ljones4521

That's awful they wouldn't give you fills! I have never heard of such. Congrats.

I am in Maryland; but wanted to congratulate you on 31 pounds lost in two months! Great job!

Nice job. What were/are your stats? How long did it take you to lose the weight? and how long have you kept it off? Congrats...you look awesome!

Have you considered the egg fast diet? It's been known to break through plateaus. Also, considering most diets are low carb, we have to ensure we have enough of the healthy fats in our diet. I start my day with a golden milk (I use unsweetened vanilla hemp milk and add just under a teaspoon of cocoa, 1/2 tsp cardamom, 1/2 tsp nutmeg). This provides me with about 14gms of healthy fats.

Please take a look at my plans and provide feedback. I have been banded for years and am having a hard time recommitting and losing weight. For the last month, I have been following a paleo diet with much success other that the fact I did not realize I needed to take in more fats. My son wants me to drink my Protein rather than eating it so to appease him I will try to switch to drinking 3- 4 unjury Protein shakes. Will supplement calories with bulletproof coffee and fat bombs (coconut oil, butter, cream cheese) and one big salad with oil/vinegar a day to get the veggies in as well as one green smoothie. The smoothie will probably exceed my targeted carb intake of 35gms/day, but since I swing kettelbells daily (300 swings) I think the extra carbs will be burned fast. How does that sound? Please provide critiques to help me jumpstart my weight loss. I remember we were supposed to take in protein. Protein was big, but I can't remember any discussions about animal fats and/or healthy fish oil/krill fats. Please help Thanks

lisacaron, Yes! It seems I can finally see a plan formulating. I decided to tackle the exercise aspect first as I knew this would be the hardest for me. Fortunately, I have finally found a piece of equipment that meets my needs and I absolutely love, love, love. I have my bells in my living room and bedroom and swing them intermittently during the day. Regrettably, there is so much clutter on the web its hard for people to really learn how to swing a kettle bell properly. Thanks all for the help. I think I overshot both my Protein intake and calorie intake. I will know if that is true in a month or so.

2muchfun I completed my profile as suggested. I really like the new layout. It's very nice. To answer your question regarding fat bombs. They are basically "deserts" or appetizers that are high in animal fats. I tend to consume coconut oil, grassfed butter and occasionally avocado oil. You may read more here and if you do a quick search on Pinterst lots of recipes pop up with links to various websites. http://www.homemademommy.net/2013/03/bacon-berb-cream-cheese-dip-aka-savory-fat-bomb.html

Stilldreamin537 Thanks! Especially the one ounce meals. I have a kitchen scale that is gathering dust. This might really help. I have been really laxed in the protein intake and I am sure this is where my failure lies. Not that I was trying to, but I was only taking in about 25 - 28g of protein a day. I would take the entire day to eat one salmon steak. I think it is imperative I supplement with unjury shakes.

Lisacaron, good point. Maybe the fats are not as important considering the Protein will be ingested in liquid form. I think I will eliminate the fat bombs, as the fat from my meats should cover that. I plan to slowly reintroduce my solids in two weeks and transition back to an all solid diet. As far as having done it before....I am just attempting to return to the diet typically prescribed shortly after one is banded. From memory we usually started with Water and liquids/jello. And then we moved to protein. Many of us had to drink unjury to get in enough protein because eating it seemed impossible. During those initial weeks the weightless was jumpstarted. Because I have been pretty much in 'maintenance mode' I want to return to the basics so I can figure out my new body. But what I don't want to do is cut the calories too low and go into starvation mode. I did this about two months ago strictly by mistake. I was consuming about 600 calories a day. I simply wasn't hungry. So, I am more aware now of the fact I need to eat, but eat clean. I doubled my calorie intake to 1200 - 1400/day but that may be too much....again, I can't remember where I was supposed to be nor the guidelines. Based on feedback I think I will drop the daily calories and consume about 65g of protein which should be two Unjury shakes and salmon salads. As it relates to carbs, I have been fortunate that over the years my love affair with them has been basically broken. I never thought the day would come but I can take two bites of cheesecake/ice cream/cookies etc and be satisfied. Over the years and primarily because of my daughter I have shifted my carb intake from processed foods to vegetables and fruits. Because I now want to lose the weight, I am cutting the fruit during my journey, but will continue with the veggies. Thnx much

Catfish 87, Thanks for including that link! It includes the information I am looking for which is a targeted number of Proteins I should aim for and fat. BTW please don't think I was asking anyone to assume the role of a professional. I am asking for support and for those who are willing to share information they have amassed. From there I will interpret and apply for ME. To answer your question, no I have not had a follow up with a WLS during that time nor have I been concerned with losing weight. My daughter was born 3 months prematurely and required 3 years of serious therapies. The last few years have been spent closing the educational gap for her. During the last month I have been able to turn the attention to myself and started working out by swinging kettle bells and studying what I have been eating. I have maintained the weight loss since 2006, but am now interested in returning to the weight loss stage, rather than maintenance. It is in this area I am was seeking guidance.

2muchfun, Thanks much, but I am well informed as to how the band works. I have read scientific journals regarding the project and attend two surgeries to view the application of the device. LOL. What I am attempting to resolve is tweaking how many calories and macronutrients I should consume daily. I am returning to the initial prescribed food of Protein for a few weeks in an attempt to JUMP START MY METABOLISM AND WEIGHT LOSS and then will return to solids slowly. As previously stated I can't remember what the beginning guidelines were as I have been banded for many years. I initially loss 30+ pounds and then became pregnant. I have maintained that weight loss for seven years. I know am attempting to get serious about the weight loss and trying to put together a plan to do so. My approach is to return to the basics and that is where I have turned to you guys for answers and/or support. I am desperately trying to ascertain how much protein is within acceptable limits, how many calories etc. I know when on a low carb/high protein diet (ketogenic) it is important to take in healthy animal fats hence the fat bombs (will keep me satiated and helps the body metabolize in the absences of carbs). I doubt returning to the basics for a period of two or three weeks will be detrimental. You mentioned 1200 calories was too high. Based on your knowledge, what number should I shoot for? I don't want to put my body into starvation mode. The green smoothies and salad will ensure take in all of my greens and fruits for the day. BTW I am tracking everything on myfitnespal. Thnx much PS Thnx for sharing the videos. Very thoughtful. I am eating more like 3/4 cups of food at a sitting.

No, I haven't been back to Mexico to see the surgeon. I haven't seen a surgeon since 2006 just before I learned I was pregnant with my daughter. My band seems to work as in the morning it is typically tightest. If I eat too fast or don't chew it will come back up. By mid afternoon its better and I can eat pretty normally with the exception I must still be diligent about chewing my meats very well. Right now I am interested in starting over and trying to jump start my weight loss. Paleo served me well. Was never hungry but lost minimal weight. So, I want to go back to the beginning and then slowly re-introduce solids. Based on what I have posted, am I shooting for the right amount of calories (1200), Protein and fats? This is the area where I think I may have lost my way. I want to ensure that I have adequate protein so I do not forego muscle mass, especially considering the workouts I now do daily (kettle bells are intense). Based on the above meal plan does it seem reasonable? Does the above intake seem reasonable for someone who is new to the lap band? I have maintained my weight for seven years and now want to return to the beginning to get the scale moving. Thnx

I have't any advice to offer but can tell you I find myself very frustrated with my progress on a ketogenic diet. I have been working out fait fully swinging kettle bells (300 a day swing challenge), eliminated carbs (less than 25g/day), drink my Water, ea meats and veggies and am never ever hungry....making it even more difficult to eat. I have not be diagnosed as diabetic but my morning blood sugar readings are 110 and this is first thing in the morning when I have't eaten for 12+hrs. I am not losing any weight, in fact I have regained 2 lbs of the 10 lbs I lost and now have stalled for two weeks not losing anything despite working out and staying in ketosis. What am I to do about the increasing blood sugar readings? Why can't I lose weight? Its all very frustrating.

Well, I too fell off in 2006, when I learned I was pregnant with my daughter. Had dropped 30+ pounds. I have managed to keep the weight off but still need to drop yet another 75pounds. My problem is I can't remember what I was supposed to be eating. I am remember Protein shakes. Before I lost because I remain connected with the online community. I think was key. Well, I am starting today trying to get back on track.

Hello fellow bandsters, I feel compelled to share my experience yesterday. Yesterday I had my first fill with Dr. Susan Brinkley. The procedure itself was uneventful. She numbs you which feels like a little sting and then she fills you. I didn't feel anything after the numbing. Now, if you are wondering why I am writing, I am writing becuase it was 'her' that was so different as well as the office. I had to drive nearly an hour for the appointment and it was worth every minute. The office is decorated with household furnishings, not the furniture you find in office catalogs. Nope it was the sort of furniture you would find in any country furniture store. Even the examination room is decorated comfortably. There are pictures of horses, stars and little angels in the room. There is even a big comfortable chair you sit in and wait to see the doctor. You remain in this chair (fully clothed) to discuss your concerns and in general get to know her. I absolutely loved this. I just loved it. I hate being practically naked when a doctor enters the room to examine me. Then all they do is look at the stupid chart, ask me what's wrong as if they are interested, half listen then immediately start the exam. They are in and out in 5 minutes. Well, not with Dr. Brinkley. I can't really say how long she was in there but I can assure you I never felt like she had anywhere else to go. It was a great experience. In fact it was the second such experience. The first was in Mexico with Dr. Rodriguez. At any rate I mentioned the above things and she tells me it is her philosophy not to meet her patients with their clothes off (if it could be helped). She remembers her first exam experience and doesn't want to do it like that. I am almost done. The other unique thing is after she got to know me and I her, she educated me about how to compute a fill amount (something about r2 (r square), hyperbole, etc)and th elast thing that impressed me is her down to earth dress. She wore jeans, a shirt and just looked like someone's sister or close friend. All in all I am so happy I drove to Frederick, MD and did not return to Mexico (she accepts Mexcio patients and even had her procedure performed in Mexico). I saved a bundle and walked away with a wonderful experience. I am not affiliated witht the office in any way. They do not have any sort of referral program that I am aware of. I just wanted to share my experience so other Mexico banded patients are aware o their options.

Hi everyone, It has been several years since I was banded and I am so ashamed to admit that I haven't lost the amount of weight I should have. In fact I have lost about 35lbs. Managed to keep it off. During this time I got pregnant and have since given birth two years ago. I want to start my weight loss again but can't find the area of the site that discusses how to get started. I can't remember how much Protein I am supposed to ingest. There is so much going on on the site that I am just lost. Please help. Thanks,

Please include me as well. I was banded in 2005 and fell off hte bandwagon when I learned I was pregnant. My daughter is now 2 and I need to get this weight off so I can out run her on the playground.

Boy is this the right thread for me. I too have only lost a "few" pounds since being banded in 2005. My daughter just turned two and made me realized I need to get back on the ball. I am trying to navigate the site to figure out what I am supposed to eat. I need to figure out how much Protein to ingest....I think this was the key to most others weight loss. Then I need to get another fill. I can still eat sandwiches and pizza (provided I chew and eat slowly, but I can still eat them).

This story sounds as if it could apply to me. I had the band in 2005, I believe. Lost weight without a fill. Shortly afterwards I became preganant, gave birth and then finally went in for a fill. Problem is I have forgotten what I should be eating to get the weight loss moving. I know we have some sort of Protein drink that is supposed to be good. The good thing is I am not gaining weight but it is high time I lose weight.

I don't see any reason why Dr. Rickford wouldn't allow you to self pay. It just means he gets his money faster. My experience with Dr. Rodriguez was fine; however, you should be aware that Acuna is not a "rich" town. Police walking the streets with automatic type rifles. Very scary. After my surgery they came into the hospital looking for someone. Dr. Rodriguez was perfect. His staff was perfec.t Haven't had an ounce of trouble with my band. You can also consider Susan Brinkley for fills. Dr. Rickford at Providence was great. Glad to have met him.

Carrie, I just left Dr. Rickford's office in DC at Providence Hospital. He did the fill under flouroscopy. I too am a Mexico patient. Banded 12/2005. I was self pay at the time; however, we now have health insurance and his office billed Blue Cross/Blue Shield on my behalf. BTW I live right down the street from you in Hanover, MD just across the streeet from Arundel Mills Mall. Lisa

could this lead to a slippage or anything? I keep trying to stop them but they keep coming. I am like holding my breath, drinking Water, breathing into the stupid paper bag and nothing will stop them. They just came out of the blue. Please tell me this is not the same thing as pbing. Thanks

I live in Anne Arundel County. Was banded a few years ago, but haven't really lost any weight. I took my time about getting my first fill and then shortly thereafter I became pregnant. My daughter is now 10 months old and I am working on losing the weight. Have about 60 lbs to lose, so I figure I should be at my goal next year this time. Feel free to PM if you ever need to talk. Lisa

Hi everyone, It has been a little while since my last post as I was out busy being pregnant....and...gaining a few pounds. Well, I was due on April 24, 2007 but gave birth on January 24, 2007 to a beautiful 2lb 5oz baby girl. She was 27 wks (currently 3 wks old and 30 wks gestation), 14" long and healthy for a 27 wkr. I had to have an hysterectomy at the time of the procedure due to complete placenta previa and placenta increta. Fortunately, I have lived to tell all about it and now gearing up to lose a few, very few pounds during the next few months (I breastfeed so I can't really focus on losing weight). I hope to lose 5lbs a month which should have me at my goal weight in a year. BTW I only gained 10 lbs during the 6 months I was pregnant!!! I was so excited as I'd be willing to bet I gained 10 lbs a month during my previous pregnancy. Now, for the really good news. I have lost all of the weight. My daughter was only 2lbs so I am not sure where the other 8lbs came from. I am pretty close to my pre-pregnancy weight. I am currently 197. My sons can't believe how "small" I am. I must have been really big in their eyes. Forgot to mention that I didn't have any problems with my band. Of course I didn't go the full course so can't be quite sure what I would have experienced if I had made it full term. The only difference I noticed was/am quite restricted in the morning. The only thing that really goes down safely are liquids and really well chewed eggs. That's it. At any rate I'm back and can't wait to lose weight! Lisa Renee in MD You can visit Jennifer Renee's CaringBridge site at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jenniferneely