LovinSoul

222.3 this morning...

Like the skinny fingers comment, looking forward to resizing my rings. I'm wearing plastic tubing resizers on all my good jewelry and just want it to fit but want to wait 'til I'm at goal.

At first I was concerned about the whole "not being recognized" phenomenon. I've found it has become a real rush for me depending upon how the person "recognizing" me approaches me. I've found it mostly happening in the gym and in general people are sincerely impressed with the work I've done and how it's changed me. That's a big NSV! Occasionally I get someone who notices but was previously a person who "looked through me" (the whole invisible obese person thing). That usually pisses me off, like I want to say "buzz off, you didn't care before....get your sideshow thrills elsewhere."

I sort of agree with @@woo woo. I come from a generation when bra straps showing was a no no, fashion-wise. While I don't think the bra looks bad, I don't think it looks "classy" or elegant. So IMHO, if you're cool with it and feel comfortable in it, go for it. I don't think the major fashion houses would give it the thumbs up though.....LOL

My chin and upper lip hair was much more pre-op. I still have it but now it seems finer and slower to grow. I usually pluck it but my sister is using some kind of epilator that I might check into. I just wanted to mention though that my step-daughter works in a spa as an aesthetician (facials, etc) and she told me that laser treatment can help with facial hair that is more "normal" colored but won't do squat for the white bristles. I have some of that going on, so I just pluck the ones that still come in. Like I said, much less than when I was 95 pounds heavier. I don't have anything to back this up but I think it's because less fat means less hormone production. (cause fat cells do this along with your ovaries, etc.)

Very much agree with this and my experience is similar.

I'm like @@Miss Mac. I am 60 and had literally no libido due to low self esteem and all the physical blocks to enjoying sex when I was much heavier. Now, my new fitness, better self-esteem and self-image, are making me want to have sex much more often! Hubby is ecstatic! Downside: an old issue from my younger years has reared it's ugly head. Constantly have to fight off UTIs. Anyway, I do think hormones have a lot to do with it. You know, fat cells have a lot to do with how much estrogen is in our bodies because they produce it (or so I think I read). Maybe losing fat affects the level of that hormone and can lead to libido issues? Dunno but it's worth a question to your doc.

Me too! I may be older and very happily married but I can still appreciate the tingly feeling dancing with a young, handsome two-stepping cowboy....Yay for you. I agree you need to two step on back to that bar. LOL

Yes....it is amazing that friends are so interested and conversant about weight loss with me now. They want to know what the "tricks" are and same as you, when I talk about getting high protein/low carb in, and logging food, they mostly find reasons why that is too much work or why it won't work for them. Oh well....we were there once. Best to just let it go, I guess. Everyone's journey is personal.

Loved your blog! The list was terrific and I am so thrilled to say I've already experienced a lot of those NSV's! It really is those victories that make this journey so joyful!

Yes...you're in the three week stall! I stalled there and it lasted for six weeks for me. Called my NUT and she said keep up the Protein, add 100 calories of "good fats" (olive oil, avocado, etc.), stick with the program. I started losing again at about 8 weeks out. I DID lose inches during my stall, though. I think during that time I was burning fat and buildng a lot of muscle which weighs more than the same volume of fat. Adding muscle is very important to in order to get your metabolism burning better. So maybe try not to focus for the moment on the pounds and more on overall fitness? If you stay the course, it will come off eventually! Keep up the great work. 19 lbs. in a couple of weeks is totally excellent!

Very easy for me to say 10 mos post-op, but try not to worry at this stage. You will definitely feel your restriction when you start adding denser Proteins and more whole veggies. Relax and enjoy this "big weight loss time". It's time to feel truly successful!

Start wt...223 GW...210

I just posted on another thread....sorry to be redundant....but I happen to love Isopure Zero Carb Creamy vanilla Whey Isolate powder. There probably are a lot of good brands but I like this because it's higher Protein, no carb and versatile. One flavor can be used to create lots of good shakes. Preop you can't do all the ingredients in the following, but I used the simpler recipes, all using one flavor of Protein Powder. I agree with @NORCALRN. Lots of crushed ice helps alot! banana Egg Nog 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or Water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1 banana chunk (2” frozen) 1/8 tsp freshly grated nutmeg 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Mocchachino 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1/2 tsp instant espresso 2 tsp cocoa powder 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! chocolate Peanut Butter Cup 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1/2 tsp cocoa powder 1 tsp peanut butter 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Banana Peanut Butter Cup 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1 frozen banana 1 tbsp peanut butter 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Cookies and Cream 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 2 sugar-free chocolate cream-filled sandwich cookies 1 tbs Cool Whip 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Pina Colada 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 2 pineapple chunks (1" frozen) 1/2 tsp pure coconut extract 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Creamy Banana 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1 banana chunk (2" frozen) 1/4 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy!

Couldn't say it better than @@jess9395

Your post is a riot! Yes, it is nuts info from the NUTS! But I also have to agree that I chose my doc for good reasons so I just chose to follow the plan. I also was scared to bring any complications on, like you! I must admit in all honesty, I pushed the timeframe just a little. Probably started adding some easily digested proteins and veggies a little sooner than was recommended, but in very, very small amounts and only the healthy stuff. I healed beautifully. Hang in. Very soon you'll have the good nutritious stuff you are craving. Good luck!

My routine is wake up, drink some Water. 30 minutes later I have some yogurt and fruit or a Protein shake. do laundry or computer tasks while I digest. Get to the gym 30-60 minutes later.

That's interesting! I love the Isopure Zero Carb vanilla powder. I'm including some recipes I got from the Isopure site except I use one scoop of powder instead of two in the shakes. These might be more for when you can add a little fruit, etc. When I was preop I made the simpler recipes that didn't have fruit. My husband even likes them and he's not even trying to lose or anything. I always make them with skim milk. banana Egg Nog 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or Water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1 banana chunk (2” frozen) 1/8 tsp freshly grated nutmeg 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Mocchachino 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1/2 tsp instant espresso 2 tsp cocoa powder 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! chocolate Peanut Butter Cup 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1/2 tsp cocoa powder 1 tsp peanut butter 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Banana Peanut Butter Cup 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1 frozen banana 1 tbsp peanut butter 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Cookies and Cream 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 2 sugar-free chocolate cream-filled sandwich cookies 1 tbs Cool Whip 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Pina Colada 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 2 pineapple chunks (1" frozen) 1/2 tsp pure coconut extract 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy! Creamy Banana 1/2 cup of milk, soy milk, rice milk or water 1 scoop of Zero Carb Isopure Creamy Vanilla Powder 1 cup of ice cubes 1 banana chunk (2" frozen) 1/4 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Directions: Combine milk or water, Isopure and ice cubes in blender on high for 30 seconds. Then add additional ingredients and blend again for 30 seconds. Enjoy!

What brand shakes are you drinking? Using milk or Water or a premixed type? What's the issue? I was somewhat gassy from two to three shakes a day, but it wasn't horrible.

Oh...regarding salads and cooked veggies. Salads are tough at first. But I probably eat a small one every other day. I put lots of veggies in it and go easy on the lettuce. The lettuce fills me fast. Spinach salad is more digestible for me. If you cook veggies soft at first they will probably be fine (broccoli, green Beans, squash, just about anything was okay for me fairly soon after I introduced the foods back in.)

I was about 6 weeks post-op when I started adding "normal foods" but did not add bread or other starchy foods, rice, potatoes, Pasta until a little later. I had surgery on Sept 30, 2014 and on Thanksgiving ate my first small meal that contained more starchy carbs. I got right back on the wagon the next day. It has been fine, though. I avoid the carbs and if I want a slice of pizza once in awhile, I have it. I had it last night in fact, first time in a few months, though. Like many others, I find that I now don't enjoy some of the foods I used to love as much as I do some of the healthier choices. I do still like my Protein smoothies and generally have one for lunch or Breakfast. I have some really good recipes that often include a small portion of frozen fruit and lots of ice to make them frosty. I like the Isopure Zero Carb vanilla Protein powder. Very versatile and can be used in lots of recipes, even a chocolate shake if you use cocoa powder in it. Be careful in the beginning. Dense protein and things like rice, pasta and bread will fill you VERY fast and cause great discomfort if you eat just a bit too much. But no worries, you will be able to eat most of what you like, you just won't be able to eat as much and will generally lose and maintain better if you cut carbs, limit fats to the "good ones", and keep your protein intake up. (and fluids in of course).

I'm with mostly everyone else. No, I don't miss food because I seem to be able to have mostly what I want in moderation and do pretty strictly limit all the white foods...bread, pasta, potatoes, etc. And I have found great choices on many restaurants 'light' menus. I don't miss foods, but I must admit I miss being able to eat a lot of favorite foods at a meal sometimes. Like, I love good beef steak sometimes and miss being able to eat more or it, but in the big picture it's a small sacrifice for feeling, looking and being soooo much better and healthier!

Congrats! I'm sitting at 94 lost and looking for 100. You are inspiring me!

It is so sad that sometimes we don't get the support we need, but I mostly chalk it up to ignorance. I guess sometimes people are purposely unsupportive, but I truly think that when one goes through VSG the real problem is that those around you (especially women in your circle of close friends and family) have great difficulty adjusting to the idea that you are going to be different physically in relation to them. For example, my sister and a few close women friends of mine were always thinner than me until recently. While they've all been supportive of my choice, they are clearly feeling like I'm "winning" a race that I'm not even running. It's so not a competition, but I think we all have that tendency to compare ourselves. All of a sudden, everyone who is close to me is exercising and asking questions about how I eat and what I eat, as if they want my secret tips. So, maybe it's understandable when we feel a little lack of support. The key, IMO, is to remember it's their issue and not let them get inside your victory to undermine it. I get the best support right here on this forum.

I have a different kind of problem. I was always small breasted (cup size) but wide (46 or 48 at my biggest). Now to find a bra that fits is a challenge. I'm a 40A and still decreasing in band size.....nearly impossible to find. Leading Lady has some good choices if anyone out there has a similar problem. I'm hoping once I get to 38 and under band size my dilemma will go away. Still have the deflation/skin at the sides issue like everyone else, though.