gentlespirit

I had my gallbladder out about 20 years ago and had no problems with the lapband surgery. I was concerned about the Water drinking because I'm prone to bladder infections and have to drink a lot of water...I have no problem drinking a glass every 15-30 minutes just like before. Emily

I LOVE the unjury Protein powders...just ordered 6 containers of the chocolate flavor. I put one scoop of it in my Magic Bullet with 8 oz. of skim milk, whiz for 10 seconds, and that's my Breakfast every morning. The unflavored is also good in almost anything...I usually whiz it with a small glass of orange juice and alternate that with my chocolate. Emily

I really like the unjury Protein powder and mix the chocolate with skim milk to drink on the way to work...or I like the unflavored mixed with a small glass of orange juice, too. I've tried other brands that I REALLY didn't like, so I think I'll stick to unjury. They charge only $5 shipping no matter how much you order, so my sister and I order together. Emily

I am really conscious of what I'm eating, but it does seem as if the poor choices go down better some days! I have a hard time eating any meat or chicken but cheetos usually go down OK! Having said that, I gave up chocolate completely a couple of weeks ago and am down 9 pounds, so now it seems worth the deprivation and I'll keep on. It's too easy to eat "a little" that turns into a lot. I was getting REALLY frustrated and depressed because I had been at the same weight for 8 months, but hopefully now the scale will keep moving again. Emily

I love the morningstar farms chicken nuggets...with some tartar sauce to help them slide down. Great Protein source. I also use the sausage links...used to love the sausage patties but have been afraid to try them since banding...I'll have to try now. Emily

I take 20 mg Lexapro and 300 mg Wellbutrin daily...seems to work for me. When I was banded they had to switch my 300 mg wellbutrin tab for 2 150 mg ones because the lower dose was smaller. I feel like the combination of the two meds has given me back myself. Emily

I had one until I lost it but plan to get another. My surgeon thinks it's a good idea... Emily

I love the viactive chewable chocolate cherry Multivitamins...they are like my treat for the day! I'm trying to figure out how to incorporate fish oil into my diet, but maybe I'll wait after that post!!! Anyone have any ideas how to get it in without this type of experience?? Emily

I'm so glad that legally, at least, most of the hardest part is behind you. That's not to say that this will be easy, as you already know. Someone who posted earlier suggested having your lawyer nip the payment deferment in the bud...sounds like a good idea to me if she can do it. I was divorced 12 years ago (my choice) and have gone through years of no child support and am now getting $50 per month, which I'll be getting till I'm in the nursing home at this rate. If she can keep him on the straight and narrow about tending to his obligations from the start, it will be easier than trying to "catch up" later. You have been in my thoughts often, even when I haven't been here for a long time. Congratulations on making it through a really tough time. We are stronger than we give ourselves credit for! Best of luck as you continue your journey, and may the rest be more joyful! Emily

I wish you were close enough for a hug...we all need them sometimes. And I also eat for emotional reasons, so I understand what you're going through. The band has helped me, as Molly said, not to fall TOO far from where I should be because it makes it physically impossible to just stuff myself no matter how bad I'm feeling! I've been thinking that maybe I should get back into counseling regarding why I always think eating that chocolate or whatever will help me feel better. An example: My 26 year old son was hospitalized on Friday because they thought he was having a heart attack. He has Type I diabetes which predisposes for cardiac problems and we were really stressed out as they were preparing him for the cardiac angiogram. So while he was having that done I ate 3 candy bars...why did I think that would help?! I get really frustrated with myself, too. But I hope your counselor will be able to help you get to the root of the problem. Best of luck to you! Emily

I was banded a year ago and when they started the surgery found a hiatal hernia. The surgeon repaired it while he was there and then did the band. I have heard of quite a few people who have had both done at the same time...I'd check around for a different surgeon...I think he either isn't experienced enough or is biased and just wants people to have RNY. Good luck! Emily

Experience IS really important...hope everything goes well for you! Emily

One of my staples is refried Beans (fat free) and salsa...and even a little cheese sprinkled on top! Beans are a great source of Protein but also other nutrients, so I figure the carbs are worth it. I also eat a lot of cottage cheese and Morningstar Farms products...I really like the chicken nuggets with fat free tartar sauce to help them go down easier. I use the MSF sausages in soup, etc. Ricotta cheese is very versatile and can be used for veggie lasagna or Desserts and is a great protein source. Tofu is great and can be used a million ways...if you freeze it and then thaw and press to drain, it has a very different consistency that is more "meaty". And I have to admit that I still sometimes rely on Protein shakes if I'm in a hurry or going to be away from home. Hope this helps...good luck! Emily