brianb

Finally hit the green zone a few weeks ago. It took 5 fills and about 8 CC in my 12 CC band.

I finally understand about getting stuck and some foods just don't work (dry leftover chicken or steak).

I'm so happy. My hunger is virtually gone. The biggest issue I have now is not feeling silly when I go to dinner with my coworkers and am unable to eat more than a few bites. What a change!

The band really freed me. I was constantly thinking about food and feeling guilty all the time about eating. Long workouts to try and fix the mistake at my previous meal. Thank goodness those days are gone for good.

After reading a ton and putting it with my own experiences, here are my thoughts on the band if anyone is interested : )

- I'm skeptical of anyone claiming to get benefit from the band if they are under 5 CC. Certainly believe this happens, but also wonder if some are kind of tricking themselves?

- There absolutely is a green zone and when it happens, hunger nearly disappears. It really is amazing.

- Beware of vomiting. I think it can cause a band to slip.

- Consistent over eating will cause a slip due to pouch dilation. I believe just eating slow and chewing takes care of this. I have little desire to overeat as long as I take it slow.

- Many doctors have no idea why or how it works. Just my opinion based on reading so many contradictory articles and posts. Believe it is a good idea for us all to educate ourselves as much as possible and use our own best judgement.

- The band requires a bit of work and lifestyle changes

Here is more info on the band:

This one goes into details about 'restriction' and how the band isn't supposed to restrict you from eating, but instead create a sense of fullness so you don't want to eat.

http://drsimpson.net...estriction.html

The 8 Golden Rules videos. This is one of the top researches of the band.

http://www.lapbandta...dr-paul-obrien/