banded Dec 4. I am in the east coast of Florida in Jupiter area.. GOOD LUCK TO YOU!!!!!

Yes, huge words of wisom. Follow your doctors orders to the T, don't veer off, don't listen to others, ONLY YOUR DOCTOR and you will be awesome. The first 4-6 weeks is imperative to healing, so eat only as directed!! This site is great for information, actually a lot of excellent recommendations from fellow banders, but your doctor trumps every time!!!! I was banded Dec 4, I am down 31 pounds......I am very pleased. I started mushies when I was supposed to, I started solids as I was supposed to, I DID NOT take any short cuts and start a day early etc. Good Luck in your banding....its an entire new life for us 2013 is our time to shine!!! Let us know how it goes. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Geez I know how you are feeling. I was the "party girl" drinking and eating, always going out and now since Dec 1 pre-op diet I have been staying home a lot. Most of my friends don't get it and are upset with me, but you know what I don't care because in one year I will be down to my goal weight. As far as your husband goes maybe he will try to start eating healthier with you and be more supportive. I am sure in the back of his mind he is like omg she is going to lose all this weight and take off on me, and it does happen. My friend had gastric bypass two years ago and her husband is constantly spying on her, texting her, questioning her etc. Maybe having a heart to heart with him with help? Is he receptive to talks? Good luck with YOUR WEIGHT LOSS. Happy New Year!!!

Congratulations!!! It is an amazing feeling!!! I think I actually enjoy food more (and appreciate it more) and actually taste it, not inhale it!! Good luck with the rest of your weight loss!! HAPPY NEW YEAR

Yeah and congrats!!!! Great feeling going to mushies!! I went to solids Christmas Day!! Best food I have ever eaten LOL. Keep up your fantastic weight loss!!!! 2013 is ouR YEAR TO SHINE!!

Sorry to hear what happened. I wish you all the luck in the world. 2013 is YOUR YEAR!!!! GOOD LUCK!

Congratulations to you both!! I was banded Dec 4 best thing I have ever done. Down 30 pounds Feel better already! Congrats on your wedding......that's great to be thin while all those people taking pictures of you!!

Congrats!! A great way to start of your NEW YEAR!!

That is awesome when others notice our accomplishments and hard work! Congratulations!!

Hope everything clears up soon!!!! Good Luck!