MomInCanada

Hi Grimzy, I have not had ESG yet (I had my consult and I'm approved, so my next step is to schedule it) so I don't have any advice as someone who has gone through the process, BUT I think I know a thing or two about the frustration of not losing weight, so I wanted to send some thoughts. This may be something you considered but have you looked at how clothes are fitting/measurements because you may have lost but the scale may not be moving. Second, I have done a lot of research and the main thing I keep reading is to eat slow and really watch out for when you're full - so often our heads tell us to keep eating and you may be eating more than you think you are. Lots of people on this forum talk about water consumption, so that may be something to look out for? Finally, maybe consider taking a break from the scale, going back to basics on what you are eating (ie - look at the diet the doctor gave you and being strict) and see if your head isn't getting in the way. Can you tell that I have been talking to a counsellor about emotional eating? It has been eye opening (and at times, really uncomfortable) and I highly, highly recommend it. That may be something you consider moving forward, if it didn't come with your procedure. On that note, do you mind sharing who did the procedure? I am going to have mine done by Dr. Marvin out of Houston, who has the most information on the procedure, diet, etc. posted online of anyone that I found (I'm sure that many other centres give lots of information to their patients, but I was impressed that Dr. Marvin has all of the information available to the public). There is a very good outline of what to eat, etc. that may give you some ideas. Here's some things to keep in mind: while an expensive undertaking, and hasn't (yet) given you the results you hoped for, I bet that you are eating healthier foods and are more mindful of what you eat. Think about how you will feel a year from now with those changes. With some time, you may find that the weight comes off slowly BUT it will probably stay off, because you have been mindful and made lasting changes. I wish you all the best!

Hi Hope4momof4! Thanks so much for your response - it was really helpful. Really good tip to take all of the meds. Will keep posting as I work toward this and hopefully can start GIVING advice rather than just ASKING!

Patricia, how do you feel today? I hope much better! On the topic of feeling better, I have a question. I will be scheduling my ESG soon. The best date would mean that 6 days later I would be chairing a fairly large conference. While not physically strenuous, I will be speaking throughout/need to pay attention, etc. For those who have been through this, would I be crazy to have the ESG so close to the event? And one more question - since I have to travel, I think I will go by myself and use the nursing services available through the program. Will that be enough support for the first day after the procedure? Many, many thanks to everyone for responding - it really is great to hear from those who have been through this.

Good luck Ashleigh! I have a phone consultation scheduled for April 2 to get the ball rolling with Dr. Marvin and I can't wait to get started myself! I will be watching your progress and rooting for you.

Hi everyone. I have read all of the various topics on ESG and have really appreciated all of the information. I have a phone consultation on Monday and still have some questions, so if anyone is willing to send some input I would really appreciate it! Some background: I live in Canada and ESG isn't offered here (and I don't qualify for any other surgery in Canada) so I am going to head to the US and pay out of pocket. I am speaking with Dr. Marvin of Houston Surgical - I was very impressed with their program and it seems like he has a lot of experience. I would like to lose about 50 pounds but would be content between 30-40. Here is what I cannot wrap my head around: if ESG reduces the stomach and you continue to only take in a very limited amount of calories, why does weight loss stall/stop around 18-20% (according to the info I have read? Any thoughts? I have reviewed the post-procedure diet, which seems eminently manageable; however, on some of the posts I have read that people follow a ketosis diet. Has this been recommended to anyone? Finally, my plan is to tell my husband only. I think I can work around the "liquid/pureed" period of time, but I need to come up with an explanation to others on why I am eating so much less than before (AND, probably more frequently, explain why I drink less wine!). Does anyone have any great explanations other than: I'm really watching my portions and being more mindful? Thank you to anyone who answers - I'm very grateful. If you have any other unrelated tips, I welcome those too!

TexSlim and Hope4mom - thank you so much for your responses! I truly appreciate your input and suggestions. My phone consultation with Dr. Marvin had to be rescheduled because he's in the OR, so I'm hoping for a new consult soon. Once I have it, I will post any answers to my questions (and others - I have LOTS of questions) to help anyone else out there contemplating this procedure. When the office emailed to say that the consult had to be rescheduled I was disappointed, which I am taking as a sign that I really am ready for this. Thanks again - what a great forum we all have to share information and inspiration. How lucky are we to have it!