Nina_S

I have about 18 more days - I will be banded on June 5th. I wish you the best! Nina

OMG! Trigger word >>>>> COSTCO :clap2:! Costco is filled with wonderful things! I usually get the raw almonds & walnuts (great source of Omega-3 fatty acids), they have great egg white quiches (near the cold packaged foods) with artichokes & spinach, they have wide selection on salt-free seasoning blends, the ahi tuna and salmon are convenient - they are bagged and individual sealed for freshness. You can also get organic, baby asparagus for the frozen food area too. In the bakery, you can get a granola mix that they prepare in the store filled with nuts, cranberries, flax seeds, oatmeal, etc. Yes, you have to stay away from that chocolate layer cake :phanvan . Costco is limitless when it comes to great things period! I can solicited for suggestions in other departments as well . BTW, welcome Toni! Who will be doing your surgery? Nina

Gina, Stay faithful!! You have to know that all your hard work and dedication will pay off. I am sure things will take a turn. Nina

Lisa - I am wondering the same thing. I start my liquids on next Tues (May 22) and I am already having thoughts of missing food. I told my daughter that I won't be able to cook and she gasped. Accountability - I have done really well this week, aside from Mother's Day, it was a free day for me. Sticking to my spin classes and burning 600 cals on the elliptical on the other days. Eating has been clean as well, lots of protein, low carbs... I don't want the shakes :huytsao. Nina

Hi Bikinigoal! I reccomend Dr. John Long. I have never had "weight loss" surgery done by him but I did have breast reduction more than 14 years and he did a wonderful job. Also, one of the ladies here has had "weight loss" surgery with Dr. Long and she had great reviews... http://www.lapbandtalk.com/cosmetic-reconstructive-surgery/28204-dr-john-long-houston.html Dr. John Long 1200 Binz Street; Suite 1275 Ph: 713-522-5664 Nina

I haven't been banded yet but I do some research on the hair loss and some information that I found suggested taking Biotin, zinc, Vitamin A & C, a complex for hair, skin & nails (Nutrilite) & Minoxidil (X-tra strength) for men. From what I have read the hair loss does stop and you begin to regrow your hair. Nina

Accountability: 1st Meal - Protein shake Workout - 60 min spin class 2nd Meal - Nutz Over chocolate Luna Bar 3rd Meal - Chili dog - no bun 4th Meal - Chili with Beans I keep chugging away... Nina

Laurel, Like Josie, I love spinning. I take it at the local YMCA here in Houston, check your local Y's as well. Also, like Josie suggested, the padded bike shorts really help and you can also get a gel seat cover (Schwinn) - they are less than $20 at the local sporting goods store. Josie, You are such an inspiration! Nina

June bandster here!! June 5th with Dr. Sweeney (St. Lukes/Baylor - Houston). I am counting the days, but in the meantime I workout 5 days a week (3 days of spin & 2 days of HIIT and weights). I eat fairly well, high-Protein & low-carb. I do have some "carb up" days for workouts when I eat steel cut oatmeal, yams, quinoa, brown rice. I have to attend 1 pre-op class which I am sure that covers many of the things they have already told me. I have 1 more visit with the nutritionist. I have a 2 week pre-op diet of Protein shakes. The dr. suggests Carnation Instant Breakfast (sugar-free), Slim-Fast Optima or Slim-Fast High Protein. I want to thank you guys for the motivation & support! ((((THANKS)))) Nina

Doddie, You are so right. I decided that I would only tell the people that were closest to me (mom, sister, daughter, & best friend). I realized that even those people can surprise you with their reactions. I believe that some of it is jealousy. The disheartening part is that these are the same people that witness your struggle. For me it has been my weight & in the last couple of years, my blood pressure. I workout at least 5 days a week and eat fairly well, but I know that I will get "the easy way out" reaction eventually. It's great to have this site with people that are supportive and compassionate. Nina