PorkChopExpress

Getting some fluid removed from your band is a good first step. In the meantime, try sleeping with your head elevated and avoiding trigger foods like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy stuff. If the Prilosec isn't cutting it, maybe talk to your doctor about a stronger medication.

I think a lot of us have that number in the back of our minds. If you're feeling good and healthy, that's what really matters. But if you want to push for that healthy BMI, go for it

Costa Rica sounds like a beautiful place to start this journey. You've got a lot of life experience and passions, and it sounds like you're mentally ready for this, which is huge.

I totally get the dilemma of needing presentable clothes for work events while knowing your size will change dramatically soon. Before my own weight loss journey, I stuck to versatile, forgiving pieces like stretchy trousers and flowy tops to accommodate size changes. For events, I’d often invest in just one or two classic items from affordable stores or clearance racks. It helped me feel polished without breaking the bank. If you’re into bags and accessories, though, they’re a great way to elevate any outfit, regardless of size changes. I’ve always loved browsing product roundups for timeless options like Coach bags and accessories. They make even simple outfits feel more put-together.

I love weekends because I know we're going to watch movies with my husband) a beer and a chip go perfectly. We choose something on 123 Movies and we rest after a hard week of work.

What vitamins do you use? and do you need it from a specific store? I use the German ones, I think they are the most effective and good at the price. So discovered promo codes for premium German vitamins and supplements here.

Good on you for taking that first step, it’s not easy to admit when something’s become a problem. It sounds like you’re really determined to turn things around, and joining AA is a solid move.

Congrats on the hoodie.

Medicare costs and requirements can vary depending on your specific plan (Part A, B, C, or D) and your income level. Part A is premium-free if you’ve paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, while Part B has a monthly premium and deductible. Eligibility generally requires being 65 or older or qualifying through disability or specific medical conditions.

I don't believe that Vaping will somehow influence your health before and after surgeon. In your case scenario you should better speak with a doctor.

Well, the surgeon had to make the decision to switch me from Roux-en-y to vertical sleeve gastrectomy, but the surgery was done successfully yesterday and I'm at home recouperating now. Still trying to get rid of the last of the very uncomfortable gas, but I feel okay. Not very interested in putting anything in my stomach right now, but I'm trying to get fluids and Protein shakes down...it's just VERY slow going. I get at most maybe 2oz done per hour right now. As the gas pain and general discomfort subside, I'm sure it'll get easier. Unfortunately, apparently the mesh that a prior surgeon used to repair an umbilical hernia was the wrong type, and resulted in my intestines scarring into the mesh such that he couldn't do anything without risking damage to my intestine, so he made the judgment call. I'm glad for that, I don't want complications if I can help it. It's just a bummer because that's what I've been feeding my brain with for over a year and I haven't really read up on VSG, though I imagine it's going to be much the same, behavior-wise. Anyway, I'm glad to have it behind me and now I just want to make a full recovery and get on with this business of losing weight and getting fit. On a side note, my pre-surgery weight was 351.2 - I lost over 35 pounds leading up to surgery. Not bad!

The honeymoon seems to be nearing its end. I am at a point now where I feel like my portion sizes are satisfying both physically and mentally, even though people still ask if I'm getting enough to eat (when they don't know I have had surgery), or if something is wrong. I don't need to follow the rule of not drinking before I eat, however I do still have to refrain during and after, for about 30-40 minutes. My average calorie intake now is probably around 1,800...and my TDEE is somewhere around 2,800 without extra exercise. So I'm generally in a 7,000 calorie deficit every week, which manifests in an average of 2 pounds lost per week...however I do experience plateaus that last a couple weeks. Now I'm interested in gradually increasing my caloric intake as I lift weights, to support regaining my lost muscle mass. I've lost a TON of muscle, through this process. However, having taken off around 135lbs so far, exercise is WORLDS easier now. Overall, I'm feeling very positive about being able to take it the rest of the way, on my own steam. The surgery has enabled me to get within spitting distance of my goals and it no longer feels like a giant mountain to climb, but a reasonable hill. On a side note, my wife just came home yesterday after having followed in my footsteps, by getting the gastric bypass. So she's about to experience the process, as well. I'm glad I went first, so give her support and advice while speaking from experience.

I am about nine months post-op now and if I really wanted to, I could probably get over 2,000+ calories a day if I really wanted to, but that's really down to food choices and not volume. The good thing is, I'm now only about 55 pounds away from my goal weight and I find controlling my intake FAR easier now...and 55 pounds seems so do-able on my own steam, that I don't care if my "honeymoon period" is about to come to a close. I can take it from here, for sure.